George Galloway sparked outrage today after he spoke out about the Scottish referendum.
The controversial political figure – who advocated for Leave during the Brexit vote – said if a second IndyRef does take place then the 795,000 Scots living elsewhere in the UK must have a vote.
In 2014 those who considered themselves Scottish living outside of the country were not able to have their say. Regardless, Scotland voted 55 per cent to remain as part of the union.
Polling
However, the latest polling by Panelbase found the results have been reversed based on current sentiment, with 55 per cent now backing an exit.
Pro-independence organisation Business for Scotland commissioned the poll, with chief executive Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp hailing the results as a “huge landmark” showing the “writing is very definitely on the wall for the union”.
He added: “The referendum that will be demanded following May 2021 Holyrood elections, on these figures, would start with Yes to independence commanding a 10 per cent lead.
“Independence is now significantly the majority decision of the people of Scotland and its momentum looks solid.”
Reaction
Galloway’s comments have caused quite a stir this morning, although Michael Gove seemed to be on board.
Interesting question https://t.co/jJnxe4fyAr
— Michael Gove (@michaelgove) August 19, 2020
John Hamill commented: “If someone had suggested to George Galloway and Michael Gove that the EU and its citizens must get a say in the Brexit vote they would have laughed at you”, while James Kelly questioned the “unholy alliance” between them.
Andrew Neil also felt compelled to offer his two penneth.
The test would be simple.
— Andrew Neil (@afneil) August 19, 2020
1. Born in Scotland.
2. On UK electoral register.
End of. https://t.co/YUszvW2O99
One person commented that having Galloway, Gove and Neil trending is like “the worst game of snog, marry, avoid ever”.
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