The Prime Minister has said he would consider allowing a second Scottish independence referendum if there was a demonstrable, "clear consensus" in favour of holding one. The comments suggest openness to considering the constitutional question under specific political circumstances rather than an outright refusal.
Earlier, Andy Burnham, the mayor of Greater Manchester, told Scotland's First Minister John Swinney that a second referendum was "off limits". The exchange highlights differing tones within the broader UK political landscape over how and when another vote on Scottish independence might be debated.
Scottish independence remains a prominent issue in UK politics, with advocates pressing for a fresh poll since the 2014 referendum that decided Scotland would remain part of the United Kingdom. Calls for a second referendum have been driven in part by political shifts since then, but questions persist over what level of public or parliamentary consensus would justify reopening the question.
The Prime Minister's conditional stance is likely to prompt renewed scrutiny from parties across the UK and in the Scottish Parliament, where leaders will assess what would constitute the kind of consensus he described. Political reactions and any formal proposals for a referendum are likely to determine whether the issue moves from debate to a concrete timetable.
For now, the exchange between the Prime Minister's conditional openness and Andy Burnham's earlier comment to John Swinney underscores the sensitivities around the timing and legitimacy of any future vote on independence. Further statements from party leaders and senior officials are expected as the debate continues.