Prime Minister Andy Burnham has indicated that a second Scottish independence referendum would only be considered if there is a "clear consensus" in Scotland, a stance consistent with the conditions for a border poll under the Good Friday Agreement.
Burnham's comments, made in response to a question from SNP MP Chris Law in Westminster, emphasized that such a referendum would be considered by the Northern Ireland Secretary when public opinion has shifted significantly to warrant it. He stated, "I am not aware that there is a majority of public support for another referendum and until that changes there won't be one."
Downing Street clarified that this statement does not represent a change in the Prime Minister's position. A spokesperson for Burnham reiterated his long-standing view that another referendum on independence is "off limits," a point he conveyed to First Minister John Swinney in their first call. The Labour Party's election manifesto also explicitly states their opposition to independence and a further referendum.
Previously, First Minister John Swinney had been informed by Burnham that a second referendum was "off limits." The comparison to the Good Friday Agreement highlights the legal and political framework surrounding such constitutional questions, requiring a demonstrable shift in public will before serious consideration is given to holding a vote.