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Nationalists in Scotland want referendum on independence, Northern Ireland aims for unity with the Republic of Ireland: Simon Griffiths

Since Thomas Golzer | 05.45, 30 January 2021

Mr. Griffiths, The Scots are moving towards a new independence referendum, and according to surveys the desire for a united Ireland is growing – even in Wales there are tendencies for division: How critically would you, as an expert on British domestic affairs, assess the condition of the United Kingdom?
Simon Griffiths: The most obvious thing is Scotland: the National Party NPS dominates the Scottish Parliament. Nicola Sturgeon (NPS leader and “first minister” note) recently announced that she would hold a second independence referendum if the parliamentary group has a majority after the May parliamentary elections. British Prime Minister Boris Johnson wants to boycott it – the basis of a very dangerous crisis, as we have seen in Catalonia.

How does Northern Ireland work?
The Brexit agreement creates a trade barrier between Northern Ireland and Great Britain. As a result, the Northern Irish economy is aligned with the Republic of Ireland. However, there is no doubt that the current situation is leading to severe tensions in historically divided areas.