UK’s Burnham tells Scotland new independence vote is off limits

British Prime Minister Andy Burnham has formally closed the door on a second Scottish independence referendum during discussions with Scotland's First Minister John Swinney in Glasgow. Burnham, who assumed office on July 20, stated that holding such a vote would undermine efforts to strengthen the economy and reduce living costs—core objectives of his administration.

The Scottish government has long sought another independence vote, arguing that circumstances have shifted since the 2014 referendum, in which 55 percent of Scots voted to remain in the United Kingdom. Scottish officials point to the UK's departure from the European Union, which 62 percent of Scots opposed, as a material change in conditions. First Minister Swinney has contended that independence could lift Scotland from what he describes as "political chaos and economic stagnation" into "greater security and prosperity" as an EU member.

However, Britain's highest court has already determined that Scotland cannot hold a second referendum without explicit approval from the British Parliament. During a prior telephone conversation, Burnham told Swinney that the two would need to "agree to disagree" on independence. Instead, Burnham's government intends to pursue what he calls "practical measures to help people live well" across all regions of the UK, explicitly rejecting focus on constitutional referendums.

Burnham outlined plans for increased devolution—transferring greater autonomy and decision-making power to local authorities—as a means to revitalize struggling regional economies. Downing Street indicated that Burnham welcomed Swinney's openness to engaging in this devolution process. The Prime Minister was also scheduled to meet with Wales's First Minister Rhun ap Iorwerth and attend the opening ceremony of the 2026 Commonwealth Games in Glasgow.