Opposition to a second Scottish independence referendum in the near future is melting away, according to a Panelbase poll for The Sunday Times. The number of Scots who think a break-up of the Union will never happen is also falling.

The findings will be a boost to the SNP as it prepares to press ahead with plans for a Scottish independence referendum bill and a citizens’ assembly to discuss further constitutional change for Scotland.

The Panelbase survey of 1,024 voters, conducted this month, suggests a near even split on the question of independence with a slender majority (51%) who oppose it compared with those in favour (49%). Fewer than half of respondents (48%) are against another independence referendum in the next few years.

The poll