SIR Sean Connery predicted yesterday that Scotland would become an independent country within his lifetime.

The former James Bond actor, who now lives in the Bahamas, once said he would only consider returning to Scotland if the Union came to an end.

In a hint he might return to his native country, Sir Sean, 77, a staunch SNP supporter, said he believed Scotland was "within touching distance" of achieving independence.

He also praised Alex Salmond, the First Minister, and the work of the SNP government since it came to power in May last year.

"I've always been hopeful about Scotland's prospects," he said. "And I now believe more than ever that Scotland is within touching distance of achieving independence and equality."

He added that the first step towards that had been the winning of Scotland's parliament in 1997. The second was the election of an SNP government last year.

"I believe we have what it takes to take the third step, and I am convinced it will happen in my lifetime," he said.

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