RATHER than focusing on the cost-of-living crisis, the SNP are once again pressing for another divisive independence referendum. But by publishing their recent economic ‘blueprint’ for independence, the SNP have let the cat out of the bag.

The SNP’s report undermined the economic case for separation.

Nicola Sturgeon revealed that border checks between Scotland and England would be put into effect in the event of Scottish independence.

This is because EU chiefs have said that an independent Scotland would be required to join the Schengen Area and apply relevant border checks with non-Schengen countries like the UK and Ireland if it is to become a member of the EU.

Sturgeon admitted that checkpoints would be required near Gretna and Berwick – meaning goods going between North Berwick and Berwick-upon-Tweed would have to pass through customs.

Could you imagine the chaos this would create?

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This move would cost the Scottish economy at least £11 billion per year according to the London School of Economics.

The blueprint also reveals that Sturgeon is pedalling fantasy politics.

Bizarrely, she declared that Scotland could use the pound sterling and its own ‘Scottish pound’ last week. This was quickly rubbished by EU officials, who said Scotland would be required to commit to the Euro.

Independence would cost the Scottish economy up to £15.4 billion every single year. The SNP is blind to the stark and dangerous realities of independence.

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Contrast this with our new Prime Minister Rishi Sunak, who has a clear economic vision to support the people of this country.

Amid the economic storm, our nation needs level-headed leadership – not another debate on shutting Scotland out of the fifth strongest economy in the world.