DEPUTY First Minister Nicola Sturgeon will today warn that the UK Government will "turn the screw" on Scotland if voters reject independence.

She will tell delegates at the SNP conference that public services and popular universal benefits would be under threat as a result of budget cuts.

Ms Sturgeon, who is responsible for drawing up the Scottish Government's white paper on independence, due to be published next month, will say: "Be under no illusion. If we don't vote Yes, Westminster will turn the screw.

"And the limitation of devolution will be exposed for all to see.

"The Scottish Parliament has the power to distribute money. But Westminster decides the budget."

She will add: "Do not ever let anyone pull the wool over your eyes about the consequences of a No vote. They are clear and they are real.

"Scotland's social security system will be dismantled, Scotland's public services and universal benefits will be under threat, Scotland's budget will be cut."

She will tell the party faithful that "Scotland can't afford a No vote".

Better Together, the pro-UK campaign, accused her of scaremongering.

A spokesman said: "Every time a nationalist mentions their positive campaign over the next year, they should be handed these ridiculous words from Nicola Sturgeon. This takes scaremongering to a new level. It is embarrassing."