It is a contentious subject, and has drawn the attention of such prominent luminaries as actor Sean Connery. The issue is Scottish independence, and on Monday, Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond unveiled plans for a referendum vote in 2010, one which could lead to a chance for Scottish independence from the United Kingdom.
However, reportedly many consider the proposal "watered down," and a "vanity project" by Salmond. It's also true that a series of opinion polls show falling support for Scottish independence, and little interest in holding a referendum on the issue. Despite this, Salmond claimed “this argument can be won."
The Daily Telegraph noted the statistics which point to poor support for the referendum. A YouGov survey for the Daily Telegraph last week found only 12 per cent of those surveyed consider a referendum a priority, and 29 per cent want separation from the U.K.
Salmond unveiled this referendum initiative on Nov. 30th. That is Scotland's St. Andrew's Day. Saint Andrew is the patron saint of Scotland, and St. Andrew's Day is Scotland's official national day.
The plan lists four alternatives. The first is to remain status quo, where the Scottish parliament decides on matters such as education, health, the environment and justice, while matters of foreign affairs, defense and nuclear energy are among those handled by the U.K. parliament.
The second alternative consists of limited reforms to "devolution" set out in the so-called Calman Commission review. This would simply transfer a few more powers to Scottish parliament.
The third option is known as "devolution max." Under that option, everything except foreign affairs and defense would be handled in Scottish parliament. The fourth option is full independence.
The Scottish National Party (SNP) is a minority administration. Its main policy has long been Scottish independence. However, the three other major parties, which consist of Labor, the Conservatives and the Liberal Democrats, are all opposed to holding a referendum.
Written by Michael Santo
HULIQ.com
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