Planning for a second independence referendum can move forward due to the "improved situation" in the fight against coronavirus, John Swinney has claimed.
But the Deputy First Minister would not reveal today when the official campaign would begin - despite the Scottish Government's stated desire for a vote to take place before the end of 2023.
Swinney insisted only "very modest measures" against covid remain in place across Scotland although workers are still being told they should not use an office.It comes as temporary measures brought in over the festive season to halt the spread of the Omicron variant are finally lifted today.Pubs and restaurants no longer have to follow social distancing measures while nightclubs can finally reopen.
Nicola Sturgeon used an interview yesterday to announce a legislative timetable for an IndyRef2 bill would be confirmed in "the coming weeks".