Scotland's first minister warns of 2nd independence referendum in case of Brexit

If Scotland votes in favor of European Union (EU) membership while the rest of the UK votes to leave, it could lead to a second Scottish independence referendum, Scotland's First Minister Nicola Sturgeon warned Monday.

In a speech in London, Sturgeon said she wanted the EU referendum on June 23 to result in "an overwhelming victory across all parts of the UK for remaining in the European Union."

"The fundamental principle of the EU - that independent nations work together for a common good - appeals to me and appeals to many people across Scotland," she explained.

If Scotland was to taken out of the EU against its will, it might lead to "a growing clamor for a further (independence) referendum," she warned.

"Yes, of course I want Scotland to be independent but I don't want Scotland to become independent because the UK chooses to leave the European Union," added the first minister.

Making the case for remaining in the EU, she argued that the bloc is good for the prosperity and well-being of individuals, families and communities across the country.

"For all its imperfections, the European Union is a force for good in the world," she said, adding that she would campaign "wholeheartedly" to achieve that result.

She reiterated that she would prefer Scotland to be one of the independent states of the EU.

"But independent or not I believe we are better off in than out so we can work with our neighbors to create a wealthier, fairer, happier continent," she noted.

"I believe that it's the best outcome for communities, businesses and individuals everywhere - across the European Union, and in all the nations of these islands," she concluded.

Britain will hold a referendum on whether to remain in the EU on June 23 after Prime Minister David Cameron agreed a package of changes to British membership in the EU after two days of marathon talks with leaders of other member states at a EU summit earlier this month. Endit