Scottish independence

YouGov poll suggests majority in favour of Scottish independence

A poll ahead of Scotland’s upcoming referendum suggests the majority of voters are in favour of Scottish Independence.

RTE,

7 September, 2013

The YouGov research for the Sunday Times indicates 51% of people support independence, compared to 49% who want to remain in the UK.

The results are the latest evidence of a dramatic surge for the 'yes' campaign led by First Minister Alex Salmond, which has seen the gap between the sides decrease in a matter of months.

The two point gap is within the margin of error for such polls, meaning a genuine majority will not be known until polling day, 18 September.

YouGov has charted a remarkable turnaround for the pro-independence side, which has seen them recover from a 22 point deficit in just one month.

A second poll, carried out by Panelbase for ‘Yes Scotland’ suggested a no vote to be leading with 52% to 48% when undecided voters are excluded.

The poll, conducted between 2 September and 6 September, also found that 47% of women support independence, which ‘Yes Scotland’ says is a 13 point increase in six months.

Writing in the Sunday Mirror, former Prime Minister Gordon Brown acknowledged that the referendum battle was proving tougher than some had expected, and said it was the fault of the Tory party.

Mr Brown said that many are angry over the bedroom tax.

Labour leader Ed Miliband raised the prospect of manned border posts being introduced if Scotland votes to go independent.

In an interview with the Scottish Mail on Sunday, he insisted: "If you don't want borders, vote to stay in the United Kingdom."

Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon said "these are exceptionally positive and encouraging figures - and the Panelbase poll shows record support for independence among women.