SNP members to debate blueprint for independence in the autumn

SNP members will debate the key points of the party’s new blueprint for independence in the autumn.

MPs, MSPs and party activists will decide exactly which of the recommendations contained in last Friday’s Growth Commission report should be adopted as party policy.

The report, prepared by a group of experts chaired by former Nationalist MSP and RBS economist Andrew Wilson is seen as providing the bedrock for any potential second referendum.

It recommends an independent Scotland moving towards using its own currency after keeping the pound for a transition period.

Other key recommendations include cutting the country’s deficit from an “anticipated starting point” of 5.9% at the time of leaving the UK to less than 3%, and an independent Scotland making an “annual solidarity payment” towards its share of UK debt. First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, who is under pressure from some members wanting an early indy referendum, yesterday said the publication of the report would not alter her plan to wait until the autumn, when more will be known about the shape of any Brexit agreement before deciding.

She said: “This report doesn’t change what I have said about waiting until we have clarity around Brexit before saying anything about the timing.”