A IPSOS MORI survey for BBC Scotland found that 63 per cent of people want another referendum, 34 percent within the next two years, 19 per cent in two to five years, and 10 percent after the next five years. But more than a third (34 percent) were against a fresh vote whilst young people were more likely to support a second referendum in the next two years, with 46 per cent backing a vote soon compared to 36 percent of those aged 35-54 and 22 per cent of those aged 55 and over.

However, the survey comes amid chaos of Nicola Sturgeon deciding to lift lockdown two weeks later than the rest of the UK.

Police Scotland boss Iain Livingstone warned that the split in lockdown measures in England and Scotland could spark public chaos.

Speaking to BBC Radio 4’s Today programme, Mr Livingstone said that a two-speed approach either side of the border “would undoubtedly make policing more challenging”.

The First Minister has paused her party’s independence campaign while the Scottish Government focuses its attention on fighting the coronavirus pandemic.

But Ms Sturgeon has repeatedly said that Scotland should be offered another say on independence in the wake of the Brexit referendum which saw the UK vote in favour of leaving the EU. 

The survey also asked people’s views on Brexit with two thirds of the Scottish public (66 percent) believing the Brexit transition period should be extended for up to two years to allow more time for trade negotiations.

Meanwhile, almost a third (30 percent) feel the transition period should end on December 31 as planned.

Emily Gray, managing director of Ipsos MORI Scotland, said: “The indication is that Scots’ attitudes are shifting during the coronavirus outbreak, and those campaigning on both sides of the independence debate in Scotland will be watching public opinion very closely over the coming weeks and months.”

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Nicola Sturgeon announced the first “cautious” steps out of the coronavirus lockdown at a press briefing earlier.

The start of the first phase, effective from tomorrow, will allow Scots to meet people from other households outdoors in parks and gardens – though people are advised to keep any gatherings to a maximum of eight people.

Some outdoor sports will also be permitted once again from Friday, such as golf, tennis and bowls, garden centres can reopen, and the Scottish Government will “no longer discourage” drive-through restaurants from opening.

People will be able to sunbathe in parks – but the First Minister has urged people not to flock to tourist destinations and beauty spots.