John Swinney says he wants to ‘press on’ with independence referendum in 2028

First Minister and SNP leader John Swinney has set out his ‘expectation’ that an independence referendum could be held in 2028 if his party wins a majority at Holyrood next month (Jane Barlow/PA) -

John Swinney has said there could be an independence referendum in 2028 if the SNP wins a majority in next month’s Holyrood elections, adding he would want to “press on” with such a vote “as quickly as possible”.

The Scottish First Minister also insisted it would be “achievable” for Scotland to become an independent nation within 18 months if voters backed it in a referendum.