Andy Burnham has told the First Minister of Scotland another independence referendum is “off limits”.
In his first meeting with John Swinney since becoming PM, Mr Burnham insisted the focus must be on delivering growth and helping families with the cost of living.
Meeting in Glasgow
The Makerfield MP met with the SNP leader in Glasgow ahead of the Commonwealth Games, and offered to work more closely together on devolution to help improve the lives of Scots.
As well as the Scottish leader, Mr Burnham also met with Wales' First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth during the visit.
Downing Street statement
Speaking after the meeting, a Downing Street spokesperson said: "The Prime Minister began by congratulating the First Minister and the city of Glasgow for hosting the Commonwealth Games, especially at short notice, and said he was looking forward to watching the opening ceremony later that evening.
"The conversation then turned to how the Prime Minister and First Minister can work more closely together to build a model of devolution to improve people's lives across Scotland.
"The Prime Minister reiterated his belief that deeper devolution could make a real difference in helping communities across the UK to re-industrialise - creating jobs, transforming high streets and reviving local economies - and welcomed the First Minister's willingness to engage with that process.
"The Prime Minister stated up front that another referendum on independence was off limits because it would take our focus away from growing the economy and helping families with the cost of living.
"More broadly, the Prime Minister said this was a moment for both sides to work together in a constructive relationship. He looked forward to regular engagement with the First Minister in the months ahead."
Scottish Government response
The Scottish Government issued their own statement after the meeting, saying the First Minister would continue to argue for independence, citing the May elections and recent vote in Scottish parliament.
They also claimed the former Greater Manchester Mayor made a commitment “not to bypass the Scottish Parliament and Scottish Government in further devolution of powers”.
