THE threat of another independence referendum is preventing businesses from investing in Scotland, according to Labour’s Paisley and Renfrewshire North candidate Alison Taylor.

Mrs Taylor, who has been director of a national property consultancy firm for 30 years, pledged to use her business background to try to ensure economic growth in the country if she is elected on June 8.

The 50-year-old, who joined the party in 1998, said that Scotland becoming independent would be a “disaster”.

She added: “Renfrewshire is a lovely area. It’s a great mix of urban and rural and I think Paisley could be so much more than it is.

“The reason I wanted to stand is because of my business background and I see the prospect of IndyRef2 is making it hard to encourage investors to come to Scotland.

“Independence would be a complete disaster.

“I will oppose a divisive second referendum while spreading a positive message about jobs, investment and opportunity for all in the area.

“The SNP had their chance in 2014. We need stability.

“People I have spoken to so far do not think we need another referendum.”

The mum-of-one, who studied at Paisley College of Technology, campaigned for a Yes vote for devolution in 1997 and has been chair of Scottish Labour’s business forum for many years.

Mrs Taylor also said she will not back a hard Brexit and will fight against a proposed closure of Paisley’s children’s ward.

She added: “I believe only Labour can win this seat from the SNP.”