“Alister Jack suggests the government may permit a second referendum if sustained public backing is seen.”
The UK government could consider granting approval for a second Scottish independence referendum if public support for the idea remains consistently above 60%, according to Alister Jack, the Secretary of State for Scotland. Jack indicated that if this level of support is sustained over a prolonged period, it could provide justification for holding a fresh vote, marking a potential shift in the Conservative Party’s previously firm stance against such a referendum.
Jack’s comments come as he acknowledged that there is significant desire among the public for the opportunity to vote, though he clarified that support for a referendum does not necessarily equate to backing for independence itself. The shift in tone was welcomed by Patrick Harvie, co-leader of the Scottish Green Party, who expressed hope that this acknowledgment would pave the way for a legitimate push towards a referendum.
