Welsh Tory MP leads ‘hardline pro-union group’ aiming to stop Scottish and Welsh independence

A Welsh Tory MP has become the leader of a new group of “hardline pro-Union MPs” which hope to influence No. 10 in the same way as the European Research Group that strived for a hard Brexit.

The group of 30 MPs are led by Aberconwy MP Robin Millar, who was elected in December to replace Guto Bebb who had is whip removed after voting against Boris Johnson’s Brexit deal.

According to the Times the group, made up primarily of MPs in Wales, Scotland and the north of England will push to ensure that the future of the UK is kept front and centre in both the government and Houses of Parliament.

Recent polls have shown a consistent lead for ‘Yes’ in a Scottish independence referendum, raising the prospect that the SNP will push for a second and successful poll after next May’s Scottish Parliament elections.

Polls in Wales have also shown growing support for independence there, with 25% in favour according to the latest YouGov barometer poll.

‘Irritated’

Prime Minister Boris Jonson is due in Scotland this week as part of an effort to demonstrate his commitment to the United Kingdom.

A UK Government source said that No. 10 was in “panic mode” about the future of the nation-state.

“Michael [Gove] is in panic mode about the future of the union and Boris is in irritated mode,” the source said.

The Prime Minister plans to tell Scotland that they will benefit from “huge economic support” if they stay within the UK.