Jeremy Corbyn has said he hopes there is a second Scottish independence referendum “soon” and that Labour should support it.
Speaking at the Edinburgh Festival Fringe today, the former Labour leader was asked by a member of the audience about his stance on a fresh vote.
The Islington North MP told the crowd at the Freemason’s Hall in Edinburgh: “Yes, I do support the principle of having a referendum and I hope that happens soon.
“I suspect the British Government will try and oppose it – I hope that a Labour majority would also support a referendum.
“I think it’s a democratic right to decide your own future.”
Mr Corbyn said he would have given the green light to another referendum two years into his premiership.
He added: “My view is that if the people of Scotland want that referendum to defend their future, then they should have that right.
“I don’t think there should be a power of veto by the UK Government or the UK Prime Minister on this.
“I made clear before the 2019 election that if we went into Government we would be accepting of the principle that if Scotland wanted a referendum after two years, that would be what we would agree to do – that’s what I said at the time and that’s what I stand by.”
The veteran left-winger – who was kicked out of Labour in a row over antisemitism – also told the event he had “been treated very badly” by the party.
But he pledged to work for his constituents if he is returned to the seat at the next general election, which is expected next year.
Mr Corbyn’s successor Sir Keir Starmer has blocked him from standing for Labour in the London seat he has represented for 40 years.
