PM gears up for bitter battle to stop Sturgeon holding a fresh Scottish independence vote BEFORE Brexit happens as she accuses First Minister of 'playing games' with UK's future

The PM lashed out at Miss Sturgeon for 'playing games' with the future of the UK after the First Minister demanded a new poll as early as Autumn 2018 - potentially disrupting negotiations with the EU at a crucial stage. In a speech at her official residence in Edinburgh, Miss Sturgeon said the UK stood at a 'hugely important crossroads' and Scotland must have a 'genuine choice' about its fate. But critics pointed out that Scots would not know what they were voting on as the deal with the EU will not have been finalised. And Downing Street made clear Mrs May is ready to fight to ensure the timetable does not undermine the country's interests. Miss Sturgeon's bombshell announcement came with parliament on the verge of passing legislation allowing Mrs May to trigger Article 50, after rebel Tory MPs and peers indicated they will back down over two key amendments.