abby grant
2 Answers
ROMOS
Yep...
1. Decisions about Scotland are best made by the people who live here
The Yes campaign says the fundamental issue in the referendum is not about nationalism or the economy, but democracy. Governments formed at Westminster often do not reflect the majority vote in Scotland. With independence, Scotland would always get the government it voted for.
2. Scotland can be a successful country in its own right
The Scottish Government says statistics show an independent Scotland would be one of the wealthiest countries in the world. Spending per head in Scotland may be higher than the rest of the UK, but so is Scotland’s tax contribution. Independence is not an end in itself, says the Scottish Government. It says prosperity and fairness are at the heart of the case for independence. It argues controversial policies such as the bedroom tax would not have been allowed if Scotland was in charge.
3. An independent Scotland would make decisions that reflected Scottish priorities
Devolution has allowed Scotland to follow its own direction in areas such as health end education. Independence would mean that ability to choose a distinctive approach was extended to all aspects of policy.
4. Independence would be a declaration of confidence in ourselves and our nation
The Scottish Government claims independence would release a period of energy, effort and ambition with the power to realise people’s hopes and expectations and transform the country.
5. Scotland could set its own welfare priorities
At the moment, Scotland is tied into welfare reforms pursued by the UK government. Under independence, Scotland could tailor the welfare system to suit its needs and priorities. The SNP has pledged to halt current UK reforms and create a fairer system.
6. Scotland could get rid of Trident
Banishing nuclear weapons from Scottish soil is a clear commitment from the SNP. Critics say moving the submarines to England will make little difference, but anti-nuclear campaigners believe Scotland’s refusal to house them could be the catalyst for deciding against renewal of the weapons. It would also save money.
7. Scotland would not get dragged into illegal wars
The SNP says with control of its own armed forces, an independent Scotland would never become involved in “illegal” wars or invasions of other countries like Iraq. The SNP proposes to spend less money on defence, focusing on maritime capabilities, such as air and sea-based patrols, and a military totaling 15,000 regular and 5000 reserve personnel.
8. North Sea oil revenues would be put to good use
Up until now, tax revenue from North Sea oil has gone to the UK Treasury and been used for general expenditure. The SNP says it would set up an Energy Fund, both to bring stability when oil prices fluctuate, and for investment to ensure future generations also benefit from oil and gas reserves.
9. Scotland could adopt a different immigration policy
Scotland needs an increase in the working population to balance the growing number of older people. Campaigners also argue it is losing out on overseas students because of the tough line on immigration from the UK government. Under independence, Scotland could adopt an immigration policy more suited to the country’s needs, including a return to the Fresh Talent initiative introduced by Labour’s Jack McConnell, allowing overseas graduates to stay on and work here for a couple of years once their studies were over.
10. Scotland will continue to have good relationships with England, Wales and Northern Ireland but on a more equal basis
Independence campaigners say many aspects of the current social union, including family, history, culture and language, will continue to flourish and strengthen.
| 7 years ago. Rating: 3 | |
terryfossil 1
