The SNP says the Prime Minister’s comments amount to an acknowledgement that Scotland should be able to determine its own constitutional future.

Brown pointed to the arrangements governing a border poll in Northern Ireland, arguing that a referendum should be called when it appears likely to produce a majority for constitutional change.

He said Burnham’s comments should now be followed by a meaningful commitment over Scotland’s ability to hold another independence referendum.

Brown said:

“The UK Prime Minister was crystal clear that the rules determining the timing of a Scottish independence referendum are exactly the same as those governing an Irish border poll.

“Those rules are already written into law in the Good Friday Agreement, that a referendum shall be called if it is likely to pass.

“Andy Burnham’s clarity that this is ‘exactly the same situation in Scotland’ is a welcome and overdue acknowledgment that the people of Scotland can and should determine their own constitutional future at a time of their choosing.

“There can be no “off limits” when it comes to our democracy and now the welcome clarity given by the Prime Minister must become meaningful.

“Through a fresh start with independence Scotland, we can use our vast energy resources to build a wealthier, fairer, Scotland as part of the EU.

“That’s the future we can build together, if we take the opportunity to vote for it.”