TODAY.AZ / Politics

Scotland to stage independence referendum

04 September 2009 [10:23] - TODAY.AZ
Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond has announced an independence referendum bill as the centrepiece of the SNP's plans for the coming year, BBC reported.
The Scottish Government wants to stage the independence referendum in 2010.

However, the minority administration's plan faces being rejected because of a lack of parliamentary support.

Mr Salmond revealed details of a total of 13 bills, including minimum alcohol pricing, marking the start of the SNP's third legislative session.

The first minister told MSPs there was a "consensus for change" on Scotland's constitutional status.

He said: "I want Scotland to have the same responsibilities and opportunities as similar nations.

"Until we can use all the economic and financial levers available to every other government in the world, Scotland will always be at a competitive disadvantage."

Mr Salmond said he had been "very proud" to lead the Scottish Government but warned a "glass ceiling" threatened to stall the country's progress.

"This government was elected with a popular mandate to put the question of Scotland's future to the vote in a referendum," he said.

"It is time for the people of Scotland to have their say. Not everyone will agree with our vision for the future, we know that.

"But the people of Scotland must be heard. This parliament should not stand in their way - let the people speak."

The Scottish Government has said it could be a multi-option referendum - and this could include the tax changes proposed by the Calman Commission on devolution. 
URL: http://www.today.az/news/politics/55280.html

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