Scotland's governments must make certainty, stability and confidence their watch words as the political process around the UK's withdrawal from the European Union (EU) steps up a gear, business leaders have warned.
The Scottish Chambers of Commerce (SCC) said the two referendums and two elections held over the past three years north of the border have contributed to a period of uncertainty which has had an impact upon firms.
IndyRef2: Your questions on potential Scottish referendum answered
It said a further independence referendum would be no different as it called for action to "mitigate the duration of this uncertainty for business".
SCC chief executive Liz Cameron welcomed the Scottish Government's engagement with the Brexit process, saying: "These are vital years ahead for the future of the UK and Scottish economy, and it is crucial that Scotland has a voice at the centre of this process."
She went on: "Scotland has been through two referendums and two major elections over the past three years, and there is no doubt that this period of continual uncertainty has had a material impact upon businesses in Scotland.
"These are real and present business issues that are affecting business decisions and investment.
"A further referendum on Scotland's independence would be no different and the more that can be done to mitigate the duration of this uncertainty for business, the better.
"In the current circumstances, businesses need as much certainty, stability and confidence as possible, and it is the role of our governments to provide it."
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The Confederation of British Industry (CBI) said the Scottish and UK governments must work with businesses to ensure the best deal for Scottish firms arises from the EU negotiations.
CBI Scotland director Hugh Aitken said: "Scottish businesses have acted with resilience since the EU referendum and, in an already uncertain environment, their priority is clarity as soon as possible on what a future deal could look like.
"What's important is that the needs of Scotland - and the other devolved nations - are heard and understood in the discussions on the UK's future relationship with Europe."
The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) said survey work it carried out in 2016 before the Brexit vote revealed little appetite among smaller firms for another independence referendum.
Andy Willox, FSB's Scottish policy convener, added: "Of course, there's a lot more going on now - in terms of faltering confidence and rising costs - than there was last May.
"What we don't know is if these changes have shifted views one way or the other, but I daresay that will become apparent in the weeks and months ahead."
Julie Hesketh-Laird, acting chief executive of the Scotch Whisky Association (SWA), said it will work over the coming months to understand the industry's views on another independence referendum.
IndyRef2: Your questions on potential Scottish referendum answered
She said: "Scotch whisky must be made in Scotland. The industry is rooted in Scotland and will continue to invest in its people, operations and world-famous brands.
"However, it's important that government works hard to ensure that the Scottish business environment is competitive, regardless of the constitutional debate."
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