Prominent Scottish independence advocates have called on the likely next UK Prime Minister, Andy Burnham, to allow a fresh referendum on Scotland’s independence. They warn against repeating what they describe as previous UK government failures by refusing to grant another vote on the issue.

Dave Doogan, the Scottish National Party’s leader in Westminster, criticised the anticipated approach of Burnham’s administration, stating that denying Scots a referendum would demonstrate a disregard for democratic principles. Doogan emphasised the SNP’s willingness to cooperate with Burnham’s government on further devolution of powers to the Scottish Parliament, but insisted that any such arrangement must include the authority to hold an independence referendum.

This appeal comes amid ongoing debates over Scotland’s political future and calls by the SNP to revisit the question of independence following significant political and social changes since the last referendum in 2014. The SNP argues that developments such as Brexit and shifting public opinion warrant a new public vote.

While the UK government, including Burnham’s camp, has yet to clarify its position on a potential referendum, these early overtures underscore tensions between Westminster and Edinburgh over the governance and constitutional status of Scotland. The situation continues to evolve as both sides prepare for potential negotiations ahead.