By Chathushka Perera
LONDON, UK (CWBN)_ It is reported that during a video conference held between Prime Minister, Boris Johnson, and MPs of the Conservative Party, representing the northern regions of England, the PM has condemned moves toward Scottish independence from London, labelling it a “disaster north of the border” and that it had been former PM Tony Blair’s “biggest mistake”.
Johnson further added that he does not see a reason to provide the government in Edinburgh further powers. Downing Street has not denied the remarks but has attempted to clarify matters, stating that “The PM has always supported devolution, but Tony Blair failed to see the rise of separatists in Scotland.”
Although in 2014, the Scottish people had voted to remain a part of the UK with 55% of votes cast in favour, the British Government’s decision to leave the European Union and its inability to finalise a trade agreement with the bloc has led to a serious fraying of London’s relationship with Edinburg, given that 62% of Scots have reportedly voted in favour of remaining in the EU.
The PM’s comments sparked outrage and condemnation among Scottish Conservatives in Westminster. Scottish Conservative Leader, Douglas Ross, stated that “the SNP’s (Scottish National Party) non-obsession with another referendum – above schools, jobs and everything else – has been a disaster.”
SNP Leader, Nicola Sturgeon, responded to the affair via Twitter, noting that the PM’s comments ought to be bookmarked “for the next time Tories say they‘re not a threat to the powers of the Scottish Parliament – or, even more incredibly, that they support devolving more powers.”
Edited by Elishya Perera
