Scotland prepares for second independence referendum

Scotland is preparing for a second independence referendum after the United Kingdom voted to leave the European Union.

In Scotland 62% voted to stay in the EU but it was outvoted by much of England outside London.

Nicola Sturgeon, leader of the Scottish National Party, said: “We will begin to prepare the legislation that would be required to enable a new independence referendum to take place if and when parliament so decides.

“The manifesto that the SNP was elected on last month said this: 'The Scottish parliament should have the right to hold another referendum if there is a significant and material change in the circumstances that prevailed in 2014 such as Scotland being taken out of the EU against our will'.

“Scotland does now face that prospect. It is a significant and material change in circumstances and it therefore the statement of the obvious that a second referendum must be on the table and it is on the table.”

She said she will communicate with EU member states in an attempt to find a solution for Scotland staying in the union, as the UK will have two years to negotiate its exit once Article 50 of the Libson Treaty is triggered.

Sturgeon also revealed that she has spoken to Mayor of London Sadiq Kahn with whom she has “common cause” after nearly 60% in the capital voted to remain in the EU.