Nicola Sturgeon should let Scottish anger “simmer and grow” from Theresa May’s decision to block an independence referendum.
Former presiding officer George Reid, who is an adviser on the First Minister’s Brexit panel, said the SNP should exploit resentment towards Number 10, rather than rush into an unauthorised referendum.
The former Fife MSP’s comments followed a plea from Finance Secretary Derek Mackay for activists to treat others with respect in the campaign to build support for independence.
Asked at a fringe meeting about holding a consultative referendum, Sir George, a former diplomat, said: “I am not particularly keen on local referenda.
“You see what happens in Catalonia. One side comes out en masse, the other side boycotted it, and where does that get you, what does that prove?
“I think instead we are to let the undoubted anger simmer and grow.”
He added the pro-independence cause could be bolstered when Scots go on holiday in the summer and see how hard their pockets have been hit by the plummeting pound following the Brexit vote.
Earlier, Mr Mackay told delegates that “how we conduct ourselves really matters”.
“As democrats, we must respect the right of people to disagree with us,” he said.
“And treat our opponents as we wish to be treated ourselves.
“So, if you care about this cause – remember this – our case is a strong one. It will be won by persuading friends, family and colleagues.
“But it doesn’t start with talking – it starts with listening.
“Conference – let us show that giving people a choice can bring our country together.”
