The Scottish Government

First Minister Alex Salmond

Friday, November 30, 2007

We in the Scottish Government believe that sovereignty in Scotland lies with its people.

That is why our manifesto for the Scottish Parliamentary elections this year promised to provide an opportunity for the people to consider the concept of Scottish independence in a referendum during this Parliament.

As First Minister, it is my responsibility to explore and lead discussion on the options for constitutional change. I lead the first Scottish National Party Government to be elected in a devolved Scotland, so I will put the case for independence, its benefits and opportunities.

However, I also recognise there is a range of other views in our country and represented in the Parliament. The national conversation on our future is to allow the people of Scotland to debate, reflect and then decide on the type of Government which best equips Scotland for the future.

It is 10 years since the referendum to establish the Scottish Parliament. We have seen the potential of a Scottish Parliament to respond to the wishes and needs of the people of this country. But we have also seen the limitations of its current responsibilities.

I believe it is now time for us, the people of Scotland, to consider and choose our own future in the modern world.

Alex Salmond, First Minister

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Comments

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• 331. Neil Millar - York

  Tuesday, August 14, 2007 23:28

  As an "exiled" Scot, do I get a say in this? Seriously, how does it work for those of us who, for one reason or another, reside south of the border? If it ever becomes apparent that a genuine and clearly thought out referendum can be held on this issue, will I get a vote?

• 332. Monckton of Brenchley - Carie, Rannoch

  Tuesday, August 14, 2007 23:29

  The West Highland question, or the "Why Stop There?" question, needs to be addressed. In the Highlands we are weary of the excessive bureaucracy, intrusiveness, Pooterishness and cost of the Scottish Executive and of local authorities. Both levels of government are mere servile rubber stamps of our unelected masters in the EU, which makes 80% of our laws, while Westminster makes just 10% of our laws. The Scottish Nationalists are not offering true independence, for that would involve leaving the EU, giving us eight times more real independence than if we left Westminster but remained in the EU. If Edinburgh can become independent of London, then the Highlands and Islands can (and will) become independent of both London and Europe. Libertas optima rerum.

• 333. de brus1314 - Inverbervie

  Tuesday, August 14, 2007 23:29

  Just watched another botched up comment from Labour stating that 'Now being an opposition party'(Losing), That their main focus now is the 'Welfare' and future of Scotland and the Scottish people, why did they lose?, simple, the Scottish people voted for a change and as far as I'm concerned the FM and SNP have my full backing.
  There are too many scaremongers out there, a referendum for Independance should be held but not after a drive from the SNP to get out there, get input and really put their case forward!
  BRING THE YOUTH INTO THEIR FUTURE!!!

• 334. Scott Richardson - Glasgow

  Tuesday, August 14, 2007 23:31

  The SNP government has raised the status of our parliament and brought fresh ideas into government. The first 100 days have been overwhelmingly positive. Even the harshest press critics and opponents believe the new government has done well - especially for a minority administration. The new National Conversation should be welcomed and people given a chance to have their say. I hope the politicians offer us a multi-option referendum whereby Independence or the opportunity for Greater Devolution are on offer.

• 335. Robert - Dumfries

  Tuesday, August 14, 2007 23:32

  I was in Ireland the week after September 11th 2001 listening to the Irish debating on whether or not to be 'neutral' in the coming war against Bin Laden... No one takes any notice of small countries, no one cared what the Irish thought.... If you want to be a weak nonentity then independence is the quickest way to achieve it... Oh and for any of you who believe in the wealth claptrap that small countries possess, ask the Irish how much you have to pay to see the doctor, and what you get healthcare wise without insurance... Caveat Emptor....

• 336. W Hutchison - Scotland - Dumbarton

  Tuesday, August 14, 2007 23:35

  The first 100 days of an SNP government has shown how we Scots can raise our aspirations, and the groundswell for change is evident amongst all the parties - even Labour who were swept from their 50 years of electoral dominance. The devolution status quo is not an option, and it is clear that the People of Scotland want increased powers for their Parliament,and woe betide the politicians who would stand in the people's way. Norway, Denmark, Ireland have all prospered as small countries trading and interacting with other nation states and Scotland should be no different. Let us welcome this debate!

• 337. Alfred the OK - The country of ENGLAND (not Britain)

  Tuesday, August 14, 2007 23:35

  More power to your elbow, Alex. Because as long as you are rattling the cage north of the border, the better the chance of a bit of empowerment down here. And when we both have national responsibility and England actually gets a Parliament of her own, can you do us a favour? Can you PLEASE find some jobs for Gordon, Alistair, Des, Gorballs Mick and Duggie to do up in your neck of the woods. We've had quite enough of their supposed 'talents' thanks. English Parliament NOW!

• 338. Kevin Gillies - Carnoustie, Scotland

  Tuesday, August 14, 2007 23:37

  The only way to clear the air regarding Scotland's future is to have a referendum. The SNP have left alot of options on the proposed question so I do not see what the problem is with the Unionist parties who are against the referendum.
  
  The question is not "yes or no" It is a multiple choice question and surely it has a answer for everyone.
  
  The Unionists are running scared and Salmond looks in a good position no matter the outcome of this. The Unionists have said that the referendum would lose so why the big fear?
  
  I personally believe Scotland should be given a referendum on the future of our economy. Democracy is all about the people and surely a referendum on Scotland and her future is a fine practise of democracy.
  

• 339. Jockie - Edinburgh

  Tuesday, August 14, 2007 23:37

  I voted Yes/Yes in the original vote for the Scottish Parliament, but only because independence was not an option then. Surely if the opposition parties think people in Scotland will not support independence then they have nothing to fear. Maybe they fear the opposite is actually true though.
  
  As for going it alone...currently I work for the UK Civil Service. I would have no problem working for a Scottish one.

• 340. Ands -

  Tuesday, August 14, 2007 23:39

  If SCOTLAND becomes independent will we withdraw all scottish regements from Arag and Afghanistan England ETc
  Ands

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