Salmond wants indyref2 as Sturgeon focuses on virus Top Story May 1, 2021 EDINBURGH: Scotland “cannot wait until next year, or the year after” for independence, Alex Salmond said as Nicola Sturgeon indicated she will not support his push for another referendum. Speaking BBC Radio 4’s Today programme on Friday, the Scottish First Minister said her “immediate focus” if re-elected next week will be on coronavirus, adding those who are “serious about independence” know the country should navigate the pandemic first, while also building support for leaving the UK among undecided voters. Salmond, the Alba Party leader and Sturgeon’s predecessor as SNP leader, said the comments highlight a difference in approach between the two parties.