How could Scotland secure a second independence referendum?

Politics Explained: Row reflects growing threat to the union from a no-deal Brexit

While many MPs are on their sun loungers, studiously avoiding their phones, John McDonnell has taken it upon himself to make news.

In an interview at the Edinburgh Fringe Festival, the shadow chancellor declared that Labour would not block a second referendum on Scottish independence.

McDonnell also provocatively referred to Westminster as the “English parliament” – a phrase used by advocates of independence to express the view that Scotland is ruled by England.