SNP leader unveils independence plans
Updated on 14 August 2007
Scotland's First Minister and SNP leader opens up a new conversation with the people about whether they should vote for independence
Unveiling what he called a "national conversation", Scotland's first minister Alex Salmond has set out plans for a referendum on Scottish independence, amid claims of wasting money and dividing the nation.
The 40-page white paper unveiled today includes the draft words that would be used on any referendum ballot paper, although the Scottish National Party leader says he would be happy to see other options included as well. However, opposition parties at Holyrood have accused the Scottish National Party (SNP) of wasting taxerpayers' money.
Watch our report from Edinburgh with our economics correspondent Faisal Islam reports and see the interview with Alex Salmond.
"We in the government believe that independence would be the best for our country. Others support increased devolution, or greater responsibility for taxes and spending, or federalism. But whatever the differences between the political parties, message of the election was obvious - the constitutional position of Scotland must move forward."Alex Salmond, Scotland's First Minister and SNP leader
What the document says
The document says more devolution, or independence, would need legislation probably both at Westminster and Holyrood. Substantially enhanced devolution would "arguably" - and independence would certainly - require public consent through a referendum.
The document sets out the Parliament's existing powers, and those reserved to Westminster, which include the constitution, national security, economic policy, immigration and nationality, and broadcasting.
It goes on to list extra powers that could go to Scotland within a devolved framework.
These include greater tax and spending responsibilities, economic policy, company and competition law, and Scotland "assuming responsibility" for oil and gas reserves in Scotland and Scottish waters.
Other areas where devolution could be extended include firearms law, employment and trade union law, broadcasting and a plethora of other policy areas.
The document then goes on to set out the independence option and how this would be negotiated between the Scottish and UK governments.
It also sets out the form of wording if this referendum is to be on independence. Scots would be asked whether they agree or disagree "that the Scottish government should negotiate a settlement with the government of the United Kingdom so that Scotland becomes an independent state".
