Another party advocating secession from Britain has emerged on the Scottish political scene
Former Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond has announced the formation of a new pro-independence party ahead of May’s local parliamentary elections. The move has thrown up the political ambitions of Nicola Sturgeon and her Scottish National Party, but increases the chances of the country declaring independence.
British Prime Minister Boris Johnson has repeatedly rejected calls for a new independence vote in Scotland. A 2014 referendum is known to have shown that residents of the region prefer to remain part of the United Kingdom. However, opinion polls over the past 12 months have shown historically high support for independence. The May 6 election is seen as a crucial test for Scots.
Salmond, announcing the new party, said its aim was to maximise the number of pro-independence lawmakers.
“I believe that parliament should not have a simple majority for independence within it, but a supermajority that fundamentally changes the balance in Scotland’s favour”, – the politician said.