Scotland's First Minister of Scotland, Nicola Sturgeon, is interviewed, on May 17, 2022, in Washington. (JACQUELYN MARTIN / AP PHOTO)

LONDON – Voters in Scotland remain evenly split over whether or not they support independence from the rest of Britain, a poll published by the Sunday Times showed, days after the Scottish government set out plans for a referendum on the subject next year.

Last week, Scotland's first minister Nicola Sturgeon announced plans for a second independence referendum to be held on October 2023, and vowed to take legal action if the British government blocks it

Last week, Scotland's first minister Nicola Sturgeon announced plans for a second independence referendum to be held on October 2023, and vowed to take legal action if the British government blocks it. 

READ MORE: Scottish leader sets date for new referendum on independence

The Panelbase survey showed 48 percent of respondents were in favor of independence, 47 percent were opposed and 5 percent did not know. A previous online Panelbase poll in April had 47 percent in favor and 49 percent against.

The latest results were based on a sample size of 1,010 people.

British Prime Minister Boris Johnson and his ruling Conservative Party strongly oppose a referendum, saying the issue was settled in 2014 when Scots voted against independence by 55 percent to 45 percent.

Other polls in 2022 vary, with some showing a similar split to the 2014 result, and others showing the gap narrowing.

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