In a fiery Prime Minister's Questions exchange that sent shockwaves through Westminster, Rishi Sunak has accused Scottish First Minister John Swinney of 'insulting the intelligence' of the Scottish people amid revelations of a secret independence blueprint.
Explosive Westminster Confrontation
The Prime Minister launched his blistering broadside after being confronted about leaked documents suggesting the Scottish Government has been developing a covert strategy to push for a second independence referendum. According to sources, the alleged plan involves creating the appearance of an 'irresistible mandate' for separation.
'The First Minister should stop insulting the intelligence of the Scottish people and focus on their real priorities,' Sunak declared to roaring approval from Conservative benches. The dramatic confrontation exposed the raw tensions at the heart of the Union just months before a potential general election.
'Treating Voters With Contempt'
Downing Street sources later expanded on the Prime Minister's accusations, suggesting the SNP administration was 'treating Scottish voters with contempt' by pursuing constitutional division while public services face mounting pressure.
The alleged secret strategy, reportedly dubbed the 'Independence Delivery Plan,' is said to include:
- Coordinated pressure on Westminster for referendum powers
- International diplomacy efforts to build support
- Public engagement campaigns promoting separation
- Economic planning for transition to independence
Constitutional Battle Reignited
This explosive revelation comes at a critical juncture for Scottish politics, with recent polling showing mixed support for both independence and the SNP government. The confrontation signals a significant escalation in the ongoing constitutional battle between Holyrood and Westminster.
Opposition parties have seized on the development, with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar calling it 'typical SNP distraction tactics' while Scottish Secretary Alister Jack demanded 'transparency and focus on real issues.'
The Scottish Government has yet to issue a formal response to the Prime Minister's specific allegations, though sources close to Swinney suggest he will 'robustly defend Scotland's democratic rights' when he addresses the media later today.
