Most Europeans support an independent Scotland in EU, poll finds

A majority of people across key European countries say they would support Scotland joining the European Union if it became independent.

A new survey conducted by YouGov found strong enthusiasm for Scotland’s return to the EU from six countries.

The Scottish Government has long argued that independence would allow Scotland to “rejoin the European family”.

However, Prime Minister Sir Keir Starmer has ruled out a second vote for Scottish independence or the possibility that the UK will return to the EU for the foreseeable future.

Respondents in Germany, France, Denmark, Spain and Italy were asked whether they would support or oppose an independent Scotland becoming an EU member state.

In all countries polled, support significantly outweighed opposition.

In Germany, 68% of people said they would support Scottish membership of the EU.

In France, the figure was 63%.

Support was also strong in Spain (65%), Denmark (75%), and Italy (64%).

In comparison, elsewhere in Britain, only 46% of Britons supported Scotland re-joining the EU if it became an independent country.

First Minister John Swinney has previously said an independent Scotland would seek to re-join the EU and has said that re-joining the European Union would be “Scotland’s best hope”.

Speaking earlier this year, Swinney stated: “That is why I firmly believe Scotland’s best future lies as an independent country within the EU.

“More than ever, the current uncertain economic and geopolitical environment reinforces the importance of Scotland having the security, stability and opportunity that comes with EU membership.”

In 2022, the Supreme Court ruled that Holyrood does not have the legal authority to hold a vote without UK Government consent.

Polls continue to show Scotland remains split on independence, though recent surveys suggest a narrow lead for Yes.

A separate YouGov poll in June found 51% would now vote for independence, with 49% backing the union.