The First Minister held a press conference this morning (Monday 13 March) where she announced her plans for a second Scottish independence referendum. During her announcement the FM indicated the slow progress of negotiations on Brexit has prompted her to act, announcing that Scotland should have an independence referendum before the end of the Brexit process. 

Sturgeon confirmed that she will ask Holyrood to vote on a second referendum next week. This is likely to be approved due to an SNP and Green coalition that will be formed.  Following this, negotiations will commence with the UK Government on the details of a Section 30 order to enable the referendum to take place. 

A referendum is, therefore, proposed to be held between autumn 2018 and spring 2019. As with previous referendums this will create uncertainty for businesses operating in Scotland.

If you would like to know more on how this will impact you and your business please contact Evan Williams in our Scotland office on 0131 550 3744 or [email protected].