Nicola Sturgeon has said it is “deeply disappointing” that the new chancellor has suggested Scotland should not have a different relationship with Europe to the rest of the UK.
The first minister said she hoped Theresa May would be more open to “constructive discussion”.
Philip Hammond, who has replaced George Osborne in the Cabinet, said yesterday the Brexit vote made “collectively” by the people of the UK would be implemented.
Asked if he could envisage a situation where Scotland had a different relationship, he replied: “No.”
The comments stand in contrast to the position of Scottish Secretary David Mundell, who raised the prospect of Scotland securing a different deal earlier in the week.
He said: “I’m open to Scotland having a slightly different deal if that’s doable. But we have to look at what’s doable.”
Ms Sturgeon has argued Remain means Remain in Scotland, where the majority of voters opted to stay in the European Union.
And the Scottish Government has already begun working on the legislation that would be required for a second independence referendum to take place following the “material change” of circumstances brought about by the EU poll.
The SNP leader said: “I have been absolutely clear on this issue – the people of Scotland voted decisively to stay part of the EU and their wishes must be respected.
“That includes respect from the UK Government, which is why Philip Hammond’s comments are deeply disappointing – I very much hope the new prime minister will be more open to constructive discussion.
“We will continue to explore all options to protect Scotland’s place in Europe – and I have made clear that the option of an independence referendum must be on the table if it becomes clear that is the best, or only way of preserving our EU status.
“I hope that the new PM, Mr Hammond and all of the UK Government will understand that we are absolutely serious when it comes to achieving our goal of protecting Scotland’s vital interests.”
Former foreign secretary Mr Hammond said: “I think the best future for Scotland is inside the UK economy.
“However we voted, we are part of the UK and we have democratic decisions made across the UK.
“We will now implement the decision that the people of the UK collectively have made to leave the EU.”
