The female vote could be key to the result of the independence referendum as a poll pointed to a possible gender divide on views about the future of the Union, it has been claimed.

A survey of more than 1000 people found that, when undecided voters were excluded, a majority of men back independence.

However, a larger majority of women are against the idea, according to the Panelbase survey.

Stripping out responses from those who have not yet made up their minds, the poll found 51% of men agreed and 49% disagreed.

When women were asked the same question, 38% said they supported independence and 62% opposed the move. However, many more women than men have not yet made up their minds.