Scottish independence: Former Labour adviser Professor Duncan Maclennan's political conversion shows the tide is turning – Angus Robertson

That is in large part because record numbers of 2014 ‘No’ voters now believe circumstances have changed. Opinion polls show that up to 58 per cent would vote ‘Yes’ in Indyref2.

The latest convert is certainly somebody who should be listened to closely, he was senior advisor to three Labour first ministers. Duncan Maclennan is professor of public policy at Glasgow University and previously advised Donald Dewar, Henry McLeish and Jack McConnell.

The fact that such a respected academic and voice within Labour circles now supports independence is a clear sign that many people are on a journey and reimagining Scotland’s future.

Professor Maclennan believes much has changed: “Brexit means fair trade, strong global connection and openness that welcomes people from overseas are being frustrated for Scots and Scotland and foreclosed against our wishes.

"Rather than facing the changing global connections in our lives through stronger local and community actions, elitism, incompetence and unelected arrogance have become the hallmarks of the British government. It seems unlikely that a well-managed Britain will be a safe haven for Scots over the next 30 years.”

He now believes there should be another independence referendum: “Scotland can strengthen its international connections, it has strong institutions and communities and it seems to have the creative drive to embrace more sustainable and fairer futures than does the likely Westminster-Whitehall realm for the decade ahead. I now believe our best first constitutional move in an uncertain world is to seek Scottish independence.”

The message was particularly well received from the more than 3,000 members taking part in the virtual SNP conference. In a triumph for the SNP digital team, the online conference brought together independence campaigners from around the country to take part in debates, hear keynote speeches, attend fringe events and also meet one another with the conference blether function.

Not only have coronavirus restrictions made the conference an online success out of necessity, it has shown a better way for including members with mobility issues or childcare responsibilities. It has been truly inclusive.

My personal high-points have been the speeches from First Minister Nicola Sturgeon, Plaid Cymru leader Adam Price and MP Mhairi Black. It is striking how many talented young and new members the SNP has, as well as excellent candidates running in next year’s Holyrood elections.

The conference heard some big policy announcements for the Scottish Government and signposted the differences with the Tories in the run-up to the elections. Nicola Sturgeon announced that low-income families will receive £100 payments before Christmas.

The support will help struggling households "pay their fuel bills and make sure children don't go hungry”. A special fund will also be used to help to get older people online and assist the homeless. Other announcements included Education Secretary John Swinney on free school meals and Finance Secretary Kate Forbes confirming no public sector pay freeze in Scotland.

There are now only 22 weeks until the Scottish Parliament elections. The race for Holyrood is a straight choice of the SNP and the strong and capable leadership of Nicola Sturgeon against the Tories. Opinion polls show the SNP and independence have popular backing, but it is the election that really counts. Let’s take nothing for granted and work for victory.

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