British Prime Minister: Another referendum on Scottish independence "not on the table"

London, July 23 (KUNA) -- British Prime Minister Andy Burnham said on Thursday that holding another referendum on Scottish independence is “not on the cards,” stressing that such a move would derail his government’s plans to achieve economic growth and help families cope with the rising cost of living. A British government statement said Burnham’s remarks came during his meeting with Scottish First Minister John Swinney in Glasgow. The statement noted that Burnham made it clear from the outset that another independence referendum “is not on the cards because it would divert our focus from growing the economy and helping families cope with the cost of living,” while at the same time emphasizing the need to “work together in a constructive relationship.” The statement added that the two sides subsequently discussed ways to “cooperate closely” to build a model of devolved powers aimed at improving people’s lives across Scotland. It noted that the Prime Minister reiterated his belief that such a step could make a real difference in helping communities throughout the United Kingdom to reindustrialize by creating jobs, developing trade, and revitalizing local economies, welcoming the Scottish First Minister’s willingness to participate in this process. (End)