Second independence referendum on the cards after Brexit vote?

Speculation is already rife as to the possibility of a second independence referendum for Scotland, after the country voted by 62% to 38% to remain in the European Union – while the UK as a whole voted to leave.

Scotland as expected voted Remain, by 1,661,191 to 1,018,322, with all 32 local authority areas returning a majority, ranging from a mere 122 votes in Moray to a 74.4% Reman vote in Edinburgh. Across the UK the vote was 17,410,742 for Leave against 16,141,241 for Remain – 51.9% against 48.1%.

The SNP manifesto for the Holyrood elections in May said there should be a second referendum in the event of a "significant and material" change in circumstances – including Scotland being taken out of the EU against its will – and former First Minister Alex Salmond has already indicated that he expects Nicola Sturgeon, his successor in office, to begin moves to hold a further poll. Ms Sturgeon is known to be cautious about committing to a second vote until the national mood appears to be clearly favourable to the SNP's cause.

Speaking on the BBC, Mr Salmond said he was "quite certain Nicola Sturgeon would implement the SNP manifesto".

Ms Sturgeon has since announced that she is to make a statement about the result and its implications for Scotland at a news conference later this morning.

The Scottish Government is intent on seeking to maintain Scotland's relationship with the EU, according to External Affairs Minister Fiona Hyslop.

“It’s quite clear we see a different type of politics in Scotland, a different approach to constitutional affairs", Ms Hyslop said.

"We’re very clear that the Scottish people have spoken. Their interests are about maintaining that membership, we are interested in maintaining our relations with Europe. We have to find the means through which we can do that."