Theresa May accuses Nicola Sturgeon of creating ‘uncertainty and division’ in indyref2 plan

Theresa May - PA

Prime Minister Theresa May has said First Minister Nicola Sturgeon’s plan for a second independence referendum sets Scotland on a course for “more uncertainty and division” at a time when she is attempting to form a “whole UK” approach to Brexit.

Sturgeon announced she will seek Scottish Parliament backing for a request for a section 30 order – permission from Westminster for another referendum.

She said the choice would be between Theresa May’s Brexit deal and Scotland forging its own future with the EU.

The Scottish Greens have said they will back the motion, meaning it is likely Holyrood will officially seek the power from Westminster.

But the Prime Minister responded by saying she was negotiating an agreement that “would work for the whole of the United Kingdom”.

“The tunnel vision that the SNP has shown today is deeply regrettable. It sets Scotland on a course for more uncertainty and division, creating huge uncertainty,” she said.

“This is at a time when the Scottish people, the majority of the Scottish people, do not want a second independence referendum.

“Instead of playing politics with the future of our country the Scottish Government should focus on delivering good government and public services for the people of Scotland. Politics is not a game.”

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson called Sturgeon’s announcement “utterly irresponsible”.