London: Britain's decision to leave the EU has not prompted a boost in support for Scottish independence, according to a YouGov poll that undermines the SNP's push for a second referendum.

Some 53 per cent of Scottish voters oppose independence, while 47 per cent support the move - almost identical figures as before the Brexit vote last month.

The findings undermine the claim by SNP leaders that the UK's decision to leave the EU, despite Scots voting to remain, has put the country "truly on the brink of independence".

Scotland voted to remain in the UK less than two years ago, with 55 per cent backing remaining in the Union and 45 per cent supporting independence. However, the SNP has since surged in support, taking all but three Westminster seats in the country at last year's election. Last month Scots supported remaining in the EU by 62 per cent to 38 per cent but the UK as a whole vote to leave.

Nicola Sturgeon, the Scottish First Minister and SNP leader, responded by saying she was considering calling a second referendum on independence.

However, the first YouGov poll to ask Scots about their views on independence showed no surge in support for separation despite Brexit.

Joe Twyman, YouGov's Head of Political and Social Research, said: "Ultimately, it is unclear what the medium and long-term impact of Brexit on people's livelihoods will be and therefore it is also unclear on where Scottish public opinion will go.

"But in the short term, at least, the data suggests the vote to leave the EU has not boosted the cause of Scottish independence."

The findings came as London enjoys a "Brexit boom" in tourism as visitors head to the capital in record numbers after the pound dropped in value. Hotels, airlines and tourist attractions reported a spike for London bookings in July, according to the London Evening Standard.

Telegraph, UK