Chancellor Rachel Reeves has ruled out a second Scottish independence referendum, insisting the UK Government will not permit another vote even if the SNP secures a majority in next May’s Holyrood election. Speaking during Thursday’s Budget promotion round, she dismissed claims that another mandate would force Westminster to reconsider.
Reeves directly challenged First Minister John Swinney’s argument that the SNP’s 2011 majority led to the 2014 referendum and therefore sets a precedent. She said that precedent no longer applies and made clear that next year’s election result will not change the UK Government’s position.
“No New Vote”
In an interview with BBC Radio Scotland, Reeves said the question was settled in 2014 and should not be reopened. She noted that the referendum was repeatedly described by former SNP leaders Alex Salmond and Nicola Sturgeon as a “once-in-a-generation” event.
When asked how long a generation lasts, she replied that it is “certainly not 12 years”. Reeves said the Scottish Government should instead focus on NHS waiting lists, educational performance, and infrastructure investment.
SNP Accuses Labour of Arrogance
Scotland’s Finance Secretary Shona Robison condemned Reeves’ comments, saying she had shown “an astonishing level of arrogance” by stating that Westminster could block a referendum regardless of the Scottish election outcome.
Robison argued that Labour’s position will not hold if the SNP wins a majority, adding that telling Scots they cannot choose their own future will only damage Labour’s poll ratings further. She said voters will see the stance as another example of London imposing decisions on Scotland.
Debate Intensifies
The independence debate has resurfaced as both the UK and Scottish governments head toward key elections. While support for independence remains closely split, the SNP continues to frame the 2025 Holyrood contest as a mandate-seeking vote. Reeves’ comments represent one of Westminster’s firmest refusals to date, signalling no movement even if the SNP dominates the polls.
