PM would consider independence referendum if 'clear consensus' emerges

The prime minister has suggested another Scottish independence referendum could be held - if public opinion shows demand for one.

Andy Burnham previously told First Minister John Swinney that a second referendum was "off limits" .

But, speaking at Prime Minister's Questions, Burnham appeared to indicate a vote could be held if there was clear public support, comparing the situation to the conditions for a border poll in Northern Ireland.

Swinney said it was the first time since 2014 that a prime minister had "accepted that majority support for a referendum should mean one takes place."

The first minister added: "To go from 'off limits' to this is an acceptance of the reality that the people of Scotland will decide their own future - not the UK government."

Since 2014 successive UK governments have opposed any further referendums.

Scotland previously voted against becoming an independent country by 55% to 45%.

In 2022 the UK Supreme Court ruled that any further vote would require the agreement of the UK government .