Drop in independence backing: Poll

Oct 8 2012

Opposition to independence has increased again to open up a 25-point gap over the Yes campaign, according to a poll.

The survey of 995 adults, published in the Herald newspaper, showed support for the Union at 53% compared with support for independence at 28%.

The results follow two other polls by the same company this year, showing a trend in opinion.

Opposition to independence increased from 44% to 50% then 53% while support for independence dropped from 38% to 35% then 28%.

Chris Eynon, head of polling company TNS-BMRB Scotland, told the Herald: "With the referendum not due for two years, much can change.

"However, there is no doubt that momentum currently sits with those opposed to independence.

"This may be on account of a feelgood factor from British sporting achievement over the summer, the fact that every week seems to bring a fresh challenge to the viability and status of an independent Scotland or simply the SNP Government becoming increasingly challenged on its performance.

"The Yes campaign is very much on the back foot and struggling to get its message across."