The First Minister confirmed her desire to conduct a second Scottish independence referendum by the end of 2023 during her Programme for Government speech on Tuesday. Ms Sturgeon secured a pro-Scottish independence majority after forming an alliance with the Scottish Greens. Despite failing to secure a majority in the last election, the deal with the Greens gives Ms Sturgeon a 71-57 majority; six more than the 65 needed.

       However, a new Survation poll found only 38 percent of voters believe there should be another referendum within two years.

       In another devastating blast to the SNP's independence ambitions, the survey also found support for remaining in the UK stood at 57 percent, with 43 percent backing independence.

       Pamela Nash, Scotland in Union chief executive, said: "This poll confirms that Nicola Sturgeon is out of touch with the people of Scotland.

       "A majority of voters oppose her plans for a divisive second referendum within the next two years, and she should listen to what people are telling her.

       "The poll also confirms that most people in Scotland want to remain part of the UK, despite the SNP’s relentless campaign to divide us."

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