SCOTLAND would vote for independence if a second referendum on the issue were called, according to a sensational poll published today.

The survey, carried out by Tory donor Lord Ashcroft’s polling company, puts the separatist camp in the lead for the first time in over two years.

Forty-six per cent said they would vote Yes to independence, and 43 per cent No. Once those who planned not to vote or said they were unsure were excluded, the pro-independence side was ahead by 52 per cent to 48 per cent.