Sovereign Scotland

The majority Scottish National Party (SNP) announced today the beginning of a campaign to rally support for a referendum which would make Scotland an independent country, divorced from Britain and the rest of the United Kingdom.

The idea of Scottish home rule had only marginal appeal until recently. It became a popular issue in Scotland in the 60's, and, after one failed referendum in the 70's, it appears Scots will have another go at devolution.

Those in favor of independence say Scotland contributes more than it receives as a member of the UK, and could stand to make a lot of money from the oil fields off the Scottish coast in the North Sea. The SNP's John Swinney claims that Scotland could be the sixth wealthiest nation in the world if it had unfettered access to the oil.

Those opposed say Scotland would marginalize itself in independence. As a member of the UK, it enjoys the benefits of being a NATO state, a permanent member of the UN security council, and a member of the G8. Oil revenue will eventually subside which would create the need for new taxes to pay for government spending.

Polls are difficult for issues such as this, because words like "separate" and "divorce" are viewed negatively while words like "independence" and "sovereign" are viewed positively, but polling does indicate popular support for independence, and quite a few people unsure or withholding opinions. This campaign the SNP is touting will seek to get Scots to the ballot in their finest tartanry to create an independent Scotland.

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-15419108

http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-15423494

By Bob Hartzer