British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has stated that a new referendum on Scottish independence is not permitted, according to remarks made during a visit to Glasgow this week. Burnham, who assumed office on July 20, conveyed this position during a meeting with Scotland’s First Minister John Swinney on Thursday.
The prime minister indicated that pursuing another independence vote would divert attention and resources from his government’s focus on economic growth and reducing living costs. He emphasized his administration’s preference for addressing practical concerns affecting residents across all parts of the United Kingdom rather than engaging in constitutional debates.
Scotland previously held an independence referendum in 2014, when voters chose to remain in the UK by a margin of 55 percent to 45 percent. However, Scotland’s government has subsequently advocated for a second referendum, contending that circumstances have shifted significantly, particularly following the UK’s withdrawal from the European Union—a decision opposed by 62 percent of Scottish voters. The Scottish government has argued that independence could offer economic and political advantages.
Burnham has instead proposed advancing devolution measures that would grant greater local authority and autonomy to Scotland and other parts of the UK, with the aim of strengthening regional economies. Downing Street reported that Burnham acknowledged Swinney’s readiness to participate in discussions regarding devolution. The UK Supreme Court has previously determined that Scotland cannot conduct an independence referendum without Westminster’s approval, a legal constraint that remains in effect.
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