Swinney says Scottish independence referendum could be held in 2028

Swinney says Scottish independence referendum could be held in 202818 minutes agoShareSaveAdd as preferred on GoogleAngus CochraneSenior political journalist, BBC ScotlandGetty ImagesRussel Findlay, left, clashed with John Swinney, right, during the debate Scotland could have a second independence referendum as soon as 2028, First Minister John Swinney has said.The SNP leader, who was facing other party leaders in a BBC Scotland Debate Night special in Paisley Town Hall, said it was "perfectly conceivable" that a vote on the constitution could be held within two years.Green co-leader Ross Greer said Scotland's future should be "in Scotland's hands".But Labour leader Anas Sarwar said next month's election was "not about independence", while Conservative chief Russell Findlay said the break-up of the UK would be an "unmitigated disaster". Reform UK's Scottish leader, Malcolm Offord, said another referendum would be "divisive" - but did not rule out a future vote if support for a Yes vote reaches 60%. Alex Cole-Hamilton, Scottish Liberal Democrat leader, said he had not given a second referendum "a moment's thought" because he was focused on other issues. The party chiefs - who were asked questions by a live studio audience - also clashed over immigration, the NHS and energy during the debate.Party leaders to go head-to-head in Scottish election debateScotland's main election issues in six chartsA second independence referendum would need to be signed off by the UK government.However, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has said he cannot imagine another vote taking place during his time in 10 Downing Street.Earlier on Sunday, Health Secretary Wes Streeting told LBC: "We're not having one" and added that "this country has had enough of chaos".At the BBC debate, Swinney told the audience the people of Scotland were "entitled" to decide their own const...