Swinney states a Scottish independence referendum might occur in 2014. Ten hours ago. Angus Cochrane, Senior Political Journalist at BBC Scotland. Images from Getty. First Minister John Swinney has indicated that Scotland might hold a second independence referendum by 2028. During a BBC Scotland Debate Night special at Paisley Town Hall, where he faced off against other party leaders, the SNP leader described it as “perfectly conceivable” for a constitutional vote to occur within two years. Green co-leader Ross Greer argued that Scotland’s future should be decided by Scots. Labour leader Anas Sarwar insisted the upcoming election is “not about independence,” while Conservative leader Russell Findlay called UK breakup an “unmitigated disaster.” Reform UK’s Scottish leader Malcolm Offord labeled another referendum “divisive” but didn’t dismiss it if Yes support hits 60%. Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton said he hasn’t considered a second vote, focusing instead on other priorities. The leaders, questioned by a live studio audience, also debated immigration, the NHS, and energy. A second referendum requires UK government approval, but Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has ruled it out during his tenure at Downing Street. Earlier that Sunday, Health Secretary Wes Streeting told LBC: “We’re not having one,” noting the country has endured enough chaos. Swinney told the audience Scots are “entitled” to shape their constitutional future, blaming a “constitutional logjam” that an SNP majority—achieved before the 2014 vote—could resolve. He called on voters for an “emphatic mandate” of SNP dominance to reclaim control over Scotland’s destiny, adding it’s feasible to hold a vote by 2028. Greer stated a majority of pro-independence MSPs (from Greens or SNP) in the next parliament would justify a referendum, calling Westminster’s refusal “profoundly anti-democratic” and arguing independence could address NHS and economic challenges. The BBC Scotland election debate fact-checked. Leaders debate fiercely on energy, immigration, NHS, and independence. Scotland’s key election topics in six charts. Sarwar stated that the Scottish government should prioritize repairing the NHS, creating quality jobs, constructing additional homes, and reducing living costs. He further remarked: “This election isn’t about independence—it’s about electing a government that serves the people of this country.”
