SNP's Alex Salmond says a second Scottish independent referendum is 'inevitable'

LONDON – The former first minister of Scotland says a second referendum on Scottish independence is "inevitable."

Legislator Alex Salmond told BBC Sunday that the British government has not followed through on post-referendum promises to give Scotland more powers.

He also said the planned referendum on Britain's status within the European Union is galvanizing the independence movement, as is resistance to welfare cuts and austerity programs imposed by the government.

He said the timing of a future referendum is in the hands of First Minister Nicola Sturgeon.

Salmond led the pro-independence forces in September's vote, when Scottish voters opted to remain part of the United Kingdom.

He then stepped down as Scottish National Party leader but later won election to Parliament.