Have had the delight of having my mentions dominated for the last couple of days by those with Very Strong Opinions about a Scottish independence referendum

From the perspective of a Brexit commentary veteran, a couple of observations

1.

Many opponents of #indyref2 are taking the points of

- there is not a SNP majority

- the last referendum was supposed to be 'once in a generation/lifetime' etc

These technical points are reminiscent of the Remainers who insisted the Brexit referendum was 'advisory'

2

Or those Remainers who insisted (until quite late) that Article 50 had not in fact actually been triggered

Yes, one can understand these points, but they do not ultimately matter or change minds

3.

Opponents of Scottish independence should not rely on technical points, but be arguing the case on its merits

Just as Remainers needed to make a (better) case for Remain on its merits

Pedantic legalistic points get you nowhere - as I can aver as a pedantic legal commentator

4.

Every time an opponent of Scottish independence resorts to 'no SNP majority' or 'the last referendum was supposed to be once in a generation/lifetime' that is a lost opportunity to make a case on its merits.

Unless, of course, there is no case for the Union on its merits

5/ends