Independence the new norm in Scotland

A surge in voter confidence that Scotland is heading in the right direction has entrenched support for independence as the majority view in the country, and looks like becoming the new norm, a poll has found.

Research by YouGov for The Times found that 53 per cent of people — excluding “don’t knows” — would vote Yes in a referendum and was the fourth poll in a row to put independence ahead. It represents the highest level of support for Scottish independence recorded by the polling company.

There was a two point lead in support for Scotland taking back control from the British government in YouGov’s last poll in January, but this latest poll stretches that lead now to 6 points, which will further buoy the SNP, Greens and other pro independence supporters, particularly as it is another new polling company that has found a majority in favour of independence, the fourth one.