Fears over late night referendum pub licences

A number of Scottish pubs have been granted late night licences while votes are counted following today’s referendum, sparking fears of violent clashes between “yes” and “no” supporters.

Fears over violent clashes between Scottish pro-independence and pro-unionists are mounting as pubs are granted late night licences

Many bars throughout Scotland will be open while votes from today’s referendum on Scottish independence are counted, with the first set of results set to be announced at 2am Friday morning and the second set at 6am.

However politicians and police officers have slammed the plans as “absolute madness”.

One senior officer told The Times newspaper: “If it’s a ‘no’ vote there is concern it will get ugly. The ‘yes’ campaign has been quite vociferous and there is a gut feeling they are already using any excuse to make trouble.”

“Houses with ‘no’ signs still up will be particularly vulnerable, especially if people have been drinking for most of the day.”

Reports in weeks have said claimed some “yes” campaigners have resorted to violence and intimidation, pelting eggs at the houses of pro-union supporters.

Scottish Conservatives justice spokeswoman Margaret Mitchell also expressed concern over the extended licenses. “Whichever way this goes there will be some disappointed people and alcohol and high emotions don’t really mix,” she told the Daily Mail.

However Police Scotland has claimed that measures for the night are “in hand”.