Scotland does not want to "rerun the independence referendum" despite the country voting to remain in the European Union, the Prime Minister has said.

In an opinion piece in the Scottish edition of The Times, Theresa May criticised any interpretation of the high Remain vote in Scotland as a sign of increased support for independence.

In June's referendum 62% of Scottish voters backed staying in the European Union but 52% of voters across the UK backed leaving the organisation.

Nicola Sturgeon has said May's plans to leave the single market have moved the probability of a second independence referendum closer than ever.

The Prime Minister said: "While I respect the views of all those in Scotland who wanted the UK to remain in the EU, I do not believe that their votes represent a wish to separate Scotland from the rest of the United Kingdom or rerun the independence referendum.

"I hope it is clear that our comprehensive plan of Brexit addresses issues and concerns that have been raised in Scotland as well as across the rest of the UK."

May's comments come as her Brexit minister David Davis meets Scottish and Welsh counterparts in London to discuss the Scottish Government's proposals to keep Scotland inside the single market even if the rest of the UK leaves.

The Prime Minister said Davis will "seek to understand more about its proposals and press on with sharing information and views".

The Fraser of Allander institute has estimated that Brexit could cost up to 80,000 jobs in Scotland.

May says Scottish businesses have been telling the UK Government they want "maximum access to the EU single market" and have stressed the importance of "protecting and developing out UK single market".

The Prime Minister says "no barriers" to trade should be constructed inside the UK.