The SNP has always had a problem with grief. It’s reaction to losing the referendum in 2014 was like the loss of a close relative, but it has never even after nearly ten years reached the acceptance stage. Sometimes it seems as if Scottish nationalism is still in denial.

Something changed this year. Did you notice? Scottish elections have become competitive again. The SNP is on 36% Labour is a little behind. But latest predictions are that the SNP might lose half its MPs and Labour might beat it.

To be honest I totally didn’t see this coming. So, I can understand why SNP politicians are still in denial. But why are they debating what to do if they win 50% and one vote? It’s like the whole year never happened.

The latest plan is as follows.

A mandate for Scotland to become ­independent “with immediate effect” will be ­secured if the SNP and other pro-independence parties secure 50% plus one of votes in a national election. But if the UK Government does not “meaningfully engage” with the Scottish Government over negotiations within 90 days, it says MPs will be withdrawn from Westminster and a National Assembly will take forward the establishment of Scotland as an ­independent nation.

But this is just the de facto referendum at a General Election plan that Sturgeon put forward and which was generally ridiculed. It now perhaps includes also Holyrood elections. But how can an election to a devolved parliament constitute a mandate for independence? Why not local government elections too? Can the Orkney council really vote to join Norway?

Want to see more SNP fails? – Health Matters