John Swinney raises indyref2 in first conversation with new Prime Minister Andy Burnham

First Minister John Swinney raised Scotland's constitutional future during his first telephone conversation with new Prime Minister Andy Burnham, who took office on Monday following Keir Starmer's departure. The call took place on Tuesday morning.

According to a Scottish Government spokesperson, Swinney congratulated Burnham on his appointment and set out his commitment to both governments working constructively together to address the cost-of-living crisis and lower energy bills. The spokesperson stated: "The First Minister set out the majority within the Scottish Parliament for the future of Scotland to be decided by the people of Scotland and looked forward to a constructive dialogue on this issue." Swinney also extended an invitation to host Burnham at Bute House at the earliest opportunity.

However, UK Government sources revealed that Burnham did not waver on his opposition to a second independence referendum. A source told the Press Association that when the question of independence was raised, the prime minister was quite firm that they would have to agree to disagree. The source said it is not something Burnham is focused on and not a conversation he is interested in taking forward. The source described the rest of the call as quite warm and constructive, noting that Burnham emphasised areas where the two governments could work together.

Burnham is a committed devolutionist who has backed more powers being handed to the nations and regions. However, he favours more responsibilities being given to councils and regions north of the border rather than to the Holyrood parliament. He is opposed to indyref2, the top demand of Swinney's administration.

A Downing Street spokesperson said the Prime Minister was focused on practical measures not constitutional changes like further referendums, adding he wanted to create new politics rooted in finding common ground and collaborative relations with the heads of devolved governments. The conversation took place as Burnham also spoke with leaders in Wales and Northern Ireland on his first full day in office.