Old page wikitext, before the edit (old_wikitext) | '{{current||current referendum campaign|date=September 2014}}
{{Use Scottish English|date=September 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2014}}
{{Infobox referendum
| name = Scottish Independence Referendum<br><small>Thursday, 18 September 2014</small>
| title = ''Should Scotland be an independent country?''
| yes =
| no =
| total =
| electorate = 4.3 million (as of September 2014;<br />aged 16+)<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-29160535 |title=Scottish independence: More than 4.2 million voters register ahead of referendum |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=11 September 2014 |accessdate=11 September 2014}}</ref>
| !DO NOT REMOVE THIS MESSAGE AND ADD MAP UNTIL 18 SEPTEMBER<map = Scottish independence referendum 2014 results map.svg>
| mapdivision = [[Scottish Parliament constituencies and regions|Scottish Parliament constituencies]]
| notes =
}}
{{Politics of Scotland}}
A [[referendum]] on whether [[Scotland]] should [[Scottish independence|be an independent country]]<!-- no bolding per [[WP:BOLDTITLE]] --> will take place on Thursday, 18 September 2014.<ref name="BBC 2013-03-21">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-16478121|title=Scotland to hold independence poll in 2014 – Salmond |date=10 January 2012 |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref>
Following an agreement between the [[Scottish Government|Scottish]] and the [[Government of the United Kingdom|United Kingdom governments]],<ref name="number10.gov.uk">{{cite web|url=http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20130109092234/http://www.number10.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Agreement-final-for-signing.pdf|format=PDF|title=Agreement between the United Kingdom Government and the Scottish Government on a referendum on independence for Scotland|date=15 October 2012|accessdate=May 2013}}</ref> the [[Scottish independence]] Referendum Bill, setting out the arrangements for this referendum, was put forward on 21 March 2013,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2012/05/referendum-consultation11052012 |title=Response to referendum consultation |publisher=Scotland.gov.uk |date= |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> passed by the [[Scottish Parliament]] on 14 November 2013 and received [[Royal Assent]] on 17 December 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/Bills/61076.aspx |title=Scottish Independence Referendum Bill |publisher=Scottish.parliament.uk |date= |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref><ref>{{UK-LEG|title=Scottish Independence Referendum Act 2013}}</ref>
The referendum question, as recommended by the [[Electoral Commission (United Kingdom)|Electoral Commission]], will be "Should Scotland be an independent country?" – voters can answer only Yes or No.<ref name="scotgovaccentsecreport">{{cite web|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2013/01/electoral-commission-report30012013|title=Government accepts all Electoral Commission recommendations|publisher=|accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref> With some exceptions, all residents in Scotland aged 16 or over can vote, a total of over 4 million people. To pass, the independence proposal requires a [[Majority|simple majority]].
[[Yes Scotland]] is the main campaign group for independence, while [[Better Together (campaign)|Better Together]] is the main campaign group to maintain the union. Many [[Endorsements in the Scottish independence referendum, 2014|other campaign groups, political parties, businesses, newspapers and prominent individuals]] have also been involved. Prominent issues raised during the campaign include which currency an independent Scotland would use, [[public expenditure]] and [[North Sea oil]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2014/sep/06/scottish-independence-everything-you-need-to-know-referendum|title=Scottish independence: a guide to the big decision – Politics – The Observer|work=the Guardian|accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref>
{{TOC limit}}
==History==
===Formation of Scotland and the United Kingdom===
Scotland, as it is known today, was formed by territorial evolution during the [[Middle Ages]]. The [[Kingdom of Scotland]] fought a series of [[wars of Scottish independence|wars of independence]] against the [[Kingdom of England]] during the 14th century. The two monarchies were in [[personal union]] from 1603 (the [[Union of the Crowns]]) when [[James VI of Scotland]] also became James I of England. The two nations were united under one government when [[Oliver Cromwell]] was declared [[Lord Protector]] of a [[Commonwealth of England|Commonwealth]] in 1653, but it was dissolved when the monarchy was [[restoration (England)|restored]] in 1660. The Kingdoms of Scotland and England united to form the [[Kingdom of Great Britain]] in [[Acts of Union 1707|1707]]. Great Britain in turn [[Acts of Union 1800|united]] with the [[Kingdom of Ireland]] in 1801 to form the United Kingdom. Most of Ireland left the Union in 1922, later forming the [[Republic of Ireland]]; thus the full name of the sovereign state today is the ''United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland''.
===Devolution===
The [[Labour Party (UK)|Labour Party]] was committed to home rule for Scotland in the 1920s, but it slipped down its agenda in the following years.<ref name = "devo hist">{{cite web |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/events/scotland_99/the_scottish_parliament/306850.stm |title=Devolution's swings and roundabouts |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=7 April 1999 |accessdate=28 August 2014}}</ref> The [[Scottish National Party]] (SNP) was formed in 1934, but did not achieve significant electoral success until the 1960s.<ref name = "devo hist"/> A document calling for home rule, the [[Scottish Covenant]], was signed by 2 million people (out of a population of 5 million) in the late 1940s.<ref name = "devo hist"/> Home rule, now known as [[Scottish devolution]], did not become a serious proposal until the late 1970s as the Labour government of [[Jim Callaghan]] came under electoral pressure from the SNP.<ref name = "devo hist"/>
A proposal for a devolved [[Scottish Assembly]] was put to a [[Scottish devolution referendum, 1979|referendum in 1979]], but this resulted in no change.<ref name = "1979 referendum"/> A narrow majority of votes were cast in favour of change, but the legislation was repealed due to a clause requiring that the number voting 'Yes' had to exceed 40% of the total electorate.<ref name = "1979 referendum">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/special/politics97/devolution/scotland/briefing/79referendums.shtml|title=The 1979 Referendums|work=[[BBC News]]|publisher=BBC|date=|accessdate=16 January 2012}}</ref> No further constitutional reform was proposed until Labour returned to power in 1997, when a [[Scottish devolution referendum, 1997|second Scottish devolution referendum]] was held.<ref name = "1997 referendum"/> Clear majorities expressed support for both a [[Devolution|devolved]] [[Scottish Parliament]] and that Parliament having the power to vary the basic rate of income tax.<ref name = "1997 referendum">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/special/politics97/devolution/scotland/live/index.shtml|title=Scottish Referendum Live – The Results|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=|accessdate=16 January 2012}}</ref> The [[Scotland Act 1998]] established the new Scottish Parliament, [[Scottish Parliament general election, 1999|first elected]] on 6 May 1999,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/business/officialReports/meetingsParliament/or-99/or010104.htm#Col7 |title=Scottish Parliament Official Report – 12 May 1999 |publisher=Scottish Parliament}}</ref> with power to legislate on [[Reserved matter|unreserved matters]] within Scotland.
===2007 SNP administration===
{{Further|Government of the 3rd Scottish Parliament}}
[[File:A National Conversation launch.jpg|right|thumb|The Scottish First Minister, [[Alex Salmond]], and the Deputy First Minister, [[Nicola Sturgeon]], at the launch of the [[National Conversation]], 14 August 2007]]
[[File:Scotland Parliament Holyrood.jpg|thumb|right|Debating chamber of the Scottish Parliament]]
A commitment to hold a referendum in 2010 was part of the SNP's [[election manifesto]] when it contested the [[Scottish Parliament election, 2007|2007 Scottish Parliament election]].<ref name=Manifesto12Apr2007/> As a result of that election, it became the largest party in the Scottish Parliament and formed a [[minority government]] led by the First Minister, [[Alex Salmond]].<ref name = "timeline">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-19907675 |title=Timeline: Scottish independence referendum |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=15 October 2012 |accessdate=15 October 2012}}</ref>
The SNP administration launched a '[[National Conversation]]' as a consultation exercise in August 2007, part of which included a draft referendum bill, the ''Referendum (Scotland) Bill''.<ref name = "timeline"/><ref name=DraftBill2007/> After this, a [[white paper]] for the proposed Referendum Bill was published, on 30 November 2009.<ref name=Independent30Nov09SNPReveals/><ref name=ScottishGovernment30Nov09NewsYSYV/> It detailed 4 possible scenarios, with the text of the Bill and Referendum to be revealed later.<ref name=Independent30Nov09SNPReveals/> The scenarios were: no change; devolution per the [[Commission on Scottish Devolution|Calman Review]]; further devolution; and full independence.<ref name=Independent30Nov09SNPReveals/> The Scottish government published a draft version of the bill on 25 February 2010 for public consultation;<ref name=BBC25Feb2010Published/><ref name=ScottishGovernmentNews25Feb2010ReferendumConsultation/> ''Scotland's Future: Draft Referendum (Scotland) Bill Consultation Paper'' contained a consultation document and a draft version of the bill.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/> The consultation paper set out the proposed ballot papers, the mechanics of the proposed referendum, and how the proposed referendum was to be regulated.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/> Public responses were invited.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultation25Feb2010/>
The bill outlined three proposals: the first was full devolution or 'devolution max', suggesting that the Scottish Parliament should be responsible for "all laws, taxes and duties in Scotland", with the exception of "defence and foreign affairs; financial regulation, monetary policy and the currency", which would be retained by the British government.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/> The 2nd proposal outlined Calman-type fiscal reform, gaining the additional powers and responsibilities of setting a Scottish rate of income tax that could vary by up to 10p in the [[Pound sterling|pound]] compared with the rest of the UK, setting the rate of [[Stamp duty in the United Kingdom|stamp duty land tax]] and "other minor taxes", and introducing new taxes in Scotland with the agreement of the UK Parliament, and finally, "limited power to borrow money".<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/> The 3rd proposal was for full independence.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/>
In the [[Members of the 3rd Scottish Parliament|third Scottish Parliament]], only 50 of 129 MSPs (47 SNP, 2 [[Scottish Green Party|Greens]], and [[Margo MacDonald]]) supported a referendum.<ref name=BBCQnA3Sep09/><ref name=Times3Sep09/> The Scottish government withdrew the bill after failing to secure opposition support.<ref name = "timeline"/><ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-11196967 | work=BBC News |publisher=BBC| title=Scottish independence plan 'an election issue' | date=6 September 2010|accessdate=17 January 2012}}</ref>
===2011 SNP administration===
{{Further|Government of the 4th Scottish Parliament}}
The SNP repeated its commitment to hold a referendum when it published its [[Scottish parliamentary election, 2011|2011 Scottish parliamentary election]] manifesto.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.stv.tv/scotland/243521-snp-launch-manifesto-with-50m-fund-for-young-scots/|title=SNP launch 'Re-elect' manifesto with independence referendum vow|first=Gavin|last=Stuart|work=STV|publisher=STV Group|date=14 April 2011|accessdate=17 January 2012}}</ref> Days before the election, Salmond stated that legislation for a referendum would be proposed in the "2nd half of the parliament", as he wanted to secure more powers for the Scottish Parliament via the [[Scotland Bill 2011|Scotland Bill]] first.<ref name = "tv debate">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-13255731|title=Scottish election: Party leaders clash in BBC TV debate|first=Andrew|last=Black|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=1 May 2011|accessdate=17 January 2012}}</ref> The SNP gained an overall [[majority]] in the election, winning 69 from 129 seats, thereby gaining a mandate to hold an independence referendum.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-13305522|title=Scottish election: SNP wins election|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=6 May 2011|accessdate=17 January 2012}}</ref><ref name = "contrary"/>
In January 2012, the UK government offered to legislate to provide the Scottish Parliament with the powers to hold a referendum, providing it was "fair, legal and decisive".<ref name = "contrary"/> This would set "terms of reference for the referendum", such as its question(s), elector eligibility and which body would organise the vote.<ref name = "chaos">{{cite news|url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/politics/independence-referendum-scotland-facing-constitutional-chaos-1.49754|title=Independence referendum: Scotland facing constitutional chaos|work=The Courier|publisher=DC Thomson|first=David|last=Clegg|date=11 January 2012|accessdate=9 January 2014}}</ref> As the UK government worked on legal details, including the timing of the vote, Salmond announced an intention to hold the referendum in the autumn of 2014.<ref name = "chaos"/> Negotiations continued between the two governments until October 2012, when the [[Edinburgh Agreement (2012)|Edinburgh Agreement]] was reached.<ref name = "timeline"/>
The Scottish Independence Referendum (Franchise) Act 2013 was passed by the Scottish Parliament on 27 June 2013 and received Royal Assent on 7 August 2013.<ref>{{UK-LEG|title=Scottish Independence Referendum (Franchise) Act 2013}}</ref> On 15 November 2013, the Scottish government published ''[[Scotland's Future]]'', a 670-page [[white paper]] laying out the case for independence and the means through which Scotland might become an independent country.<ref name="SF Reaction">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25088251|title=Scottish independence: Referendum White Paper unveiled|date=26 November 2013|accessdate=5 January 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref>
==Administration==
===Date and eligibility===
The Scottish government announced on 21 March 2013 that the referendum would be held on 18 September 2014.<ref name="BBC 2013-03-21" /> Some media reports mentioned that 2014 would be the 700th anniversary of the [[Battle of Bannockburn]]<ref name = "guardian 10 jan 2012">{{cite news|author=Severin Carrell and Nicholas Watt |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/jan/10/scottish-independence-salmond-poll-date |title=Scottish independence: Alex Salmond sets poll date – and defies London | Politics |publisher=The Guardian |date= 10 January 2012|accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref><ref name="heraldscotland1">{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/bannockburn-date-mooted-for-referendum.16330813 |title=Bannockburn date mooted for referendum |publisher=Herald Scotland |date=2 January 2012 |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> and that Scotland would also host the [[2014 Commonwealth Games]] and the [[2014 Ryder Cup]].<ref name="heraldscotland1"/> Salmond agreed that the presence of these events made 2014 a "good year to hold a referendum".<ref name="econ">{{cite news|url=http://www.economist.com/node/21542806 |title=Scotland's referendum: If at first you don't succeed |publisher=The Economist |date= 14 January 2012|accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref>
Under the terms of the 2010 Draft Bill, the following people would be entitled to vote in the referendum:<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/>
* [[British citizen]]s who are resident in Scotland;
* [[Commonwealth citizen|citizen]]s of the 52 other [[Commonwealth of Nations|Commonwealth]] countries who are resident in Scotland;
* citizens of the 27 other European Union countries who are resident in Scotland;
* members of the [[House of Lords]] who are resident in Scotland;
* Service/Crown personnel serving in the UK or overseas in the [[British Armed Forces]] or with Her Majesty's Government who are registered to vote in Scotland.
Convicted prisoners may not vote in the referendum. The [[European Court of Human Rights]] earlier ruled that this restriction was unlawful, but Lord Glennie said that he believed the ECHR judgment would apply only to parliamentary elections.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-25446924 |title=Scottish independence: Killers lose referendum vote bid |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=19 December 2013 |accessdate=2 July 2014}}</ref> Appeals against his ruling were rejected by the Court of Session in Edinburgh<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28128599 |title=Scottish independence: Killers fail to win referendum vote |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=2 July 2014 |accessdate=2 July 2014}}</ref> and the [[UK Supreme Court]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-28442439 |title=Scottish independence: Killers fail to get referendum vote |first=Reevel |last=Alderson |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=24 July 2014 |accessdate=25 July 2014}}</ref>
The Scottish government passed legislation to reduce the [[voting age]] for the referendum from 18 to 16, as it is SNP policy to reduce the voting age for all elections in Scotland.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/><ref name = "viewpoint">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-19908031 |title=Viewpoints: Can 16- and-17-year olds be trusted with the vote? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=14 October 2012 |accessdate=14 October 2012}}</ref><ref name="Macdonnell">{{cite news|url=http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/news/uk/scotland/article3167034.ece|title=16-year-olds likely to get the vote on Union split|last=Macdonnell|first=Hamish|date=17 September 2011|work=The Times Scotland|publisher=Times Newspapers Limited|accessdate=18 September 2011|location=London}}</ref> The move was supported by Labour, the Liberal Democrats, and the Scottish Greens.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-21741448|title=Scottish independence: Bill to lower voting age lodged|date=12 March 2013|accessdate=31 December 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-23074572|title=Scottish independence: Referendum voting age bill approved by MSPs|date=27 June 2013|accessdate=31 December 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref>
In January 2012, [[Elaine Murray]] MSP of Labour led a debate arguing that the franchise should be extended to Scots living outside Scotland, including the approximately 800,000 living in the other parts of the UK.<ref name = "extended vote"/> This was opposed by the Scottish government, which argued that it would greatly increase the complexity of the referendum and stated that there was evidence from the [[United Nations Human Rights Committee]] that other nations "might question the legitimacy of a referendum if the franchise is not territorial".<ref name = "extended vote">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-16607480|title=Scottish independence: SNP dismisses ex-pat voting call|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=18 January 2012|accessdate=19 January 2012}}</ref>
In the House of Lords, [[Elizabeth Symons, Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean|Baroness Symons]] argued that the rest of the UK should be allowed to vote on Scottish independence, on the grounds that it would affect the whole country. This argument was rejected by the British government, as the [[Advocate General for Scotland]] [[Jim Wallace, Baron Wallace of Tankerness|Lord Wallace]] said that "whether or not Scotland should leave the United Kingdom is a matter for Scotland".<ref name = "extended vote"/> Wallace also pointed to the fact that only two of 11 referenda since 1973 had been across all of the United Kingdom.<ref name = "extended vote"/> Professor John Curtice has also argued that the [[Northern Ireland sovereignty referendum, 1973|Northern Ireland sovereignty referendum of 1973]] created a precedent for allowing only those resident in one part of the UK to vote on its sovereignty.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-19962267|title=Ulster Scots and Scottish independence|date=16 October 2012|accessdate=31 December 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref>
===Legality===
There was debate as to whether the Scottish Parliament had the power to legislate for a referendum relating to the issue of Scottish independence, as the constitution is a reserved matter for the [[parliament of the United Kingdom|UK Parliament]].<ref name=BBCQnA3Sep09/> The Scottish government insisted in 2010 that they could legislate for a referendum, as it would be an "advisory [[referendum]] on extending the powers of the Scottish Parliament",<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultation25Feb2010/> whose result would "have no legal effect on the Union".<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/>{{rp|17}} Lord Wallace, Advocate General for Scotland, said in January 2012 that the holding of any referendum concerning the constitution would be outside the legislative power of the Scottish Parliament<ref name = "contrary">{{cite news|url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/politics/advocate-general-says-snp-s-referendum-plans-would-be-contrary-to-the-rule-of-law-1.49938|title=Advocate General says SNP's referendum plans would be 'contrary to the rule of law'|work=The Courier|publisher=DC Thomson|first=David|last=Clegg|date=17 January 2012|accessdate=9 January 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|first=Andrew|last=Whitaker|url=http://www.scotsman.com/the-scotsman/politics/scottish_independence_referendum_publish_legal_advice_or_be_damned_snp_warned_over_referendum_1_2061982 |title=Scottish independence referendum: Publish legal advice or be damned, SNP warned over referendum|work=[[The Scotsman]]|date=18 January 2012|accessdate=19 January 2012|publisher=Johnston Press}}</ref> and that private individuals could challenge a Scottish Parliament referendum bill.<ref name = "wallace">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-16638746|title=Scottish independence: Referendum vote 'needs approval'|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=20 January 2012|accessdate=21 January 2012}}</ref>
The two governments signed the [[Edinburgh Agreement (2012)|Edinburgh Agreement]], which allowed for the temporary transfer of legal authority. In accordance with the Edinburgh Agreement, the UK government drafted an [[Order in Council]] granting the Scottish Parliament the necessary powers to hold, on or before 31 December 2014, an independence referendum. The draft Order was approved by resolutions of both Houses of Parliament, and the Order, titled ''The Scotland Act 1998 (Modification of Schedule 5) Order 2013'' was approved by The Queen, following the advice of Her Ministers, at a meeting of the [[Privy Council of the United Kingdom|Privy Council]] on 12 February 2013.<ref>http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2013/242/pdfs/uksi_20130242_en.pdf</ref> Under the powers temporarily transferred from Westminster under the section 30 Order, the Scottish Parliament adopted the ''Scottish Independence Referendum Act 2013'',<ref>http://www.legislation.gov.uk/asp/2013/14/pdfs/asp_20130014_en.pdf</ref> summoning the referendum, defining the question to be asked ("Should Scotland be an independent country?") and the date on which the referendum is to be held (18 September 2014) and establishing the rules governing the holding of the referendum. The Bill for the said Act was passed by the Scottish Parliament on 14 November 2013 and received [[Royal Assent]] on 17 December 2013. Under section 36 of the Act, it came into force on 18 December 2013, the day after Royal Assent.
===Oversight===
The [[Electoral Commission (United Kingdom)|Electoral Commission]] is responsible for overseeing the referendum, "with the exception of the conduct of the poll and announcement of the result, and the giving of grants. In its role of regulating the campaign and campaign spending, the Electoral Commission will report to the Scottish Parliament. ... The poll and count will be managed in the same way as [... local] elections, by local returning officers ... and directed by a Chief Counting Officer."<ref name="number10.gov.uk"/>
===Question===
The Edinburgh Agreement stated that the wording of the question would be decided by the Scottish Parliament and reviewed by the Electoral Commission for intelligibility.<ref name="number10.gov.uk"/> The Scottish government stated that its preferred question was "Do you agree that Scotland should be an independent country?" <ref name = "new question"/> The Electoral Commission tested the proposed question along with three other possible versions.<ref name = "tests"/> Their research found that the "Do you agree" preface meant that it was a [[leading question]], which would be more likely to garner a positive response.<ref name = "new question"/> The question was amended to "Should Scotland be an independent country?", which the Electoral Commission found was the most neutral and concise of the versions tested.<ref name = "new question">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-21245701 |title=Scottish independence: SNP accepts call to change referendum question |first=Andrew |last=Black |work=BBC Sport |publisher=BBC |date=30 January 2013 |accessdate=30 January 2013}}</ref><ref name = "tests">http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/153689/Ipsos-MORI-Scotland-question-testing-report-24-January-2013.pdf</ref>
The clarity and brevity of the question used in Scotland has been contrasted with the longer formulations used in the sovereignty referenda held in [[Quebec]] in [[Quebec sovereignty referendum, 1980|1980]] and [[Quebec sovereignty referendum, 1995|1995]].<ref name = "new question"/><ref name = "quebec question">{{cite news |url=http://opencanada.org/features/blogs/roundtable/obstacles-to-independence-in-quebec/#.U0MTagb3r9s.twitter |title=Obstacles to Independence in Quebec |first=Kyle |last=Matthews |work=www.opencanada.org |publisher= |date=1 April 2014 |accessdate=8 April 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2014/03/24/jonathan-kay-scotland-shows-quebec-what-an-intelligent-and-mature-separatist-movement-looks-like/ |title=Jonathan Kay: Scotland shows Quebec what an intelligent and mature independence movement looks like |first=Jonathan |last=Kay |work=National Post |publisher=Post Media |date=24 March 2014 |accessdate=26 June 2014}}</ref>
===Campaign===
====Campaign organisations====
The campaign in favour of Scottish independence, [[Yes Scotland]], was launched on 25 May 2012.<ref name = "yes scotland">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-18162832|title=Scottish independence: One million Scots urged to sign 'yes' declaration |work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=25 May 2012|accessdate=18 July 2012}}</ref> Its chief executive is [[Blair Jenkins]],<ref name = "yes scotland"/> formerly the Director of Broadcasting at [[Scottish Television|STV]] and Head of News and Current Affairs at both STV and [[BBC Scotland]]. The campaign is supported by the SNP,<ref name = "yes scotland"/> the Scottish Green Party (which also created "its own pro-independence campaign to run alongside Yes Scotland"<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-19858857 |title=Scottish independence: Greens join Yes Scotland campaign |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=6 October 2012 |accessdate=7 October 2012}}</ref>) and the [[Scottish Socialist Party]]. At its launch, Salmond stated that he hoped one million people in Scotland would sign a declaration of support for independence.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-20539259|title=Scottish independence: Yes Scotland signs up 143,000 supporters |date=30 November 2012|accessdate=31 July 2013|work=BBC News |publisher=BBC}}</ref> On 22 August 2014, Yes Scotland announced that the one million target had been surpassed.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-28894313 |title=Scottish independence: Yes declaration hits million target |date=22 August 2014 |accessdate=22 August 2014 |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC}}</ref>
The campaign in favour of Scotland remaining in the UK, [[Better Together (campaign)|Better Together]], was launched on 25 June 2012.<ref name = "better together">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-18572750|title=Scottish independence: Alistair Darling warns of 'no way back'|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=25 June 2012|accessdate=18 July 2012}}</ref> It is led by [[Alistair Darling]], former [[Chancellor of the Exchequer]], and has support from the Conservative Party, Labour Party and Liberal Democrats.<ref name = "better together"/>
====Campaign funding and costs====
In the 2010 Draft Bill, the Scottish government proposed that there would be a designated organisation campaigning for a 'Yes' vote and a designated organisation campaigning for a 'No' vote, both of which would be permitted to spend up to £750,000 on their campaign and to send one free [[mailshot]] to every household or voter in the referendum franchise. There was to be no public funding for campaigns. Political parties were each to be allowed to spend £100,000.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/> This proposed limit on party spending was revised to £250,000 in 2012.<ref name = "campaign cash battle">{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/scottish-independence-salmond-in-campaign-cash-battle-1-2573978 |first=Eddie |last=Barnes |title=Scottish independence: Salmond in campaign cash battle |work=Scotland on Sunday |publisher =Johnston Publishing |date=14 October 2012 |accessdate=14 October 2012}}</ref>
In 2013, new proposals by the Electoral Commission for the 16-week regulated period preceding the poll were accepted. They allow the two designated campaign organisations to spend up to £1.5 million each and for the parties in Scotland to spend the following amounts: £1,344,000 (SNP); £834,000 (Labour); £396,000 (Conservatives); £201,000 (Liberal Democrats); £150,000 (Greens).<ref name = "new question"/> An unlimited number of other organisations can register with the Electoral Commission, but their spending is limited to £150,000.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27228971 |title=Scottish independence: Questions raised over campaign spending rules |first=Lucy |last=Adams |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=1 May 2014 |accessdate=1 May 2014}}</ref>
According to the Scottish government's consultation paper published on 25 February 2010, the cost of the referendum was "likely to be around £9.5 million", mostly spent on running the poll and the count. Costs would also include the posting of one neutral information leaflet about the referendum to every Scottish household, and one free mailshot to every household or voter in the poll for the designated campaign organisations.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/> As of April 2013, the projected cost of the referendum was £13.3 million.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-22014286|title=Scottish independence: Referendum cost estimated at £13.3m |publisher=BBC |date=3 April 2013|accessdate=14 May 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref>
=====Donations=====
In December 2013 the Better Together campaign declared that it had received donations of £2.8 million.<ref name="money2">{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/10893567/JK-Rowling-subjected-to-Cybnernat-abuse-after-1m-pro-UK-donation.html|title=JK Rowling Subjected to Cybnernat Abuse After £1m Pro-UK Donation |publisher=The Daily Telegraph|date=11 June 2014|accessdate=11 June 2014}}</ref> Six-figure contributions were made by businessmen [[Ian Taylor (British businessman)|Ian Taylor]] and Donald Houston, and by author [[C. J. Sansom]]; almost 27,000 donations of under £7,500 had been received by the same date.<ref name="money1" /> A later donation came from writer [[J. K. Rowling]], who announced in June 2014 that she had given £1 million.<ref name="money2" /><ref name="money1">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27798020|title=Scottish Independence: Who Are the Big and Small Money Referendum Donors?|publisher=BBC |date=11 June 2014|accessdate=11 June 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref> In the following month, whisky distiller [[William Grant & Sons]] announced a donation of approximately £100,000.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28183123|title=Scottish Independence: Distiller William Grant and Sons Donates to Better Together|publisher=BBC |date=6 July 2014|accessdate=8 July 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref> On 12 August 2014 Better Together announced that it had raised enough money to cover the maximum spending permitted and was no longer accepting donations.<ref name="enough">{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/11029881/Better-Together-calls-for-no-more-donations-after-post-TV-debate-flood-of-cash.html|title=Better Together calls for no more donations after post-TV debate flood of cash|publisher=The Daily Telegraph|date=13 August 2014|accessdate=13 August 2014|work=}}</ref> This was attributed in part to a large number of small donations being received after the first televised debate between Salmond and Darling.<ref name="enough" />
As of May 2014, the Yes Scotland campaign had declared £4.5 million in cash donations.<ref name="money2" /><ref name="money1" /> [[EuroMillions]] lottery-winners Chris and Colin Weir gave £3.5 million.<ref name="money2" /> A six-figure donation was given by investment fund manager Angus Tulloch; approximately 18,000 donations of less than £7,500 had been made by the same date.<ref name="money1" />
====Advertising====
Political advertising on television and radio in the UK is prohibited by the [[Communications Act 2003]], with the exception of permitted [[party political broadcast]]s.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-22238582 |title=European Court upholds UK political advert ban |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=22 April 2013 |accessdate=30 May 2014}}</ref> Three major cinema chains stopped showing adverts by referendum campaign groups after receiving negative feedback from their customers.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27602601 |title=Scottish independence: Cinemas pull referendum adverts |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=28 May 2014 |accessdate=30 May 2014}}</ref>
===Voting process===
Voting for the referendum commenced on 27 August 2014, with the receipt of ballots by postal voters. As of 15 August, 680,235 eligible voters had registered for postal voting, a 20% increase compared to March 2014.<ref name = "postal">{{Cite news|url = http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28741264|work= BBC News |publisher=BBC |title=Scottish Independence: The popular rise of postal voting|last = |first = |date = 26 August 2014|accessdate = 29 August 2014}}</ref> During the postal vote phase, Police Scotland arrested a 28-year-old man from Drumchapel, Glasgow, on suspicion of selling his vote on [[eBay]].<ref>{{Cite news|url = http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28996416|title = BBC News – Scottish independence: Man arrested after votes 'for sale' on eBay|last = |first = |date = 30 August 2014|work = BBC News |accessdate = 30 August 2014}}</ref>
The registration deadline for referendum voters was 2 September 2014.<ref name = "postal"/> Several councils reported the processing of "unprecedented" numbers of new registrations, while others received "tens of thousands" of applications in the final week—the BBC reported on 2 September: "Figures obtained by Scotland 2014 show in the past seven days Glasgow received more than 9,000 applications, Renfrewshire 5,000, and Shetland and Orkney almost 1,000."<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-29024311 |title=Scottish independence: Thousands in late rush to register to vote |first=Lucy |last=Adams |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=2 September 2014 |accessdate=2 September 2014}}</ref>
===Outcome===
The UK government has stated that if a simple majority of the votes cast are in favour of independence, then "Scotland would become an independent country after a process of negotiations".<ref name = "outcome">{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/scottish-independence-referendum/about |title=Scottish independence referendum |work=www.gov.uk |publisher=UK Government |date= |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref><ref name = "agreement">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27906062 |title=Scottish independence: Post-referendum agreement reached |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=18 June 2014 |accessdate=18 June 2014}}</ref> If the majority is against independence, Scotland would continue within the United Kingdom.<ref name = "outcome"/><ref name = "agreement"/> Further powers would be devolved to the Scottish Parliament as a result of the [[Scotland Act 2012]].<ref name = "outcome"/><ref name = "agreement"/> The Electoral Commission prepared an information leaflet which confirmed that the UK and Scottish governments had reached agreement on these points.<ref name = "agreement"/>
==Issues==
===Agriculture===
In 2013, as part of a European Union (EU) member state, Scottish farmers received £583 million in subsidy payments from the EU under the [[Common Agricultural Policy]] (CAP).<ref name = "farmers views">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27201675 |title=Scottish independence: Farmers give their views on referendum debate |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=29 April 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014 |first=Laura |last=Bicker}}</ref> Annual CAP payments are made to the UK, which then determines how much to allocate to each of the devolved administrations, including Scotland.<ref name = "farmers impact">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27195830 |title=Scottish independence:How might a 'Yes' vote impact on farmers?|work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=29 April 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014 |first=Colletta |last=Smith}}</ref> In the last CAP agreement, farmers in the UK qualified for additional convergence payments because Scottish farmers receive a lower average single farm payment per hectare, mainly due to the mountainous terrain in Scotland.<ref name = "farmers impact"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.scotland.gov.uk/News/Scotland-s-CAP-budget-cut-5f7.aspx |title=Scotland's CAP budget cut |work= |publisher=Scottish Government |date=8 November 2013 |accessdate=4 June 2014}}</ref> Supporters of independence therefore believe that an independent Scotland would receive greater agricultural subsidies than at present.<ref name = "farmers impact"/> Opponents of independence believe that Scottish farmers benefit because the UK is one of the larger EU member states and therefore has a greater say in CAP negotiations.<ref name = "farmers impact"/> They also question whether an independent Scotland would immediately receive full subsidy payments from the EU, as other states which have recently joined have had their subsidies phased in.<ref name = "farmers impact"/>
===Border controls and immigration===
The UK has some [[Opt-outs in the European Union|opt-outs from EU policies]]. One is the opt-out from the [[Schengen Area]], meaning there are full passport checks for travellers from other EU countries except Ireland, which is part of the [[Common Travel Area]] (CTA) with the UK. The Scottish government proposes that an independent Scotland should remain outside the Schengen Area and join the CTA,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2013/11/5894/16|title=Annex 7: Schengen and the Common Travel Area|accessdate=4 June 2014}}</ref><ref name = "guardian border"/> ensuring that no passport controls would be needed at the [[Anglo-Scottish border]]. Nicola Sturgeon commented that an independent Scotland would negotiate with the EU to have the same visa arrangements as the UK has.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmselect/cmfaff/uc643-iv/uc643.pdf|title=The Foreign Policy Implications of and for an Independent Scotland|date=28 January 2013|accessdate=4 June 2014}}</ref> In May 2014, Labour MEP David Martin told the ''[[Sunday Herald]]'' that he believed the EU was "not going to force Scotland to join Schengen".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/labour-mep-independence-no-barrier-to-eu-membership.24250593|title=Labour MEP: 'independence no barrier to EU membership'|date=18 May 2014|accessdate=4 June 2014|publisher= |work=Sunday Herald}}</ref>
[[Alistair Carmichael]], the Secretary of State for Scotland, said in January 2014 that it would make sense for Scotland to be in the CTA, but it would have to operate similar immigration policies to the rest of the UK.<ref name = "guardian border"/> This position was supported by Home Secretary [[Theresa May]], who said in March 2014 that passport checks should be introduced if Scotland adopted a looser immigration policy.<ref name = "guardian border">{{cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2014/mar/14/passport-checks-needed-between-independent-scotland-and-england |title=Theresa May would seek passport checks between Scotland and England |first=Severin |last=Carrell |work=The Guardian |publisher= |date=14 March 2014 |accessdate=1 May 2014}}</ref> [[Richard Bacon (politician)|Richard Bacon]], Conservative MP for [[South Norfolk (UK Parliament constituency)|South Norfolk]], said there would be "no reason" for border controls to be implemented.<ref>{{cite video|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etwumT54Vik|title=Tory MP rubbishes border claims|date=4 November 2013|accessdate=21 August 2014}}</ref>
===Childcare===
In the white paper ''Scotland's Future'', the Scottish government pledged to expand childcare provision in an independent Scotland.<ref name = "childcare">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25114249 |title=Scottish independence: Alex Salmond outlines childcare 'savings' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=27 November 2013 |accessdate=3 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-26587040 |title=Scottish independence: Could Scotland afford better childcare? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=25 March 2014 |accessdate=3 May 2014}}</ref> The paper states that this policy would cost £700 million, but that this would be financed by increased tax revenue from an additional 100,000 women returning to work.<ref name = "childcare"/>
Scottish Labour leader [[Johann Lamont]] said that the policy should be implemented immediately if the Scottish government believed it would have a beneficial effect,<ref name = "childcare"/> but Salmond responded that under devolution the costs of the policy would have to be financed by cuts elsewhere in public expenditure.<ref name = "childcare"/> In March 2014, the National Day Nurseries Association said that the plan could not be implemented unless greater funding was provided by local authorities to private nurseries.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-26033775 |title=Scottish independence: Childcare plan 'unworkable' without more funds |first=Marianne |last=Taylor |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=25 March 2014 |accessdate=3 May 2014}}</ref> A report by the Scottish Parliament Information Centre questioned the economic benefit of the policy, pointing out that there were only 64,000 mothers of children aged between 1 and 5 who were economically inactive.<ref name = "inactive">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26877767 |title=Scottish independence: Scottish government childcare plan questioned |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=3 April 2014 |accessdate=3 May 2014}}</ref> A spokesman for Salmond said that the estimated total 104,000 women would enter the workforce over a longer period, as future generations of mothers would also be able to work, stating: "The key point about the policy is that it doesn't happen on one day or one year and then cease."<ref name = "inactive"/>
===Citizenship===
The Scottish government proposes that all Scottish-born British citizens would automatically become Scottish citizens on the date of independence, regardless of whether or not they were then living in Scotland. British citizens "habitually resident" in Scotland would also be considered Scottish citizens, [[Multiple citizenship|even if they already held the citizenship of another country]]. Every person who would automatically be considered a Scottish citizen would be able to opt out of Scottish citizenship provided they already held the citizenship of another country.<ref name="citizens">{{cite web|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/scotland-citizenship-passport-plans-outlined-1-3209022|title=Scotland citizenship, passport plans outlined|date=26 November 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013 |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing}}</ref> The Scottish government also proposes that anyone with a Scottish parent or grandparent will be able to apply for registration as a Scottish citizen, and any foreign national living in Scotland legally, or who has lived in Scotland for at least 10 years at any time and has an ongoing connection to Scotland, shall be able to apply for naturalisation as a Scottish citizen.<ref name="citizens"/> The UK Home Secretary, Theresa May, said future policies of an independent Scottish government would affect whether Scottish citizens would be allowed to retain British citizenship.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/key-questions-on-independence-white-paper-answered-1-3209904|title=Key questions on independence white paper answered|date=27 November 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013 |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing}}</ref> An analysis paper published by the UK government in January 2014 stated that it is likely that Scots would be able to hold dual citizenship.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/scots-to-stay-british-despite-vote.23257477 |title=Scots to stay British despite vote |first=Magnus |last=Gardham |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |date=24 January 2014 |accessdate=22 May 2014}}</ref>
===Defence===
====Budget====
The SNP have said that there was a defence underspend of "at least £7.4 billion" between 2002 and 2012 in Scotland and that independence would allow the Scottish government to correct this imbalance.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.snp.org/media-centre/news/2013/jan/uk-caught-red-handed-scotlands-underspend|title=UK caught "red-handed" on Scotland's underspend |work=www.snp.org |publisher=Scottish National Party |date=21 January 2013|accessdate=22 January 2014}}</ref> In its white paper, the Scottish government plans that an independent Scotland would have a total of 15,000 regular and 5,000 reserve personnel across land, air and maritime forces by 2026.<ref name = "white paper">{{cite web|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2013/11/9348/7|title=Scotland's Future |work= |publisher=Scottish Government |accessdate=31 March 2014 |date=November 2013}}</ref> In July 2013, the SNP proposed that there would be a £2.5 billion annual military budget in an independent Scotland.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/scottish-independence-snp-s-clyde-warships-plan-1-2985124|title=SNP's Clyde warships plan |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=3 July 2013|accessdate=3 July 2013}}</ref> The House of Commons Defence Select Committee said that the £2.5bn budget was too low.<ref name=Defence>{{cite news|last=Morris|first=Nigel|title=Alex Salmond's SNP plans for Scottish independence criticised for lacking crucial detail over defence plans|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/alex-salmonds-snp-plans-for-scottish-independence-criticised-for-lacking-crucial-detail-over-defence-plans-8842555.html|newspaper=The Independent|date=27 September 2013}}</ref> [[Andrew Murrison]], UK [[Minister for International Security Strategy]] agreed and said it was "risible" for the SNP to suggest it could create an independent force by "salami-slicing" from current British armed forces units.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/10445747/A-budget-of-2.5-billion-will-not-buy-Scottish-Defence-Force-wishlist-warns-defence-minister.html |title=A budget of £2.5 billion will not buy Scottish Defence Force wishlist, warns defence minister |work=Daily Telegraph |publisher=Telegraph Media Group |date=13 November 2013 |accessdate=15 April 2014 |first=Auslan |last=Cramb}}</ref>
The House of Commons defence committee also stated that Scottish independence would have a negative effect on its industry,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.leftfootforward.org/2013/09/snp-defence-plans-slammed/ |title=SNP defence plans slammed |publisher=Left Foot Forward |date=27 September 2013 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref> while the UK government said it would not be willing to build warships in a foreign country.<ref>{{cite news|author=Nigel Morris |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/shipyards-jobs-axe-an-independent-scotland-could-lose-key-royal-navy-contracts-8925338.html |title=Shipyards jobs axe: an Independent Scotland 'could lose key Royal Navy contracts' – UK Politics – UK |publisher=The Independent |date=6 November 2013 |accessdate=2014-08-26}}</ref> Geoff Searle, the director of BAE Systems' Type 26 Global Combat Ship programme, said in June 2014 that the company had no alternative plan for shipbuilding,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/38732/bae-systems-continues-type-26-key-equipment-selections-recommends-single-site-build-plan |publisher=Janes |date=3 June 2014 |accessdate=5 September 2014 |title=BAE Systems continues Type 26 key equipment selections, recommends single-site build plan}}</ref> but this position was later revised by the Chairman of BAE, who stated that they could resume shipbuilding in the English city of [[Portsmouth]] if an independent Scotland was established.<ref>{{cite web|author= |url=http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/defence/shipbuilding-could-return-to-portsmouth-says-bae-systems-chairman-1-6166551 |title=Shipbuilding could return to Portsmouth, says BAE Systems chairman – Portsmouth News |publisher=Portsmouth.co.uk |date=8 July 2014 |accessdate=2014-08-26}}</ref>
The [[Royal United Services Institute]] said in 2012 that an independent Scotland could set up a Scottish Defence Force, comparable in size and strength to those of other small European states like Denmark, Norway and Ireland, at an annual cost of £1.8 billion.<ref name = "rusi"/> The authors acknowledged that an independent Scotland would "need to come to some arrangement with the rest of the UK" on intelligence-gathering, cyber-warfare and cyber-defence, that the future cost of purchasing and maintaining equipment of its forces might be higher due to smaller orders, and that recruitment and training "may prove problematic" in the early years.<ref name = "rusi">{{cite web |url=http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N507BDE949F81D/#.UHv7bb9y9E4 |title=A' the Blue Bonnets: Defending an Independent Scotland |work=www.rusi.org |publisher=[[Royal United Services Institute]] |date=15 October 2012 |accessdate=15 October 2012}}</ref>
Dorcha Lee, a former colonel in the Irish Army, said that Scotland could eschew forming an army based on inherited resources from the British Army and instead follow an Irish model of a limited self-defence force.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/comment/columnists/irish-lesson-for-independent-scottish-forces.20785666|title=Irish lesson for independent Scottish forces |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |date=14 April 2013|accessdate=22 January 2014}}</ref>
====Nuclear weapons====
[[File:Trident boat.jpg|thumb|right|A [[Trident missile]]-armed [[Vanguard class submarine|''Vanguard'' class]] [[ballistic missile submarine]] leaving its base in the [[Firth of Clyde]].]]
The [[Trident nuclear missile system]] is based at [[Coulport]] weapons depot and naval base of [[Faslane]] in the [[Firth of Clyde]] area. While the SNP objects to having nuclear weapons on Scottish territory, British military leaders have said that there is no alternative site for the missiles;<ref>{{cite news|author=Richard Norton-Taylor |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2012/jan/29/trident-nuclear-deterrent-scotland-independence |title=Trident nuclear deterrent 'at risk' if Scotland votes for independence |publisher=The Guardian |date= 29 January 2012|accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newstatesman.com/blogs/the-staggers/2012/01/nuclear-scotland-submarines |title=What would Scottish independence mean for Trident? |publisher=New Statesman |date= |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> in April 2014, several British military leaders co-signed a letter stating that forcing Trident to leave Scottish waters would place the [[Nuclear weapons and the United Kingdom|UK nuclear deterrent]] in jeopardy.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/scottish-politics/10765229/Alex-Salmonds-Trident-plan-would-put-UK-nuclear-deterrent-in-jeopardy.html |title=Alex Salmond's Trident plan 'would put UK nuclear deterrent in jeopardy' |work=The Daily Telegraph |publisher=Telegraph Media Group |first=Ben |last=Riley-Smith |date=14 April 2014 |accessdate=}}</ref> ''Nowhere to Go'', a report by [[Scottish CND]], concludes that the removal of Trident from Scotland would force unilateral nuclear disarmament by the United Kingdom, as the weapons have no viable alternative base.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cnduk.org/information/briefings/trident-briefings/item/1324-trident-nowhere-to-go|title=Trident: Nowhere to Go|accessdate=4 June 2014}}</ref> A report by the Royal United Services Institute said that relocating Trident would be "very difficult, but not impossible" and estimated that it would take about 10 years and create an additional cost of around £3 billion.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28775848 |title=Scottish independence: Trident relocation 'very difficult but not impossible' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=14 August 2014 |accessdate=14 August 2014}}</ref>
A seminar hosted by the [[Carnegie Endowment for International Peace]] stated that the [[Royal Navy]] would have to consider a range of alternatives, including disarmament.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nti.org/gsn/article/scottish-independence-may-have-serious-repercussions-us-trident-missile-program/ |title=Scottish Independence May Impact U.S. Trident Missile Program | Global Security Newswire |publisher=NTI |date= |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> British MP [[Ian Davidson (Scottish politician)|Ian Davidson]] cited a UK report published by the [[Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament]] that suggested that the warheads could be deactivated within days and safely removed in 24 months.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nti.rsvp1.com/gsn/article/q-british-mp-presses-scots-how-quickly-uk-nukes-may-be-banned/?mgh=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nti.org&mgf=1|title="Q&A: British MP Presses Scots on How Quickly U.K. Nukes May be Banned"|work=NTI: Nuclear Threat Initiative|accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref> A report in 2013 from the [[Scotland Institute]] think tank suggested a future Scottish government could be convinced to lease the Faslane nuclear base to the rest of the UK to maintain good diplomatic relations and expedite [[NATO]] entry negotiations.<ref name=military>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/10139820/Independent-Scotland-faces-dilemma-between-Trident-and-Nato.html|title=Independent Scotland 'faces dilemma between Trident and Nato'|date=24 June 2013|accessdate=29 June 2013|work=The Daily Telegraph|first=Simon|last=Johnson}}</ref>
====NATO membership====
[[File:Location NATO 2009 blue.svg|thumb|Current map of [[NATO]], member states shown in dark blue]]
In 2012 the SNP dropped a long-standing policy of opposition in principle to NATO membership.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-19993694 |title=SNP members vote to ditch the party's anti-Nato policy |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=19 October 2012 |accessdate=19 October 2012}}</ref> MSPs [[John Finnie]] and [[Jean Urquhart]] resigned from the SNP over the policy change.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2012/oct/23/msps-resign-snp-nato-stance |title=Two MSPs resign from SNP over party's Nato stance |work=The Guardian |publisher= |date=23 October 2012|accessdate=17 December 2013}}</ref> The Scottish Green Party and Scottish Socialist Party remain opposed to continued membership of NATO.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/one-year-on-how-was-it-for-them.21173387|title=ONE YEAR ON: HOW WAS IT FOR THEM? |work=The Herald |publisher= |date=25 May 2013|accessdate=17 December 2013}}</ref>
The SNP position that Trident nuclear weapons should be removed from Scotland but that it should hold NATO membership has been criticised by [[Willie Rennie]], leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2013/aug/15/alex-salmond-nuclear-nato-ban|title=Alex Salmond told nuclear ban out of line with being in Nato|date=15 August 2013|accessdate=17 December 2013}}</ref> and [[Patrick Harvie]], co-convenor of the Scottish Green Party.<ref name="theguardian.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/aug/15/alex-salmond-trident-nuclear-base|title=Alex Salmond accused of misleading voters over Trident base promises|date=15 August 2013|accessdate=17 December 2013}}</ref> Alex Salmond said it would be "perfectly feasible" to join NATO while maintaining an anti-nuclear stance and that Scotland would pursue NATO membership only "subject to an agreement that Scotland will not host nuclear weapons and NATO continues to respect the right of members to only take part in UN sanctioned operations".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-19993694|title=SNP members vote to ditch the party's anti-Nato policy |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=19 October 2012|accessdate=17 December 2013}}</ref> In 2013, Professor Malcolm Chalmers of the Royal United Services Institute stated that "pragmatists" in the SNP accepted that NATO membership would be likely to involve a long-term basing deal enabling the UK to keep Trident on the Clyde.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2013/aug/14/nato-blow-snp-nuclear-strategy |title=Nato chiefs deal blow to SNP's anti-nuclear strategy |work=The Guardian |publisher= |date=14 August 2013|accessdate=17 December 2013}}</ref>
The former [[Secretary General of NATO]] and Scottish Labour peer [[George Robertson, Baron Robertson of Port Ellen|Lord Robertson]] said in 2013 that "either the SNP accept the central nuclear role of NATO ... or they reject the nuclear role of NATO and ensure that a separate Scottish state stays out of the world's most successful defence alliance."<ref>{{cite news |last=Cramb|first=Auslan|title=An independent Scotland would have to 'support nuclear weapons' to gain access to Nato |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/scottish-politics/9985086/An-independent-Scotland-would-have-to-support-nuclear-weapons-to-gain-access-to-Nato.html|newspaper=Daily Telegraph|date=10 April 2013}}</ref> General [[Richard Shirreff]] criticised SNP proposals for defence and questioned whether other NATO members would accept an independent Scotland that rejected the principle of nuclear deterrence.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-29005808 |title=Scottish independence: Former Nato commander attacks SNP defence policy |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=31 August 2014 |accessdate=3 September 2014}}</ref> This was disputed by [[Mariot Leslie]], a former UK permanent representative to NATO, who stated that NATO would not want to disrupt its arrangements by excluding Scotland.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-29045528 |title=Scottish independence: Nato members 'would welcome' Scotland |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=3 September 2014 |accessdate=3 September 2014}}</ref>
====Intelligence====
A UK government paper on security stated that [[Police Scotland]] would lose access to the intelligence apparatus of the UK, including [[MI5]], [[Secret Intelligence Service|SIS]] and [[GCHQ]].<ref name = "experts"/> The paper also says that an independent Scottish state would need to build its own security infrastructure.<ref name = "experts"/> Theresa May has commented that an independent Scotland would have access to less security capability, but would not necessarily face a reduced threat.<ref name = "experts"/> In 2013, Allan Burnett, former head of intelligence with [[Strathclyde Police]] and Scotland's counter-terrorism co-ordinator until 2010, said that "an independent Scotland would face less of a threat, intelligence institutions will be readily created, and allies will remain allies". Peter Jackson, Canadian-born professor of security at the [[University of Glasgow]], agreed that [[Special Branch]] could form a "suitable nucleus" of a Scottish equivalent of MI5, and that Scotland could forego creating an equivalent of [[MI6]], instead "relying on pooled intelligence or diplomatic open sources" like Canada or the [[Nordic countries]].<ref name="spy">{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/spy-wars.21480718 |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |title=Spy wars |date=30 June 2013 |accessdate=30 June 2013}}</ref> [[Meta Ramsay, Baroness Ramsay of Cartvale|Baroness Ramsay]], a Labour peer and former Case Officer with MI6, said that the Scottish government's standpoint on intelligence was "extremely naïve" and that it was "not going to be as simple as they think".<ref name="spy" /> Nicola Sturgeon has stated that Scotland would create its own security service like MI5 to work alongside police and tackle terrorism, cyber attacks and serious organised crime.<ref name = "sturgeon embassies">{{cite web|author= |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/uk/sturgeon-100-embassies-for-independent-scotland-1-2763247 |title=Sturgeon: ‘100 embassies’ for independent Scotland |publisher=The Scotsman |date=30 January 2013 |accessdate=2014-08-26}}</ref> She also stated creating an external intelligence agency would remain an option.<ref name = "sturgeon embassies"/>
===Democracy===
The Scottish government and pro-independence campaigners have said that a [[democratic deficit]] exists in Scotland<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/alex-salmond-we-must-leave-uk-but-maintain-our-other-unions.1373639663|title=Alex Salmond: we must leave UK but maintain our other unions|date=12 July 2013|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yesscotland.net/news/peoples-constitution|title=The people's constitution|date=28 August 2013|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/billy-bragg-backs-scottish-independence-1-3300355|title=Billy Bragg backs Scottish independence |work=The Scotsman |publisher= |date=10 February 2014|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref> because the UK is a [[unitary state]] that does not have a codified constitution.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.itv.com/news/update/2013-11-26/salmond-independence-would-tackle-democratic-deficit/ |work=www.itv.com |publisher= |title=Salmond: Independence to tackle 'democratic deficit'|date=27 November 2013|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref> The SNP has also described the unelected [[House of Lords]] as an "affront to democracy".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/uk/house-of-lords-an-affront-to-democracy-says-snp-1-3029597|title=House of Lords an 'affront to democracy' says SNP|date=4 August 2013|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref> The "democratic deficit" label has sometimes been used to refer to the period between the 1979 and 1997 UK general elections, during which the Labour Party held a majority of Scottish seats but the Conservative Party governed the whole of the UK.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bellacaledonia.org.uk/2013/02/13/the-democratic-deficit/|title=The Democratic Deficit|date=13 February 2013|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref> Alex Salmond said in September 2013 that instances such as this amount to a lack of democracy, and that "the people who live and work in Scotland are the people most likely to make the right choices for Scotland".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-24127510|title=Scottish independence: Holyrood debate marks one year to referendum|date=18 September 2013|accessdate=18 February 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newstatesman.com/2014/02/alex-salmond-why-should-scotland-let-itself-be-ruled-tories|title=Alex Salmond: Why should Scotland let itself be ruled by the Tories?|date=26 February 2014|accessdate=27 February 2014}}</ref> In January 2012, Patrick Harvie said: "Greens have a vision of a more radical democracy in Scotland, with far greater levels of discussion and decision making at community level."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.scottishgreens.org.uk/uncategorized/sgp-news-referendum-should-spark-an-era-of-radical-scottish-democracy/|title=Referendum should spark an era of radical Scottish democracy|date=25 January 2012|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref>
[[Menzies Campbell]] wrote in April 2014 that any democratic deficit has been addressed by creating the devolved [[Scottish Parliament]], and that "Scotland and the Scottish have enjoyed influence beyond our size or reasonable expectation" within the [[Government of the United Kingdom|British government]] and the wider political system.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/apr/07/independence-scotland-scots-powers-parliament-menzies-campbell |title=I will vote no to independence because I love Scotland |work=The Guardian |publisher= |first=Menzies |last=Campbell |date=7 April 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> Conservative MP [[Daniel Kawczynski]] said in 2009 that the [[asymmetric devolution]] in place in the UK has created a democratic deficit for England.<ref name = "Kawczynski">{{cite web |url=http://www.conservativehome.com/platform/2009/03/it-is-time-to-a.html |title=It is time to address the democratic deficit in England |work=www.conservativehome.com |publisher= |date=4 March 2009 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> This is more commonly known as the [[West Lothian question]], which cites the anomaly where English MPs cannot vote on affairs devolved to Scotland, but Scottish MPs can vote on the equivalent subjects in England. Kawczynski also pointed out that the average size of a parliamentary constituency is larger in England than in Scotland.<ref name = "Kawczynski"/>
====Further devolution====
During the campaign each of the three main UK parties conducted reviews into devolution, with each recommending that more powers should be devolved to the Scottish Parliament.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27656628 |title=Scottish independence: Tories back Scots income tax power |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=2 June 2014 |accessdate=11 August 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25626977 |title=Scottish independence: What are the 'No' parties offering instead of independence? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=2 June 2014 |accessdate=11 August 2014}}</ref> On the morning prior to a televised debate between Alex Salmond and Alistair Darling,<ref name="autogenerated2">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28238151 |title=Scottish independence: STV confirm Darling and Salmond TV debate date |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=9 July 2014 |accessdate=9 July 2014}}</ref> a joint statement was published by [[Better Together (campaign)|Better Together]]. Co-signed by the 3 main UK party leaders it stated a commitment to grant Scotland increased power over domestic taxes and parts of the social security system.<ref name="Sev">{{cite news|author1=Severin Carrell|title=Scotland promised extra tax and legal powers for referendum no vote|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2014/aug/05/scotland-promised-new-powers-no-vote-referendum?CMP=EMCNEWEML6619I2|accessdate=5 August 2014|work=The Guardian|date=5 August 2014}}</ref> [[Boris Johnson]], the Conservative [[mayor of London]], stated his opposition to giving the Scottish Parliament greater fiscal powers.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/boris-johnson-vows-to-resist-scots-tax-devolution-1-3505113 |title=Boris Johnson vows to resist Scots tax devolution |first=Andrew |last=Whitaker |date=11 August 2014 |accessdate=11 August 2014 |work=The Scotsman |publisher=}}</ref> During the second televised debate, Alex Salmond challenged Alistair Darling to specify which additional powers that could help create greater employment in Scotland would be granted if there was a "no" vote.<ref name = "soon">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28952197 |title=Scottish independence: Cameron promises more powers for Scotland 'soon' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=28 August 2014 |accessdate=28 August 2014}}</ref> During a visit to Scotland later that week, David Cameron promised more powers "soon".<ref name = "soon"/>
===Economy===
A principal issue in the referendum is the economy.<ref name = "ipad">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-19955302 |title=Scottish independence: Braveheart or iPad? |first=Douglas |last=Fraser |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=15 October 2012 |accessdate=19 October 2012}}</ref> The UK Treasury issued a report on 20 May 2013 which said that Scotland's banking systems would be too big to ensure depositor compensation in the event of a bank failure.<ref name = "treasury"/> The report indicated that Scottish banks would have assets worth 1,254% of GDP, which is more than Cyprus and Iceland before the last global financial crisis.<ref name = "treasury"/> It suggested Scottish taxpayers would each have £65,000 of potential liabilities during a hypothetical bailout in Scotland, versus £30,000 as part of the UK.<ref name = "treasury">{{cite news |url=http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-05-18/u-k-treasury-says-banks-too-big-to-save-in-independent-scotland.html|title=U.K. Treasury Says Independent Scotland Couldn't Aid Banks |work=www.bloomberg.com |publisher= |date=20 May 2013 |accessdate=23 May 2013}}</ref> Economists including Andrew Hughes Hallett, Professor of Economics at [[St Andrews University]], have rejected the idea that Scotland would have to underwrite these liabilities alone. He observed that banks operating in more than one country can be given a joint bailout by multiple governments.<ref name="banks">{{cite web|url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/83024e5e-42d0-11e1-b756-00144feab49a.html |title=Scotland has thought the options through and counted the cost |first1=Andrew |last1=Hughes Hallett |first2=Drew |last2=Scott |work=Financial Times |publisher= |date=24 January 2012 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> In this manner, Fortis Bank and the Dexia Bank were bailed out collectively by France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.<ref name="banks" /> The [[Federal Reserve System]] lent more than US$1 trillion to British banks, including $446 billion to the [[Royal Bank of Scotland]] (RBS), because they had operations in the United States.<ref name="banks" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cfoworld.co.uk/news/change-management/3251623/rbs-no-longer-in-debt-to-us-federal-reserve/|title=RBS no longer in debt to US Federal Reserve |work=CFO World |publisher=IDG Inc |date=2 December 2010 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> [[Robert Peston]] reported in March 2014 that RBS and [[Lloyds Banking Group]] may be forced to relocate their head offices from Edinburgh to London in case of Scottish independence, due to a European law brought in after the 1991 collapse of the [[Bank of Credit and Commerce International]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-26455655 |title=EU law may force RBS and Lloyds to become English |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=5 March 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014 |first=Robert |last=Peston}}</ref>
[[Weir Group]], one of the largest private companies based in Scotland, commissioned a study by Oxford Economics into the potential economic effects of Scottish independence.<ref name = "weir">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-26864329 |title=Scottish independence: 'Yes' vote carries substantial risk, says Weir Group |first1=James |last1=Cook |first2=Andrew |last2=Black |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=3 April 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> It found that Weir would pay more corporation tax, despite the Scottish government's proposal to cut the rate of corporation tax, due to it no longer being able to offset losses in Scotland against profits in the rest of the UK.<ref name = "weir"/> It also stated that independence would result in additional costs and complexity in the operation of business pension schemes.<ref name = "weir"/> The report found that 70% of all Scottish exports are sold to the rest of the UK, which it said would particularly affect the financial services sector.<ref name = "weir"/> [[Standard Life]], one of the largest businesses in the Scottish financial sector, said in February 2014 that it had started registering companies in England in case it had to relocate some of its operations there.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-26362321 |title=Standard Life could quit Scotland |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=27 February 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014 |first=Robert |last=Peston}}</ref>
In February 2014, the ''[[Financial Times]]'' noted that Scotland's per capita GDP is bigger than that of France when a geographic share of oil and gas is taken into account, and still bigger than that of Italy when it is not.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/5b5ec2ca-8a67-11e3-ba54-00144feab7de.html|title=Independence debate: Yes, Scotland?|date=2 February 2014|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref> As of April 2014, Scotland had a similar rate of unemployment as the UK average (6.6%)<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-27793254 |title=Scottish unemployment total falls by 7,000|work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=11 June 2014|accessdate=11 June 2014}}</ref> and a lower fiscal deficit (including as a percentage of GDP)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2013/05/4084/14|title=Scotland's Economy: the case for independence|date=May 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> than the rest of the UK. Scotland performed better than the UK average in securing new Foreign Direct Investment in 2012–13 (measured by the number of projects), although not as well as [[Wales]] or [[Northern Ireland]].<ref>{{cite news |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-23431486|title=Rise of 16% in Scottish inward investment projects |date=24 July 2013 |accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> GDP growth during 2013 was lower in Scotland than in the rest of the UK, although this was partly due to an industrial dispute at the [[Grangemouth Refinery]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-27048036 |title=Growth in Scottish economy slows |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=16 April 2014 |accessdate=17 April 2014}}</ref>
Leading digital marketer Simon Dalley outlined the potential benefits and pitfalls for Scotland's online business community, detailing how a change of nationality would likely have a detrimental impact on those Scottish online businesses who currently trade throughout the UK using Google.co.uk as their primary route to market whilst demonstrating the potential benefits for Scottish businesses that primarily trade within Scotland.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.growtraffic.co.uk/google-sco-scottish-independences-impact-on-online-businesses |title=Google.sco: Scottish Independence's Impact on Online Businesses |publisher=Grow Traffic }}</ref>
Supporters of independence have said that Scotland does not meet its full economic potential because it is subject to the same economic policy as the rest of the UK.<ref name="prosperity">{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/scottish-independence-will-improve-prosperity-1-3253393|title=Scottish independence 'will improve prosperity'|date=3 January 2014|accessdate=22 January 2014 |publisher= |work=The Scotsman}}</ref><ref name="devolutionists">{{cite web|url=http://thetarge.co.uk/article/current-affairs/0192/independence-boost-for-english-devolutionists|title=Independence 'boost' for English devolutionists|date=8 January 2014|accessdate=22 January 2014|publisher= |work= The Targe}}</ref> In 2013, the Jimmy Reid Foundation published a report stating that UK economic policy had become "overwhelmingly geared to helping London, meaning Scotland and other UK regions suffer from being denied the specific, local policies they need".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/london-calling-the-shots.21228380 |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |title=London calling (the shots)|date=1 June 2013|accessdate=22 January 2014}}</ref> Later in January 2014, Colin Fox said that Scotland is "penalised by an economic model biased towards the South East of England".<ref name="prosperity" /> In November 2013, [[Chic Brodie (politician)|Chic Brodie]] said that Scotland was "deprived" of economic benefit in the 1980s after the Ministry of Defence blocked oil exploration off the West of Scotland, ostensibly to avoid interference with the UK's nuclear weapons arsenal.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.sundaypost.com/news-views/scotland/west-coast-oil-boom-was-blocked-by-mod-1.151449 |work=Sunday Post |publisher=DC Thomson |first=Andrew |last=Picken |title=West coast oil boom was blocked by MoD|date=9 November 2013|accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref>
====Currency====
Another major economic issue is the currency that would be used by an independent Scotland.<ref name="issue"/> The principal options are to establish an independent Scottish currency, join the [[euro]], or retain the [[pound sterling]]<ref name="issue"/> (a form of [[currency substitution]]).<ref name="adamsm">{{cite web| url= http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28869991 | title= Scottish independence: Scotland should use pound, says Adam Smith Institute | date= 21 August 2014 | publisher= BBC News | accessdate= 2014-08-20| quote= [A] new report, written by the research director of the Adam Smith Institute, Sam Bowman, has argued that sterlingization – using the pound without the use of a central bank – would be 'a significant improvement on Scotland's current arrangements'.}}</ref>
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, the SNP's policy was that an independent Scotland should adopt the euro,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.snp.org/media-centre/news/2002/jan/snp-accuse-labour-over-euro |work=www.snp.org |publisher=Scottish National Party |title=SNP Accuse Labour Over Euro|date=3 January 2002|accessdate=2014-02-18}}</ref> though this was relegated to a long-term rather than short-term goal by the party's 2009 conference.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/8311435.stm |title=SNP European divisions laid bare |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=16 October 2009|accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/6376900/SNP-split-over-euro-membership.html|title=SNP split over euro membership|date=19 October 2009|accessdate=22 January 2014|work=The Daily Telegraph|first=Simon|last=Johnson}}</ref> There is disagreement over whether Scotland would be required to join the euro if it wished to become an EU member state in its own right. All new members are required to commit to joining the single currency as a prerequisite of EU membership, but they must first be party to [[European Exchange Rate Mechanism|ERM II]] for two years. The Scottish government argues that countries have a de facto opt-out from the euro because they are not obliged to join ERM II.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2013/11/5894/15|title=Scotland in the European Union|accessdate=31 December 2013 |publisher=Scottish Government}}</ref> For example, [[Sweden and the euro|Sweden has never adopted the euro]]. The people of Sweden rejected adopting the euro in a [[Swedish euro referendum, 2003|2003 referendum]] and its government has stayed out by refusing to enter ERM II.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/3108292.stm |title=Sweden says No to euro |date=15 September 2003 |accessdate=24 March 2014 |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.riksbank.se/en/Press-and-published/Press-Releases/1998/EU-central-bank-agreement-on-ERM-II-operating-procedures/ |title=EU central bank agreement on ERM II operating procedures |work=www.riksbank.se |publisher=Sveriges Riksbank |date= |accessdate=24 March 2014}}</ref>
The SNP favours continued use of sterling in an independent Scotland through a formal currency union with the UK, with the [[Bank of England]] setting its interest rates and monetary policy and acting as its central bank.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/nov/26/scotland-share-uk-liabilities-currency-union-independence|title=Scotland could refuse to accept UK liabilities if currency union is blocked|date=26 November 2013|accessdate= 2014-01-22}}</ref> The white paper ''Scotland's Future'' identified five key reasons that a currency union "would be in both Scotland and the UK's interests immediately post-independence": Scotland's main trading partner is the UK (2/3 of exports in 2011); "companies operating in Scotland and the UK [...have] complex cross-border supply chains"; there is high labour mobility; "on key measurements of an optimal currency area, the Scottish and UK economies score well"; and short-term economic trends in the UK and Scotland have "a relatively high degree of synchronicity".<ref name = "white paper"/>
In June 2012, [[Alistair Darling]] said voters in the rest of the UK could choose not to be in a currency union with Scotland.<ref>{{cite news|author=Severin Carrell, Scotland correspondent |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/jun/19/scottish-independence-alistair-darling-currency |title=Scottish independence: Alistair Darling challenges plans for currency union | Politics | guardian.co.uk |publisher=Guardian |date= 19 June 2012|accessdate= 2012-10-11}}</ref><ref name="darling">{{cite news|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/jun/25/scottish-independence-darling-ridicules-salmond |title=Scottish independence: Darling ridicules Salmond's claims |publisher= The Guardian |date=25 June 2012 |accessdate= 2012-10-11|first=James |last=Meikle}}</ref> Former Prime Minister Sir [[John Major]] rejected the idea of a currency union, saying it would require the UK to underwrite Scottish debt.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25145961 |title= Scottish independence: Former prime minister John Major gives warning |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=28 November 2013 |accessdate= 2014-01-31}}</ref> Another former Prime Minister, [[Gordon Brown]], said the SNP proposal would create a "colonial relationship" between Scotland and Westminster.<ref>{{cite web|last=Brown |first=Gordon |url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/politics/gordon-brown-writes-exclusively-daily-2841667 |title=Gordon Brown writes exclusively for the Daily Record on why Salmond's economic plans are destined to make Scotland less independent |publisher= |work=Daily Record |date=23 November 2013 |accessdate=2014-06-12}}</ref> The Welsh First Minister, [[Carwyn Jones]], said in November 2013 that he would seek a veto on a currency union between Scotland and the rest of the UK.<ref>{{cite news|last=Carrell|first=Severin|title=Welsh first minister sets out case against Scottish independence|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/nov/21/welsh-first-minister-scottish-independence|newspaper=The Guardian|date=21 November 2013}}</ref>
Yes Scotland said that a currency union would benefit both Scotland and the rest of the UK, as Scotland's exports would boost the [[balance of payments]] and consequently strengthen the [[exchange rate]] of sterling.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.yesscotland.net/questions_on_currency|title=Question on Currency|date=23 April 2013|accessdate= 2013-04-25}}</ref> Meanwhile, UK economists and financial experts stated that the effect on the balance of payments and the exchange rate would be "largely neutral".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://scotspolitics.com/independence/could-an-independent-scotland-keep-sterling-what-the-experts-say |title=Could an Independent Scotland keep Sterling? What experts say |publisher=Scots Politics |date=3 September 2013 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Brian |last=Ashcroft |url=http://www.scottisheconomywatch.com/brian-ashcrofts-scottish/2013/04/sterling-and-scottish-independence.html |title= Sterling and Scottish Independence |publisher=Scottish Economy Watch |date=26 April 2013 |accessdate=2014-06-12}}</ref>
The Scottish government stated that not having a currency union could cost businesses in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland £500 million in transaction charges when trading with an independent Scotland;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/salmond-sticks-to-plan-a-the-pound-is-scotlands-too.1392620409|title=Salmond warns: the 'George Tax' would cost English business hundreds of millions|date=17 February 2014|accessdate= 2014-02-18}}</ref><ref name="Wales" /> Plaid Cymru treasury spokesperson Jonathan Edwards commented that such costs were a "threat to Welsh business".<ref name="Wales">{{cite web|url=http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/snp-warns-uk-businesses-could-6719298|title=SNP warns UK businesses could face £500m in transaction costs unless an independent Scotland keeps pound|date=18 February 2014|accessdate=2014-02-18}}</ref> [[Scottish Labour Party|Scottish Labour]] leader [[Johann Lamont]] said that any additional transaction costs would fall largely on Scottish companies, costing businesses in Scotland 11 times more than those in England.<ref name = "transaction cost">{{cite web|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/politics/10240776/Independence-would-cost-Scottish-businesses-more-than-their-English-competitors.html |title=Independence 'would cost Scottish businesses more than their English competitors' |publisher=Telegraph |date= |accessdate=2014-06-12}}</ref> The [[Institute of Directors]] stated that any new transaction costs would "pale in comparison to the financial danger of entering an unstable currency union."<ref name = "transaction cost"/>
If Scotland joined a currency union with the UK, some fiscal policy constraints could be imposed on the Scottish state.<ref name="issue"/> Banking experts have said that being the "junior partner" in a currency arrangement could amount to "a loss of fiscal autonomy for Scotland".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-22006400|title=Scottish independence: Banking experts say 'go for Scottish pound'|date=2 April 2013|accessdate= 2013-07-20|work=BBC News}}</ref> Dr Angus Armstrong of the [[National Institute of Economic and Social Research]] wrote that the implicit constraints on its economic policy would be more restrictive than the explicit ones it faces as a member of the UK.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-16865110 |title=Independent money matters |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=3 February 2012 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref> Salmond said in February 2014 that an independent Scotland in a currency union would retain tax and spending powers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/salmond-stands-firm-on-tax-and-spending-powers.23326332|title=Salmond stands firm on tax and spending powers|date=1 February 2014|accessdate= 2014-02-18}}</ref> Gavin McCrone, former chief economic adviser to the Scottish Office, stated that Scotland's retention of the pound would be pragmatic initially, but problematic thereafter if a Scottish government wished to implement independent policies, and he warned that keeping the pound could lead to the relocation of Scottish banks to London.<ref name=McCrone>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/gavin-mccrone-indy-would-be-costlybut-no-vote-will-mean-no-more-devo.1374326058|title=Gavin McCrone: indy would be costly...but No vote will mean no more devo|date=20 July 2013|accessdate= 2013-07-20}}</ref>
The [[Chancellor of the Exchequer]], as well as equivalent post-holders in the two other main UK political parties, rejected the idea of a formal currency union with an independent Scotland in February 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26166794|title=Scottish Independence: 'Yes' Vote Means Leaving Pound, Says Osborne|publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=13 February 2014|accessdate= 2014-05-30}}</ref> Shadow Chancellor [[Ed Balls]] said the SNP's proposals for a currency union were "economically incoherent",<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/scottish-independence-balls-not-bluffing-on-currency-1-3127292 |title=Scottish independence: Balls 'not bluffing' on currency |publisher=Johnston Press |work=The Scotsman |date=4 October 2013 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref> and that any currency option for an independent Scotland would be "less advantageous than what we have across the UK today".<ref>{{cite news|last=Carrell|first=Severin|title=Ed Balls: Alex Salmond's sterling currency union plans flawed |url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/oct/03/ed-balls-alex-salmond-sterling-union|newspaper=The Guardian|date=3 October 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/ed-balls-calls-for-meeting-with-alex-salmond-to-discuss-indyref.1390231407 |title=Balls to Salmond: let's discuss indyref finance issues|date=20 January 2014 |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |accessdate=2014-01-22}}</ref>
After the three main UK political parties ruled out a formal currency union as a possibility, the [[Adam Smith Institute]] said that the economies of Panama, Ecuador and El Salvador "demonstrate that the informal use of another country's currency can foster a healthy financial system and economy".<ref name="adamsm"/> In September 2014, former European Commissioner [[Olli Rehn]] stated that an independent Scotland would be unable to meet EU membership requirements if it shared sterling informally, as it would not have an independent central bank.<ref name = "rehn">{{cite news |title=Scottish independence: Sterlingisation 'would threaten EU membership' |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-29043878 |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=3 September 2014 |accessdate=3 September 2014}}</ref> Rehn's comment was disputed by Salmond, who restated his belief that a sterling currency union would be formed and pledged to create the necessary financial institutions.<ref name = "rehn"/>
The Scottish Socialist Party favours an independent Scottish currency pegged to sterling in the short term.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scottishsocialistparty.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/A5-Scottish-Currency.pdf|title=What currency?|accessdate= 2014-02-18|publisher=Scottish Socialist Party}}</ref> The Scottish Green Party said that keeping sterling as "a short term transitional arrangement" should not be ruled out, but the Scottish government should "keep an open mind about moving towards an independent currency".<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.patrickharviemsp.com/2013/04/phoneywar/|title=Greens attack phoney war on currency|date=23 April 2013|accessdate= 2014-01-22}}</ref> The [[Jimmy Reid Foundation]], in early 2013, described retention of the pound as a good transitional arrangement, but recommended the eventual establishment of an independent Scottish currency to "insulate" Scotland from the UK's "economic instability".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/scotland-must-have-own-currency-after-yes-vote.20811822|title=Scotland 'must have own currency after Yes vote|date=16 April 2013|accessdate= 2013-04-23}}</ref> Other proponents of an independent Scottish currency include Yes Scotland chairman Dennis Canavan and former SNP deputy leader [[Jim Sillars]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/comment/herald-view/governors-notes-on-currency-union.23293602 |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group|date=30 January 2014|accessdate=2014-02-18|title=Governor's notes on currency union}}</ref>
On 9 September 2014, during the week prior to the referendum, Mark Carney, governor of the Bank of England, said that a currency union between an independent Scotland and the remainder of the UK would be "incompatible with sovereignty". Carney was involved in a "Q&A" session at the [[Trades Union Congress]] and further explained that cross-border ties on tax, spending and banking rules are a prerequisite: "You only have to look across the continent to look at what happens if you don't have those components in place ... You need tax, revenues and spending flowing across those borders to help equalise, to an extent, some of the inevitable differences [across the union]."<ref name="Car">{{cite news|author1=Phillip Inman, Patrick Wintour|title=Scottish independence: currency union 'incompatible with sovereignty'|url=http://www.theguardian.com/business/2014/sep/09/currency-union-independent-scotland-unworkable-bank-governor|accessdate=11 September 2014|work=The Guardian|date=9 September 2014}}</ref> A spokesperson for the SNP's finance minister responded, saying "Successful independent countries such as France, Germany, Finland and Austria all share a currency – and they are in charge of 100% of their tax revenues, as an independent Scotland would be. At present under devolution, Scotland controls only 7% of our revenues."<ref name="Car" /> Carney's comments received vocal support from Darling and the [[GMB (trade union)|GMB]] trade union, the latter of which supports the retention of the current UK formation.<ref name="Car" />
====Government revenues and expenditure====
The [[Barnett formula]] has resulted in higher per-capita public spending in Scotland than England.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/barnett-formula-would-remain-after-no-vote-1-3238320|title=Barnett Formula 'would remain' after No vote |first=David |last=Maddox|work=The Scotsman|publisher=Johnston Press |date=18 December 2013 |accessdate=10 January 2014}}</ref> If [[North Sea oil]] revenue is calculated on a geographic basis, Scotland also produces more per capita tax revenue than the UK average.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-16477990 |title=Scotland: A case of give and take |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |first=Stephanie |last=Flanders |date=9 January 2012 |accessdate=6 May 2013}}</ref><ref name = "oil revenue"/> The [[Institute for Fiscal Studies]] reported in November 2012 that a geographic share of North Sea oil would more than cover the higher public spending, but warned that oil prices are volatile and that oil is a finite resource.<ref name = "oil revenue">{{cite news |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/nov/19/scotland-independence-oil |title=Scotland's post-independence prosperity linked to oil |first=Andrew |last=Sparrow |work=The Guardian |publisher=Guardian Media Group |date=19 November 2012 |accessdate=6 May 2013}}</ref> The [[Government Expenditure and Revenue Scotland]] report for 2012/13 found that North Sea oil revenue had fallen by 41.5% and that Scotland's public spending deficit had increased from £4.6 billion to £8.6 billion.<ref>{{cite news |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-26541575|accessdate=12 March 2014|title=Scottish public spending deficit rises, say latest Gers figures |date=12 March 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-26550389 |title=Tax and spend: What are experts saying about Scottish figures? |date=12 March 2014|accessdate=12 March 2014}}</ref>
In May 2014, the UK government published an analysis identifying a "[[Union dividend]]" of £1,400 per year for each person in Scotland, mainly due to the higher level of public spending under the Barnett formula.<ref name = "dividend">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27595415 |title=Scottish independence: Rivals both say Scots 'better off with us' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=28 May 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> The Scottish government disputed this analysis, saying that each Scot would be £1,000 better off per year under independence by 2030.<ref name = "dividend"/> Three economic experts said that both estimates were possible, but they both depended on unknown variables such as the division of UK government debt, future North Sea oil revenues, possible spending commitments of an independent Scotland and future productivity gains.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27608272 |title=Asking the experts: What are economists saying about indyref figures? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=28 May 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref>
In its analysis, the UK government also estimated setup costs of £1.5 billion (1% of GDP) for establishing an independent state, or possibly £2.7 billion (180 public bodies costing £15 million each).<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27557547 |title=Scottish independence: Row over start-up costs |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=26 May 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref><ref name = "call to release"/> Patrick Dunleavy of the [[London School of Economics]] criticised the UK government's "ludicrous" use of his research in arriving at the latter figure.<ref name = "call to release">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27623105 |title=Scottish independence: Call to release post-'Yes' costs |work=BBC News |publisher= BBC |date=29 May 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> The Treasury said that their main figure (£1.5 billion) was based on estimates by professor Robert Young of [[University of Western Ontario|Western University]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27611563 |title= Scottish independence: Prof Patrick Dunleavy says Treasury claims 'ludicrous' |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=28 May 2014 |accessdate= 12 June 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/scottish-independence-treasury-figure-for-cost-of-yes-vote-badly-misrepresents-key-research--says-academic-whose-own-work-it-was-based-on-9443603.html|title=Scottish independence: Treasury figure for cost of Yes vote ‘badly misrepresents’ key research – says academic whose own work it was based on |work=The Independent|accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref> Two of the main unionist parties in Scotland have called on the SNP to publish their own estimate of the setup costs of an independent state,<ref name = "call to release"/> but the Scottish government says an estimate is not possible as the final bill would depend on negotiations with the rest of the UK.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/voters-will-not-be-told-cost-of-yes-vote-before-referendum.24361774 |title=Voters will not be told cost of Yes vote before referendum|date=30 May 2014|accessdate=4 June 2014|publisher=Herald & Times Group |work=The Herald}}</ref> Professor Dunleavy estimated immediate setup costs of £200 million in a report commissioned by the ''[[Sunday Post]]'' newspaper,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27962983 |title=Scottish independence: Prof Patrick Dunleavy makes £200m start-up claim |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=22 June 2014 |accessdate= 22 June 2014}}</ref> with "total transition costs" of between £600 million and £1,500 million in the first 10 years of independence.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28053028 |title=Scottish independence: Start-up cost 'up to £1.5bn' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=27 June 2014 |accessdate=27 June 2014}}</ref>
The [[credit rating]] that an independent Scotland would merit has also become a subject of debate.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/scottish-independence-snp-pound-freedom-warning-1-2904279|title=Scottish independence: SNP pound freedom warning|first=Eddie|last=Barnes|newspaper=The Scotsman|date=22 April 2013|accessdate=May 2013}}</ref><ref name = "credit">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-20009301 |title=Scottish independence: credit where it's due|first=Douglas |last=Fraser |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=19 October 2012 |accessdate=19 October 2012}}</ref> The credit-rating agency [[Fitch Group|Fitch]] stated in 2012 that it could not give an opinion on what rating Scotland would have, because Scottish finances would largely depend on the result of negotiations between the UK and Scotland on the division of assets and liabilities.<ref name = "credit"/> [[Standard & Poor's]], another credit-rating agency, asserted in February 2014 that Scotland would face "significant, but not unsurpassable" challenges, and that "even excluding North Sea output and calculating per capita GDP only by looking at onshore income, Scotland would qualify for our highest economic assessment".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.stv.tv/politics/265694-standard-poors-independence-means-significant-challenges-for-scotland/ |work=STV News |publisher=STV |title=Credit ratings agency outlines 'significant' challenges for independence|date= 27 February 2014|accessdate= 13 March 2014}}</ref> Research published by [[Moody's]] in May 2014 said that an independent Scotland would be given an A rating, comparable with Poland, the Czech Republic and Mexico.<ref name = "Moody's"/> An A rating would be two grades below its current rating for the UK, which Moody's said would be unaffected by Scottish independence.<ref name = "Moody's">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27247870 |title=Scottish independence: Moody's predicts Scotland would get an 'A' credit rating |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=1 May 2014 |accessdate=1 May 2014}}</ref>
===Energy===
====Energy market====
Most issues regarding energy are controlled by the UK government,<ref name = "energy">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27118399 |title=Scotland's referendum: What are the issues around energy? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=30 April 2014 |accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref> although control over planning laws allows the Scottish government to prevent the construction of new nuclear power stations in Scotland.<ref name = "energy"/> Supporters of independence want to retain a single energy market for the whole of Great Britain after independence, in order to maintain price stability and support for suppliers.<ref name = "energy"/> Opponents have said that independence would threaten the single energy market.<ref name = "energy"/> Euan Phimister, professor of economics at Aberdeen University, has said that although independence would affect the relationship, it is likely that there would be continued English demand for electricity generated in Scotland because [[OFGEM]] projections suggest that there is little spare capacity.<ref name = "energy claims"/><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26924027 |title=Scottish independence: UK 'faces energy blackout risk' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=7 April 2014 |accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref> The second largest supplier of energy in the UK, [[SSE plc]], believes that a single market would be the most likely outcome under independence, although it would require negotiations and may involve changes to the existing system.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26750110 |title=Scottish independence: SSE says single energy market 'likely' post Yes |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=26 March 2014 |accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref>
Labour MP [[Caroline Flint]] has said that independence would mean higher energy bills in Scotland, as its customers would have to pay more to support [[renewable energy in Scotland]], which represents one third of the UK total.<ref name = "energy claims">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26054455 |title=Scottish independence: Energy market claims analysed |first=Marianne |last=Taylor |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=5 February 2014 |accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref> Euan Phimister has said that bills are likely to increase across the whole of Great Britain because renewable schemes and new nuclear power stations in England are both receiving higher subsidies than the power plants which will shortly close due to environmental regulations.<ref name = "energy claims"/> He also said that there is a distinction between existing and proposed renewable schemes in that the existing schemes have already been paid for, whereas any new construction requires the promise of subsidy from the consumer.<ref name = "energy claims"/> Energy and Climate Change Secretary [[Ed Davey]] stated Scottish generators would no longer be eligible for UK subsidies, which would increase energy bills for consumers.<ref>{{cite web|author=Severin Carrell, Scotland correspondent |url=http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2014/apr/09/ed-davey-independent-scotland-fund-energy-alex-salmond |title=Ed Davey says an independent Scotland must fund its own energy projects | Politics |publisher=theguardian.com |date= |accessdate=2014-08-26}}</ref>
====North Sea oil====
Approximately 90% of the United Kingdom's [[North Sea oil]] fields are located in [[Scottish territorial waters]]. The tax revenue generated from an offshore site is not counted within the nation or region nearest to it, but is instead allocated to the [[UK Continental Shelf]]. The revenue from North Sea oil has been used to support current expenditure, rather than creating a [[sovereign oil fund]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.france24.com/en/20130417-north-sea-oil-tax-boon-for-margaret-thatcher/ |title=Oil wealth key to Thatcher's legacy, analysts say |first=Adam |last=Mitchell |work=www.france24.com |publisher= |date=17 April 2013 |accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |work=The Guardian |publisher= |first=Ian |last=Jack |url=http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/apr/19/north-sea-oil-80s-boom |title=North Sea oil fuelled the 80s boom, but it was, and remains, strangely invisible |date=19 April 2013 |accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref> The SNP believes that a portion of the revenues should be invested in a sovereign oil fund. The Scottish government, citing industry regulator Oil and Gas UK, estimated in ''Scotland's Future'' that there were 24 billion [[barrels of oil equivalent]] (boe) remaining to be extracted.<ref name = "wood">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28867487 |title=Scottish independence: Sir Ian Wood issues warning over oil predictions |work=BBC Sport |publisher=BBC |date=20 August 2014 |accessdate=20 August 2014}}</ref> [[Ian Wood (businessman)|Sir Ian Wood]], founder of oil services company [[Wood Group]], said in August 2014 that he believed there were between 15 and 16.5 billion boe and that the impact from declining production would be felt by 2030.<ref name = "wood"/> In September 2014, an investigation by industry recruitment website ''Oil and Gas People'' stated that there were extensive oil reserves to the west of the [[Western Isles]] and [[Shetland]].<ref name = "oil and gas"/> The report anticipated that the region would be developed within the next 10 years because of improvements in drilling technology, rig design and surveying.<ref name = "oil and gas">{{cite web |url=http://www.oilandgaspeople.com/news/1039/scottish-west-coast-untapped-oil-and-gas-reserves-worth-trillions/ |title=Scottish West Coast untapped oil and gas reserves worth trillions |work=www.oilandgaspeople.com |publisher= |date=3 September 2014 |accessdate=3 September 2014}}</ref>
===European Union===
[[File:European Union main map.svg|thumb|Current map of the European Union, member states shown in dark blue.]]
{{see also|Future enlargement of the European Union#Possible future scenarios}}
The SNP advocates that an independent Scotland should have a similar relationship with the European Union (EU) as the UK has with the EU today. This means full membership with some exemptions, such as not having to adopt the euro. There is debate over whether Scotland would be required to re-apply for membership, and if it could retain the UK's opt-outs.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/oct/23/alex-salmond-eu-legal-advice-scotland |title=Alex Salmond accused of misleading Scottish voters about EU legal advice |first=Severin |last=Carrell |work=The Guardian |publisher=Guardian News and Media |date= 23 October 2012 |accessdate=}}</ref><ref name="autogenerated1">Edward, David, "Scotland's Position in the European Union", Scottish Parliamentary Review, Vol. I, No. 2 (Jan 2014) [Edinburgh: Blacket Avenue Press]</ref> The European Commission (EC) offered to provide an opinion to an existing member state on the matter, but the British government confirmed it would not seek this advice, as it did not want to negotiate the terms of independence ahead of the referendum.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-20164826 |title=Scottish independence: UK ministers not seeking advice on Scotland in EU |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=1 November 2012 |accessdate=1 November 2012}}</ref>
There is no direct precedent for part of an EU member state seceding.<ref name = "precedent">{{cite web |url=http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmselect/cmfaff/writev/643/m05.htm |title=HC 643 The foreign policy implications of and for a separate Scotland |work=www.publications.parliament.uk |publisher= |date=24 September 2012 |accessdate=24 April 2014}}</ref> Supporters of independence have stated that an independent Scotland would become an EU member by treaty amendment under Article 48 of the EU treaties.<ref name = "bbc">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26173004 |title=Scottish independence: Would Scotland be in the EU after a Yes vote? |first=Martin |last=Currie |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=29 April 2014 |accessdate=29 April 2014}}</ref> Opponents say that this would not be possible and that an independent Scotland would need to apply for EU membership under Article 49, which would require ratification by each member state.<ref name = "bbc"/>
[[Christina McKelvie]], Convener of the European and External Relations [[Committees of the Scottish Parliament|Committee of the Scottish Parliament]], in March 2014 asked [[Viviane Reding]], Vice-President of the European Commission, whether Article 48 would apply.<ref>{{cite web |work=www.scottish.parliament.uk |publisher=Scottish Parliament |url=http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/S4_EuropeanandExternalRelationsCommittee/Inquiries/20140310_Convener_to_Vivianne_Reding_European_Commission.pdf |title=European and External Relations Committee |date=10 March 2014 |accessdate=1 May 2014}}</ref> Reding replied that EU treaties would no longer apply to a territory when it secedes from a member state.<ref name = "reding"/> She also indicated that Article 49 would be the route to apply to become a member of the EU.<ref name = "reding">{{cite web|url=http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/S4_EuropeanandExternalRelationsCommittee/Inquiries/Letter_from_Viviane_Reding_Vice_President_of_the_European_Commission_dated_20_March_2014__pdf.pdf |date=20 March 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014 |title=Letter from Viviane Reding |work=www.scottish.parliament.uk |publisher=Scottish Parliament}}</ref> [[José Manuel Barroso]], [[president of the European Commission]], stated earlier that an independent Scotland would have to apply for membership, while the rest of the UK would continue to be a member.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/sep/12/barroso-doubt-scotland-eu-membership |title=Barroso casts doubt on independent Scotland's EU membership rights |first=Severin |last=Carrell |work=The Guardian |publisher=Guardian News and Media |date= 12 September 2012 |accessdate=}}</ref> In 2014, he reiterated that Scotland joining the EU would be "extremely difficult, if not impossible".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26215963 |title=Scottish independence: Barroso says joining EU would be 'difficult' |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=16 February 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref>
The former prime minister Sir [[John Major]] suggested in November 2013 that Scotland would need to re-apply for EU membership, but that this would mean overcoming opposition to separatists among many existing member states, particularly Spain.<ref name = "major">{{cite news |last=Johnson|first=Simon|title=Sir John Major: Scottish independence means 'walking away' from the pound|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/politics/10482145/Sir-John-Major-Scottish-independence-means-walking-away-from-the-pound.html|newspaper=The Telegraph|date=28 November 2013}}</ref> It may block Scottish membership of the EU, amid fears of repercussions with separatist movements in [[Catalonia]] and the [[Basque Country (autonomous community)|Basque country]]:<ref>{{cite news|author=Brian Brady |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/spain-could-wield-veto-over-scotlands-eu-membership-6292846.html |title=Spain could wield veto over Scotland's EU membership |publisher=The Independent |date=22 January 2012 |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> in November 2013 the Spanish Prime Minister, [[Mariano Rajoy]], said: "I know for sure that a region that would separate from a member state of the European Union would remain outside the European Union and that should be known by the Scots and the rest of the European citizens."<ref name="Rajoy EU">{{cite news|title=Scottish independence: Mariano Rajoy says Scotland would be 'outside EU'|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25132026|accessdate=28 November 2013|publisher=BBC News|date=28 November 2013}}</ref> He also stated that an independent Scotland would become a "third country" outside the EU and would require the consent of all 28 EU states to rejoin the EU, but that he would not seek to block an independent Scotland's entry.<ref name="Rajoy EU" /> Salmond cited a letter from Mario Tenreiro of the EC's secretariat general that said it would be legally possible to renegotiate the situation of the UK and Scotland within the EU by unanimious agreement of all member states.<ref name="guardianeurajoy">{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/nov/28/independent-scotland-eu-judicial-expert-alex-salmond |title=Independent Scotland should stay in EU, says judicial expert|date=28 November 2013 |accessdate=28 November 2013|publisher= |work=The Guardian}}</ref> Spain's position was reiterated two days before the referendum by the Spanish European affairs minister, who said "It is crystal clear that any partner member-state that leaves the member state is out of the European Union. If they want to apply again, they would have to follow the procedure of article 49 of the treaties."<ref>{{cite news |last=Johnson|first=Simon|title=Spanish warn independent Scotland would get euro not pound|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/11099167/Spanish-warn-independent-Scotland-would-get-euro-not-pound.html|newspaper=The Telegraph|date=16 September 2014}}</ref>
Professor Sir David Edward, a former European Court judge, has stated that the EU institutions and member states would be "obliged" to start negotiations before independence took effect to decide the future relationship.<ref name = "edward"/> He said this would be achieved by agreed amendment of the existing Treaties (Article 48), rather than a new Accession Treaty (Article 49).<ref name="autogenerated1"/><ref name = "edward">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-20757450|title=Scottish independence: Sir David Edward says Jose Manuel Barroso 'wrong' on EU|date=17 December 2012|accessdate=20 July 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref> Graham Avery, the EC's honorary director general, agreed with Edward.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25965703 |title=Scottish independence: Scotland could join EU in 18 months, says expert |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=30 January 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> Avery wrote a report, published by the European Policy Centre, which said that EU leaders would probably allow Scotland to be part of the EU because of the legal and practical difficulties that would arise from excluding it.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27623271 |title=Scottish independence: Think tank report backs EU membership |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=29 May 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> In a research paper, Professor Sionaidh Douglas-Scott of Oxford University stated that the EU law normally takes a "pragmatic and purposive approach" to issues that are not already provided for by existing treaties.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28197298 |title=Scottish independence: Academic says EU entry 'would be smooth' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=7 July 2014 |accessdate=7 July 2014}}</ref> Research published by the Economic and Social Research Council in August 2014 concluded that it is unlikely that an independent Scotland would be cut off from the rights and obligations of EU membership for any period of time, even if Scotland was not formally a member state of the EU from its date of independence.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.stv.tv/scotland-decides/news/289096-scotlands-european-union-membership-not-in-doubt-claims-esrc/|title=Scotland's European Union membership 'not in doubt' claims study|date=20 August 2014|accessdate=21 August 2014|publisher=STV News}}</ref>
In January 2013, the Republic of Ireland's Minister of European Affairs, [[Lucinda Creighton]], stated that "if Scotland were to become independent, Scotland would have to apply for membership and that can be a lengthy process";<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-21195630|title=Scottish independence: Irish minister says EU application 'would take time'|publisher=BBC|date=25 January 2013}}</ref> she later clarified, writing that she "certainly did not at any stage suggest that Scotland could, should or would be thrown out of the EU".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotreferendum.com/2013/01/26/irelands-minister-for-european-affairs/|title=Ireland's Minister for European Affairs |work=www.scotreferendum.com |publisher=Scottish Government|date=26 January 2013}}</ref> In May 2013, Roland Vaubel, an [[Alternative für Deutschland]] adviser,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.alternativefuer.de/partei/wissenschaftlicher-beirat/|title=Advisory Board |accessdate=17 October 2013}} {{de icon}}</ref> published a paper stating that Scotland would remain a member of the EU upon independence, and suggested there would need to be negotiations between the British and Scottish governments on sharing "the rights and obligations of the predecessor state". Vaubel also said that Barroso's comments on the legal position had "no basis in the European treaties".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/adviser-to-german-government-indy-scotland-would-still-be-in-europe.20948699|title=Adviser to German Government: 'Indy Scotland Would Still Be in Europe' |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |date=12 May 2013|accessdate=14 May 2013}}</ref>
====Future status of the United Kingdom in the European Union====
In January 2013, the British Prime Minister, David Cameron, committed the [[Conservative Party (UK)|Conservative Party]] to a referendum in 2017 on UK membership of the EU if they win the 2015 general election.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-21148282 |title=David Cameron promises in/out referendum on EU |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=23 January 2013 | accessdate=23 January 2013}}</ref> Legislation for an in/out EU referendum was approved by the House of Commons in November 2013.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-25152028|title=EU referendum bill gets Commons approval|date=29 November 2013 |publisher=BBC |accessdate=2 December 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref> Studies have shown some divergence in attitudes to the EU in Scotland and the rest of the UK. Although a Scottish government review based on survey data between 1999 and 2005 found that people in Scotland reported "broadly similar Eurosceptic views as people in Britain as a whole",<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2007/01/23145439/5|title=Attitudes Towards the European Union and the Challenges in Communicating 'Europe': Building a Bridge Between Europe and its Citizens|accessdate=2 December 2013}}</ref> Ipsos MORI noted in February 2013 that voters in Scotland said they would choose to remain in the EU in a referendum, while there was a majority for withdrawal in England.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ipsos-mori.com/researchpublications/researcharchive/3131/Scots-want-EU-referendum-but-would-vote-to-stay-in.aspx|title=Scots want EU referendum but would vote to stay in|publisher=Ipsos MORI |date=14 February 2013|accessdate=2 December 2013}}</ref>
Yes Scotland said that the UK government plans for an EU referendum have caused "economic uncertainty" for Scotland.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.yesscotland.net/what_do_no_campaign_say_now_eu_membership_under_threat_from_westminster |title=What do No campaign say now EU membership under threat from Westminster? |publisher=Yes Scotland |date=23 January 2013 | accessdate=23 January 2013}}</ref> During a CBI Scotland event attended by Cameron, businessman [[Mike Rake]] criticised him for creating uncertainty about EU membership.<ref name = "salmond eu"/> In response to such criticism, Cameron pointed to examples of inward investment in the UK that he said was not happening in the rest of Europe.<ref name = "salmond eu">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28980041 |title=Scottish independence: Alex Salmond says Eurosceptics 'damaging Scotland' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=29 August 2014 |accessdate=29 August 2014}}</ref> Some commentators have suggested that the UK leaving the EU would undermine the case for Scottish independence, since free trade, freedom of movement and the absence of border controls with the UK could no longer be assumed.<ref>{{cite web|author=Brian Ashcroft |url=http://www.scottisheconomywatch.com/brian-ashcrofts-scottish/2013/01/should-scotland-be-in-eu-if-ruk-out.html |title=Should Scotland be in EU if rUK out? |publisher=Scottish Economy Watch |date=28 January 2013 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.futureukandscotland.ac.uk/blog/what-future-scottish-eu-relationship |title=What future for the Scottish-EU relationship? | Future of the UK and Scotland: The Referendum Debate |publisher=Futureukandscotland.ac.uk |date=3 May 2013 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Roxburgh|first=Angus|title=Scotland's tough call: stay in the UK, or stay in the EU?|url=http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/may/19/scotland-tough-call-uk-eu-referendums|newspaper=The Guardian|date=19 May 2013}}</ref>
===Health care===
Responsibility for health care has been devolved to the Scottish Parliament since it was established in 1999.<ref name = "health devo"/> The Scottish government has enacted health policies which are different from those in England, such as abolishing charges for prescriptions and elderly personal care.<ref name = "health devo">{{Cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-18364699 |title=Q&A: Your Scottish independence questions |date=25 June 2012 |accessdate=29 May 2014 |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC}}</ref> [[NHS Scotland]] has been operationally independent of the NHS in the rest of the United Kingdom since the formation of the NHS in 1948.<ref name = "reciprocal"/><ref name = "nhs">{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/scottish-independence-what-would-happen-to-the-nhs-1-2969345 |title=Scottish independence: What would happen to the NHS? |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=17 June 2013 |accessdate=29 May 2014 |first=Tom |last=Peterkin}}</ref> Supporters of independence argue that independence is needed because possible reductions in the NHS budget in England would result in reduced funding for Scotland, which would make it difficult to maintain the existing service.<ref name = "nhs"/> [[Harry Burns (doctor)|Harry Burns]] a former chief medical officer for Scotland, said in July 2014 that he thought independence could be beneficial for public health because it may give people greater control of their lives.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28390734 |title=Scottish independence: Sir Harry Burns says Yes vote could be 'positive' for health |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=20 July 2014 |accessdate=20 July 2014}}</ref>
In May 2014, about 100 medical workers, including surgeons, consultant doctors, GPs, pharmacists, dentists, hospital porters and janitors joined a pro-independence campaign group called NHS for Yes. Its co-founder described health care in Scotland as "a shining example of self-government for Scotland demonstrably being far better than Westminster government" and said independence would "protect [NHS Scotland] from future Westminster funding cuts, and the damaging impact of privatisation south of the border".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.stv.tv/politics/276475-medics-launch-nhs-for-yes-campaign-to-protect-health-service/|title=Medics launch NHS for Yes campaign to 'protect health service'|date=24 May 2014|accessdate=4 June 2014|publisher=STV News}}</ref>
Two days before the referendum, papers indicating "a funding gap of £400–£450m in the next two financial years, 2015–17", for Scotland's NHS, resulting from Scottish government policies, were leaked to the media.<ref name="NHS16">{{Cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-29213416|title=Scottish independence: NHS in Scotland 'faces £400m funding gap'|date=16 September 2014 |accessdate=16 September 2014|work=BBC News |publisher=BBC}}</ref> A Scottish government spokesperson commented that the papers were from "part of the regular discussions among NHS leaders to plan for NHS Scotland's future".<ref name="NHS16" />
====Specialist treatment====
Opponents of independence say that being part of the UK is crucial in allowing Scots to obtain specialist treatment elsewhere in the UK.<ref name = "nhs"/> At present, NHS Scotland has reciprocal arrangements in place with the NHS services in the rest of the UK and specialist services are shared.<ref name = "reciprocal">{{Cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-25035427 |title=Scottish independence: What would it mean for the rest of the UK? |work=BBC News Magazine |publisher=BBC |date=25 November 2013 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> Vote No Borders, a unionist campaign group, ran a cinema advert claiming that Scots would find it more difficult to obtain treatment at the [[Great Ormond Street Hospital]] (GOSH), a London facility which specialises in care for children.<ref name = "gosh"/><ref name = "gosh bbc"/> Vote No Borders withdrew the advert after GOSH complained that it had not been consulted about the advert and stated that they have reciprocal health care agreements with numerous countries.<ref name = "gosh">{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/health/great-ormond-street-hospital-hits-out-at-no-advert-1-3427182 |title=Great Ormond Street Hospital hits out at No advert |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=29 May 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014 |first=Tom |last=Peterkin}}</ref><ref name = "gosh bbc">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27632803 |title=Scottish independence: Vote No Borders advert pulled over child hospital claim |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=30 May 2014 |accessdate=30 May 2014}}</ref>
===International relations===
The white paper on independence proposes that an independent Scotland would open around 100 embassies around the world.<ref name="sturgeon embassies"/> David Cameron has suggested an independent Scotland would be "marginalised" at the United Nations, where the UK is a permanent member of the [[United Nations Security Council|Security Council]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2012/02/15/scottish-independence-cameron-un-security-council_n_1279408.html |title=Scottish Independence: Cameron Warns On UN Security Council Place |publisher=Huffingtonpost.co.uk |date= |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> John Major has suggested that, after Scottish independence, the remaining UK could lose its permanent seat at the UN Security Council.<ref>{{cite web|last=Stacey |first=Kiran |url=http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/0/4aceef46-6679-11e3-aa10-00144feabdc0.html#axzz2pCHUUmAP |title=Scots independence threat to UK influence, says Sir John Major |publisher=FT.com |date=16 December 2013 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref>
===Monarchy===
{{see also|Union of the Crowns}}
[[File:Elizabeth II greets NASA GSFC employees, May 8, 2007 edit.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Elizabeth II|Queen Elizabeth II]] of the United Kingdom. ]]
A republic is favoured by some pro-independence political parties and organisations, including the [[Scottish Green Party]]<ref>{{cite news|title=Radicals threaten Salmond and Scottish independence campaign |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/radicals-threaten-salmond-and-scottish-independence-campaign-8347545.html|date=24 November 2012|accessdate=13 February 2013|work=The Independent|first=Hamish|last=MacDonell}}</ref> and the Scottish Socialist Party.<ref>{{cite web|title=SNP minister: I think indy Scotland should vote on the Queen|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/snp-minister-i-think-indy-scotland-should-vote-on-the-queen.1376255659|date=11 August 2013|accessdate=28 August 2013}}</ref> The SNP is in favour of retaining the monarchy by a [[personal union]] with the rest of the UK.<ref name="issue">{{cite web|url=http://diplomatonline.com/mag/2012/04/the-case-for-scottish-independence/ |title=The case for Scottish independence : Diplomat Magazine |publisher=Diplomatonline.com |date=12 April 2012 |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> Alex Salmond has said the monarchy would be retained by an independent Scotland. [[Christine Grahame]] has said she believes that party policy is to hold a referendum on the status of the monarchy,<ref>{{cite news|last=Johnson |first=Simon |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/politics/9261092/Queen-may-not-remain-monarch-of-an-independent-Scotland.html |title=Queen 'may not remain monarch of an independent Scotland' |publisher=Telegraph Media Group |work=Daily Telegraph |date=12 May 2012 |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> due to a 1997 SNP conference resolution.<ref>{{cite book|title=The Battle for Britain|last=Torrance|first=David|page=67|publisher=Biteback Publishing}}</ref>
Some media reports suggested that the announcement on 8 September of [[Second child of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge|the pregnancy of the Duchess of Cambridge with her second child]] would have an effect on the outcome of the referendum, scheduled to take place less than a fortnight later, providing a boost to [[Unionism in Scotland|pro-union sentiment]].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Moore|first1=Suzanne|title=England’s love-bombing of Scotland is a pathetic afterthought|url=http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/sep/08/england-love-bombing-scotland-no-vote-westminster|accessdate=8 September 2014|publisher=[[The Guardian]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Hayes|first1=Brown|title=How The New Royal Baby Could Stop Scottish Independence|url=http://thinkprogress.org/world/2014/09/08/3564199/scotland-royal-baby/|website=[[ThinkProgress]]|accessdate=8 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Davison|first1=Janet|title=Scotland's referendum: How the next royal baby could sway it|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/scotland-s-referendum-how-the-next-royal-baby-could-sway-it-1.2759279|accessdate=10 September 2014|agency=[[Canadian Broadcasting Corporation]]|date=9 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Goldhill|first1=Olivia|title=Kate Middleton pregnant: Could Scottish royal baby fever keep the union together?|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/kate-middleton/11081715/Kate-Middleton-pregnant-Could-Scottish-royal-baby-fever-keep-the-union-together.html|accessdate=10 September 2014|publisher=[[Telegraph.co.uk]]|date=8 September 2014}}</ref> Although the Queen's official position on Scottish independence is neutral,<ref>{{cite news|author1=Graeme Wearden, Patrick Wintour, Rowena Mason|title=Pound slumps to 10-month low after Scottish yes campaign takes poll lead|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2014/sep/08/pound-slumps-scottish-yes-campaign-poll-lead|accessdate=8 September 2014|work=The Guardian|date=8 September 2014}}</ref> private comments that she hoped that people would "think very carefully about the future" were quickly published widely in the media.<ref>{{cite news|title=Queen hopes Scots voters ‘think carefully’ |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/uk/queen-hopes-scots-voters-think-carefully-1-3541591|work=The Scotsman|date=15 September 2014|accessdate=15 September 2014}}</ref>
===Pensions===
[[UK State Pension]]s are managed by the UK government, paying £113.10 per week to a single person who is of state pension age in 2013/14.<ref name = "pensions">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26918766 |title=Scotland's referendum: What are the issues around pensions? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=30 April 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref> The state pension age for men is 65, but this is due to rise to 66 in 2020 and 67 by 2028.<ref name = "pensions"/> Research by the [[National Institute of Economic and Social Research]] found that an independent Scotland could delay these increases, due to a lower life expectancy.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26082480 |title=Scottish independence: Pension age rise 'could be delayed' |first=Douglas |last=Fraser |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=7 February 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref> The ''Scotland's Future'' white paper pledged to maintain a state pension at a similar rate to the UK.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26354467 |title=Scottish independence: Pensions and the referendum debate|first=Marianne |last=Taylor |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=27 February 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref>
Former prime minister Gordon Brown said in April 2014 that Scotland had an above-average share of the public-sector pension bill and concluded that pensions would be protected by sharing risks and resources within the UK.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-27106954 |title=Scottish independence: Brown says Scotland's pensions protected by UK |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=22 April 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref> UK government pensions minister [[Steve Webb]] said in May 2014 that Scots would be entitled to the current levels of state pension after independence because they had accumulated rights within the existing system.<ref name = "webb">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27309215 |title=Scottish independence: Pensions 'secure' post-Yes, says UK minister |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=7 May 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref> Webb went on to say that there would need to be negotiations between the UK and Scotland as to how these pensions would be paid.<ref name = "webb"/>
In relation to private pension schemes, a report by the [[Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland]] expressed concern that there were no plans to deal with EU regulations that may affect the funding of cross-border defined benefit schemes.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26015455 |title=Scottish independence:Accountancy body claims there is no clear plan for pensions |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=3 February 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref> The EC decided in March 2014 not to relax these regulations, which require cross-border schemes to be fully funded.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26771173 |title=Scottish independence: European Commission reverses pensions decision |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=27 March 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref>
===Sport===
Scotland hosted the [[2014 Commonwealth Games]] in Glasgow, less than two months before the referendum.<ref name = "2014cg"/><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/independence-poll-good-for-games.16854597 |publisher=Herald & Times Group |title=Independence poll good for Games|work=The Herald|date=27 February 2012|accessdate=10 March 2014}}</ref> The Scottish team won a record number of gold medals, which Alan Bisset said would help give voters more belief and confidence.<ref name = "2014cg"/> ''[[Sunday Herald]]'' columnist Ian Bell took an opposing view, saying that sporting success would be unlikely to aid support for independence due to the lengthy and passionate debate on the subject.<ref name = "2014cg">{{cite news |url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/b4d0f642-1596-11e4-ae2e-00144feabdc0.html#axzz38rJqXdp9 |title=Golden games performance boosts Scotland before referendum |first=Mure |last=Dickie |work=Financial Times |publisher= |date=27 July 2014 |accessdate=29 July 2014}}</ref>
Former Labour first minister [[Henry McLeish]] published a report in May 2014 that found no obvious barriers to an independent Scotland competing in the [[2016 Summer Olympics]].<ref name = "mcleish">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27329425 |title=Scottish independence: Athletes 'could choose Team Scotland' for Rio Olympics |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=8 May 2014 |accessdate=9 May 2014}}</ref> McLeish said that some athletes, particularly those in team sports, may choose to compete for the existing Great Britain team rather than Scotland as they would be nationals of both states.<ref name = "mcleish"/> [[International Olympic Committee]] representative [[Craig Reedie]] pointed out that Scotland would need to obtain United Nations membership and may want to set its own Olympic qualifying standards, which would need to be done in the period between independence (March 2016) and the closing date for entries (July 2016).<ref name = "mcleish"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.stv.tv/politics/140940-independent-scotland-would-have-to-compete-in-team-gb-at-2016-olympics/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter|title=Independent Scotland 'would have to compete in Team GB at 2016 Olympics'|work=STV News |publisher=STV Group|date=12 August 2012|accessdate=12 August 2012}}</ref>
[[Gordon Brown]] pointed to the [[2012 Summer Olympics medal table|2012 medal count]] for Great Britain, saying that it showed the success of a union that included the two nations.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/2012/08/201281914931705215.html |title=Who will claim the Olympics? |publisher= |work=Al Jazeera |date= |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> Scottish athletes were involved in 13 of the 65 medals won by Great Britain in 2012, but only three of those were won by Scots without assistance from other athletes.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/olympics/24081596 |title=Scottish independence: 'Scotland Olympic team could be in Rio' |work=BBC Sport |publisher=BBC |date=18 September 2013 |accessdate=9 May 2014}}</ref> [[Chris Hoy|Sir Chris Hoy]] said in May 2013 that it could "take time" for Scottish athletes to "establish themselves in a new training environment", indicating that the good performance of Scottish athletes in the Great Britain team would not automatically translate into that of an independent Scotland team.<ref name = "hoy"/> Hoy also said that he believed the lack of facilities and coaching infrastructure in Scotland would have to be addressed by an independent state.<ref name = "hoy">{{cite web |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/sir-chris-hoy-independence-will-make-it-harder-for-scots-athletes-to-reach-their-potential.1369743799|title=Sir Chris Hoy: independence will make it harder for Scots athletes to reach their potential |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |date=28 May 2013|accessdate=28 May 2013}}</ref>
===Status of Northern and Western Isles===
{{main|Constitutional status of Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles}}
The prospect of an independent Scotland has raised questions about the future of the [[Northern Isles]] ([[Orkney]] and [[Shetland]]) and the [[Outer Hebrides|Western Isles]], island groups off the Scottish mainland. Some islanders have called for separate referendums to be held in the islands on 25 September 2014, one week after the Scottish referendum.<ref>{{cite news|url=
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/10705477/Shetland-and-Orkney-should-get-vote-on-whether-to-leave-Scotland.html|title=Shetland and Orkney should get vote on whether to leave Scotland|date=18 March 2014|publisher=Daily Telegraph|accessdate=26 March 2014|first=Ben|last=Riley-Smith}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.apnewsarchive.com/2014/Scotland%27s_Vikings_go_own_way_in_independence_vote/id-df9487dfda21429c8fe71bdbf5cdcf87 |title=Scotland's Vikings go own way in independence vote |date=23 March 2014|agency=Associated Press |accessdate=9 May 2014|first=Jill |last=Lawless}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/2014/03/24/uk-scotland-independence-islands-idUKBREA2N1FV20140324|title=Scottish islanders seek votes for own independence|publisher=Reuters|date=24 March 2014|accessdate=26 March 2014}}</ref> In March 2014, the Scottish Parliament published the online petition it had received calling for such referendums, which was supported by Shetland MSP [[Tavish Scott]].<ref name = "petition">{{cite web|url=http://www.shetnews.co.uk/features/scottish-independence-debate/8175-island-referendum-petition-launched |title=Island referendum petition launched |publisher= |work=[[Shetland Times]] |date=18 March 2014|accessdate=26 March 2014}}</ref> The referendums would ask islanders to choose from three options: that the island group should become an independent country; it should remain in Scotland; or (in the event of Scottish independence) it should remain in the UK.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/petition-for-independence-in-the-western-isles-shetland-and-orkney.23732164|title=Petition for independence in the Western Isles, Shetland and Orkney |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |date=19 March 2014|accessdate=26 March 2014}}</ref>
The third option would implement the conditional promise made in 2012, when an SNP spokesperson said that, in the event of Scottish independence, Orkney and Shetland could remain in the United Kingdom if their "drive for self-determination" was strong enough.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/politics/9156220/SNP-admits-Shetland-and-Orkney-could-opt-out-of-independent-Scotland.html|title=SNP admits Shetland and Orkney could opt out of independent Scotland|date=20 March 2012|accessdate=2 September 2013|work=Daily Telegraph |publisher=Telegraph Media Group |first=Simon|last=Johnson}}</ref> Politicians in the three island groups have referred to the Scottish referendum as the most important event in their political history "since the inception of the island councils in 1975". Angus Campbell, leader of the Western Isles, said that the ongoing constitutional debate "offers the opportunity for the three island councils to secure increased powers for our communities to take decisions which will benefit the economies and the lives of those who live in the islands".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-22934024|title=Orkney, Shetland and Western Isles councils lobby for more powers |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=17 June 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref>
In a meeting of the island councils in March 2013, leaders of the three territories discussed their future in the event of Scottish independence, including whether the islands could demand and achieve autonomous status within either Scotland or the rest of the UK. Among the scenarios proposed were achieving either [[Crown Dependency]] status or self-government modelled after the [[Faroe Islands]], in association with either Scotland or the UK.<ref name="guardianisles">{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/mar/17/scottish-independence-islands-home-rule|title=Scottish independence: islands consider their own 'home rule' |work=The Guardian |publisher= |date=17 March 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> Steven Heddle, Orkney's council leader, described pursuing Crown Dependency status as the least likely option, as it would threaten funding from the EU, which is essential for local farmers.<ref name="guardianisles" /> Alasdair Allan, MSP for the Western Isles, said independence could have a positive impact on the isles, as "crofters and farmers could expect a substantial uplift in agricultural and rural development funding via the Common Agricultural Policy if Scotland were an independent member state of the EU".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.stornowaygazette.co.uk/news/local-headlines/what-independence-white-paper-could-mean-for-the-isles-1-3210531|title=What independence White Paper could mean for the Isles |work=Stornoway Gazette |publisher= |date=27 November 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013}}</ref>
In July 2013, the Scottish government made the [[Lerwick Declaration]], indicating an interest in devolving power to Scotland's islands. By November, it had made a commitment to devolve further powers to Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles in the event of independence.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/islands-set-to-win-key-decision-making-powers-with-unprecedented-legislatio.22769214|title=Islands set to win key decision-making powers with unprecedented legislation |last=Ross |first=David |work=The Herald (Glasgow)|date=23 November 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013}}</ref> Steven Heddle called for legislation to that effect to be introduced regardless of the referendum result.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.shetnews.co.uk/news/7640-islands-act-should-not-depend-on-independence|title=Islands Act should not depend on independence |work=Shetland News |publisher= |date=21 November 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013}}</ref>
===Universities===
====Scientific research====
In 2012–13, Scottish universities received 13.1% of [[Research Councils UK]] funding.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/255788/bis-13-1115-scotland-analysis-science-and-research.pdf |title=Scotland analysis: Science and research |work=www.gov.uk |publisher=UK Government |date=November 2013 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref> Dr Alan Trench of [[University College London]] has said that Scottish universities receive a "hugely disproportionate" level of funding and would no longer be able to access it following independence. Willie Rennie, leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, has suggested that independence would mean Scottish universities losing £210m in research funding.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotlibdems.org.uk/news/2011/11/uk-link-funds-rd-funding-scotland|title=UK link funds R&D funding in Scotland |work=www.scotlibdems.org.uk |publisher=|date=27 November 2011|accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref> The Institute of Physics in Scotland warned that access to international facilities such as the [[CERN]] [[Large Hadron Collider]], the [[European Space Agency]], and [[European Southern Observatory]] could require renegotiation by the Scottish government.<ref name = "scientists"/> It also expressed concerns about research funding from UK charities and the reaction of international companies with Scottish facilities.<ref name = "scientists">{{cite web|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/uk/scottish-independence-scientists-setback-fears-1-3008634|title=Scottish independence: Scientists setback fears |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=21 July 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013}}</ref>
The Scottish government's education secretary, [[Michael Russell (politician)|Michael Russell]], has said that Scotland's universities have a "global reputation" that would continue to attract investment after independence.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.stv.tv/politics/282953-scottish-university-research-at-risk-from-independence-claim-libdems/|title=Scottish university research at risk from independence, claim LibDems|date=27 November 2011|accessdate=21 May 2013}}</ref> In September 2013, the principal of the [[University of Aberdeen]] said that Scottish universities could continue to access UK research funding through a "single research area" that crossed both nations' boundaries.<ref>{{cite news |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/education/scottish-independence-unis-could-get-uk-funds-1-3070092|title=Scottish independence: Unis 'could get UK funds'|date=1 September 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> David Bell, professor of economics at the [[University of Stirling]], said that cross-border collaboration might continue, but Scottish universities could still lose their financial advantage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/news/state-of-independence-could-prove-costly-scots-warned/2004011.article|title=State of independence could prove costly, Scots warned|date=23 May 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013}}</ref> Roger Cook of the Scotland Institute pointed out that although Scottish universities do receive a higher share of Research Councils funding, they are much less dependent on this as a source of funding than their counterparts in England.<ref name = "experts">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25847084 |title=Scottish independence referendum: Experts examine the claims |first1=Martin |last1=Currie |first2=Andrew |last2=Black |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=12 February 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref> Professors from Scotland's five medical schools have written an open letter warning that independence would mean Scotland's researcher base being "denied its present ability to win proportionately more grant funding".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27294970|title=Scottish independence: What is dividing academics?|work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=23 May 2014 |accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref>
Questions have been asked whether Scotland, as an economy of a smaller size than the UK, would still support the same level of research activity, and what additional efforts might be required to establish a system of research councils "north of the border".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/higher-education-network/blog/2014/aug/18/scottish-independence-impact-university-research|title=Scottish independence: how would it affect university research funding?|work=Guardian Blog|publisher=Guardian |date=18 August 2014 |accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.labtimes.org/editorial/e_523.lasso|title=To be or not to be Independent, that is the Question!|work=Lab Times|date=17 July 2014 |accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref> Jo Shaw, Salvesen chair of European institutions at the [[University of Edinburgh]], noted that in smaller states, relationships between universities and research funders become "cosy", and lead to a "corporatist" approach.<ref name = "timeshighereducation">{{cite news |url=http://www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/features/what-might-independence-mean-for-scotlands-universities/2013795.article|title=Scottish independence: how would it affect university research funding?|publisher=Times Higher Education |date=12 June 2014 |accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref>
====Student funding====
{{See also|Tuition fees in the United Kingdom}}
Students domiciled in Scotland do not pay tuition fees.<ref name = "endowment">{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/6747811.stm |title=Q&A : Graduate endowments |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=13 June 2007 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref> Students domiciled in the rest of the UK are charged fees of up to £9,000 per annum by Scottish universities,<ref name = "squeezed">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-22621470 |title=Scottish independence: Students could be 'squeezed out' of home universities |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=22 May 2013 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref> but those from other EU member states are not charged fees, in order to comply with the [[European Convention on Human Rights]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/618698.stm |title=Full text of tuition fees agreement |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=25 January 2000 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref>
If Scotland became an independent state, students from the rest of the UK would be in the position in which students from the rest of the EU are.<ref name = "squeezed"/> A University of Edinburgh study found that this would cause a loss in funding and could potentially squeeze out Scottish students.<ref name = "squeezed"/> The study suggested three courses of action for an independent Scotland: introduce tuition fees for all students; negotiate an agreement with the EU where a quota of student places would be reserved for Scots; or introduce a separate admissions service for students from other EU member states, with an admission fee attached.<ref name = "squeezed"/> It concluded that the EU may allow a quota system for some specialist subjects, such as medicine, where there is a clear need for local students to be trained for particular careers, but that other subjects would not be eligible.<ref name = "squeezed"/> The study also found that their third suggestion would run against the spirit of the [[Bologna agreement]], which aims to encourage EU student mobility.<ref name = "squeezed"/>
The Scottish government stated in its white paper, ''[[Scotland's Future]]'', that the present tuition fees arrangement would remain in place in an independent Scotland, as the EU allows for different fee arrangements in "exceptional circumstances".<ref name = "MPs claim"/> [[Jan Figel]], a former EU commissioner for education, said in January 2014 that it would be illegal for an independent Scotland to apply a different treatment to students from the rest of the UK.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/education/scottish-independence-ruk-tuition-fees-illegal-1-3271703 |title=Scottish independence: rUK tuition fees 'illegal' |first=Andrew |last=Whitaker |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=17 January 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref> The Law Society of Scotland concurred.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/10964744/Scottish-tuition-fees-for-English-students-could-be-illegal-under-independence-lawyers-warn.html |title=Scottish tuition fees for English students could be illegal under independence, lawyers warn |publisher=Telegraph |date=14 July 2014 |accessdate=2014-08-26}}</ref> A report by a House of Commons select committee stated that it would cost an independent Scottish government £150 million to provide free tuition to students from the rest of the UK.<ref name = "MPs claim">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26596530 |title=Scottish independence: MPs claim Yes vote would damage education |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=16 March 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref> A group of academics campaigning for independence expressed concern that the present arrangements would not continue if Scotland stayed within the UK, due to public spending cuts in England and the consequential effects of the [[Barnett formula]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26233150 |title=Scottish independence: Higher education only safe with 'Yes' vote, say academics |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=17 February 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref>
===Welfare===
The Yes campaign has argued that control of [[welfare|welfare policy]] would be a major benefit of independence.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yesscotland.net/news/scotland-can-do-better-welfare-and-pensions|title=Scotland can do better on Welfare and Pensions|date=31 July 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> According to the [[Institute for Fiscal Studies]], independence would "give the opportunity for more radical reform, so that the [welfare] system better reflects the views of the Scottish people".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ifs.org.uk/bns/bn139.pdf|title=Government spending on benefits and state pensions in Scotland: current patterns and future issues|date=July 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> Yes Scotland and deputy first minister Nicola Sturgeon have said the existing welfare system can only be guaranteed by voting for independence.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/benefits-could-switch-easily-after-yes-vote.21293018|title=Benefits could switch easily after a Yes vote, say SNP expert group|date=10 June 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yesscotland.net/news/only-yes-vote-will-meet-demands-more-powers|title=Only a Yes vote will meet demands for more powers|date=6 January 2014|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> In September 2013, the [[Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations]] (SCVO), which represents charities, called for a separate welfare system to be established in Scotland.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/scotland-needs-a-separate-welfare-system-say-charities.22295346|title=Scotland needs a separate welfare system, say charities|date=29 September 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref>
In November 2013, the Scottish government pledged to use the powers of independence to reverse key aspects of the [[Welfare Reform Act 2012]], which was implemented across the UK despite opposition from a majority of Scotland's MPs. It said it would abolish [[Universal Credit]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/white-paper-preview-snp-key-pledge-well-scrap-uk-welfare-reforms-in-a-faire.22776588|title=White Paper preview: SNP key pledge: we'll scrap UK welfare reforms in a fairer Scotland|date=24 November 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> and the [[bedroom tax]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/sturgeon-well-kick-out-the-bedroom-tax-in-an-independent-scotland.20600901|title=Sturgeon: we'll kick out the bedroom tax in an independent Scotland|date=24 March 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> The SNP has also criticised [[Rachel Reeves]], Labour's shadow secretary of state for work and pensions, for saying<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/oct/12/labour-benefits-tories-labour-rachel-reeves-welfare|title=Labour will be tougher than Tories on benefits, promises new welfare chief|date=12 October 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> a future UK Labour government would be even tougher on benefits than the [[Cameron ministry]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.snp.org/media-centre/news/2014/jan/snp-comment-joseph-rowntree-foundation%E2%80%99s-report|title=SNP comment on Joseph Rowntree Foundation's report|date=24 January 2014|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.snp.org/media-centre/news/2013/oct/report-reveals-dismal-future-no-campaign-offers|title=Report reveals dismal future no campaign offers|date=13 October 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref>
In January 2012, sources close to the prime minister told ''[[The Scotsman]]'' that "a unified tax and benefit system is at the heart of a united country" and that these powers could not be devolved to Scotland after the referendum,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/no-further-tax-powers-for-scotland-says-david-cameron-1-2084365|title=No further tax powers for Scotland, says David Cameron|date=29 January 2012|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> though Liberal Democrat [[Michael Moore (British politician)|Michael Moore]] said in August 2013 that devolution of parts of the welfare budget should be "up for debate".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/moore-welfare-budget-could-be-devolved.21835798|title=Moore: welfare budget could be devolved|date=11 August 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> Labour politician [[Jim Murphy]], a former [[Secretary of State for Scotland]], has argued that he is "fiercely committed" to devolving welfare powers to the Scottish Parliament, but also warned that independence would be disruptive and would not be beneficial.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26612190 |title=Scottish independence: Labour's Jim Murphy warns of 'disruptive change' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=17 March 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> Scottish Labour's Devolution Commission recommended in March 2014 that some aspects of the welfare state, including housing benefit and attendance allowance, should be devolved.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/labour-reveal-plans-following-no-vote-1-3344020 |title=Labour reveal plans following No vote |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=19 March 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014 |first=Andrew |last=Whitaker}}</ref>
==Responses==
{{seealso|Endorsements in the Scottish independence referendum, 2014}}
===Markets and financial companies===
Sterling fell by almost one cent against the US dollar in a day early in September 2014, due to an opinion poll showing a swing towards the Yes campaign.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/2014/09/02/uk-markets-uk-scotland-idUKKBN0GX1SU20140902?type=GCA-ForeignExchange|title=Scottish independence uncertainty drags sterling to five-month lows|agency=Reuters|publisher=|accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref> ''The Financial Times'' reported a few days later that "Asset managers, investors and pension savers are moving billions of pounds out of Scotland" because of fears that Scotland would leave the UK.<ref name="money">{{cite web|url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/c43c9a14-3846-11e4-9fc2-00144feabdc0.html#axzz3CoIKQD2C|title=Investors pull cash ahead of Scots vote |first1=Alistair|last1=Gray|first2=Josephine |last2=Cumbo |first3=Martin|last3=Arnold|work=Financial Times |publisher= |date=9 September 2014 |accessdate=10 September 2014}}</ref> The newspaper also reported that "'exit clauses' are being inserted into commercial property contracts in Scotland to allow buyers to scrap deals or renegotiate prices if voters opt for independence".<ref name="money" />
Financial groups [[The Royal Bank of Scotland]], [[Lloyds Banking Group|Lloyds]], [[Clydesdale Bank]], [[TSB Bank (United Kingdom)|TSB]] and [[Tesco Bank]] announced that they planned to move their registered headquarters from Scotland to England in the event of Scotland voting to leave the UK; most indicated that they had no immediate intention to transfer any jobs.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-29151798|title=Scottish independence: RBS confirms London HQ move if Scotland votes Yes |date=11 September 2014|accessdate=11 September 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=httphttp://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/banksandfinance/11089465/What-banks-are-heading-for-the-exit-door-if-Scotland-votes-for-independence.html|first=James|last=Titcomb|title=What banks are heading for the exit door if Scotland votes for independence?|publisher=The Daily Telegraph|date=11 September 2014|accessdate=11 September 2014}}</ref>
The chief executive of [[Thales]], one of Britain's largest defence suppliers, said that if Scotland became independent that this might raise questions about continued investment from his firm.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/scottish-independence-thales-warns-job-investment-cuts-union-break-1464654|title=Scottish Independence: Thales Warns of Job and Investment Cuts on Union Break|work=International Business Times UK|accessdate=17 September 2014}}</ref>
[[Deutsche Bank]] issued a report in the week prior to the referendum and the media reported on 13 September that David Folkerts-Landau, the bank's chief economist, had concluded: "While it may sound simple and costless for a nation to exit a 300 year-old union, nothing could be further from the truth". Folkerts-Landau claimed that the economic prospects after a "yes" vote were "incomprehensible," citing [[Winston Churchill]]’s 1925 [[Monetary reform#Return to the gold standard|Gold Standard]] decision and the actions of America's [[Federal Reserve]] that triggered the [[Great Depression]] of the 1930s, as other mistakes of a similar magnitude. The Swiss [[UBS]] financial services company supported the position of the Deutsche Bank.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Simon Johnson|title=Scotland heading for a 'Great Depression' after a Yes vote|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/11093574/Scotland-heading-for-a-Great-Depression-after-a-Yes-vote.html|accessdate=13 September 2014|work=The Telegraph|date=13 September 2014}}</ref>
===Demonstrations===
A number of [[demonstration (people)|demonstrations]] in support of independence have been co-ordinated since the announcement of the referendum. The [[March and Rally for Scottish Independence]] in September 2012 drew a crowd of between 5,000 and 10,000 people to [[Princes Street Gardens]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-19685144|title=Thousands at Scottish independence rally in Edinburgh|date=22 September 2012|accessdate=22 September 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref> The event was repeated in September 2013; police estimated that over 8,000 people took part in the march, while organisers and the [[Scottish Police Federation]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/Scotspolfed/status/382171770595205120|title=Twitter / Scotspolfed|date=23 September 2013|accessdate=1 October 2013}}</ref> claimed between 20,000 and 30,000 people took part in the combined march and rally.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/yes-scotland-the-march-for-independence-is-under-way.1379759038|title=Yes Scotland: thousands show up for independence march|date=21 September 2013|accessdate=22 September 2013}}</ref> The March and Rally was criticised in both 2012 and 2013 for the involvement of groups like the [[Scottish Republican Socialist Movement]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/union-flag-burning-group-expelled-from-salmond-rally.18893616|title=Union flag burning group expelled from Salmond rally|date=16 September 2012|accessdate=9 August 2013}}</ref> and [[Vlaamse Volksbeweging]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/10325655/Far-Right-group-allied-to-Scottish-separatists.html|title=Far-Right group allied to Scottish separatists|date=22 September 2013|accessdate=22 September 2013|work=The Daily Telegraph|first=Andrew|last=Gilligan}}</ref>
===Online campaigns===
At the launch of the [[Yes Scotland]] campaign in May 2012, Alex Salmond said that the case for independence would be driven by community activism and "online wizardry".<ref>{{cite news|title=Scottish independence: One million Scots urged to sign 'yes' declaration|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-18162832|accessdate=24 August 2014|work=BBC News|date=25 May 2012}}</ref>
The not-for-profit and non-partisan ''What Scotland Thinks'' project has tracked poll and survey data, including online activity, during the referendum campaign. The project is run by ScotCen Social Research, which is part of NatCen, Britain's foremost independent social research agency.<ref>{{cite web|title=About What Scotland Thinks|url=http://whatscotlandthinks.org/about-what-scotland-thinks|website=What Scotland Thinks|publisher=NatCen|accessdate=24 August 2014|year=2014}}</ref> Using data from the Applied Quantitative Methods Network (AQMeN) research centre, the project publishes the social media activity of the two main campaigns, Yes Scotland and [[Better Together (campaign)|Better Together]], by monitoring their respective Facebook and Twitter accounts since August 2013.<ref name="Feb">{{cite web|author1=Dr. Stephen Quinlan and Dr. Mark Shephard|title=Racing Ahead Online: Catching Up Offline?|url=http://blog.whatscotlandthinks.org/2014/02/racing-ahead-online-catching-up-offline/|website=What Scotland Thinks|publisher=NatCen|accessdate=24 August 2014|date=21 February 2014}}</ref> ''What Scotland Thinks'' published a report in February 2014 stating that the Yes Scotland campaign was gaining more Facebook likes. Following the launch of the White Paper on 26 November, the average gap between the two Facebook pages grew from about 8,000 to about 23,000 by February 2014. Analysis of the campaigns' Twitter accounts showed the gap between the campaigns increased from approximately 8,000 in August 2013 to 13,804 in February 2014, in favour of Yes Scotland.<ref name="Feb" /> The project published a further report in June 2014 saying that greater online activity for Yes Scotland had continued.<ref name="June">{{cite web|author1=Dr. Mark Shephard and Dr. Stephen Quinlan|title=Yes Side Maintains Advantage in The Online Campaign Battle|url=http://blog.whatscotlandthinks.org/2014/06/yes-side-maintains-advantage-in-the-online-campaign-battl/?fid=13910&isc=1&did=74be12f3b0fb24f57380980e2ca92f19ecc648da&ctp=article|website=What Scotland Thinks|publisher=NatCen|accessdate=24 August 2014|date=19 June 2014}}</ref>
Greater online activity amongst Yes supporters was confirmed by polling conducted by TNS BMRB in June 2014, which showed that "Yes supporters were three times more likely to have discussed the independence question online." Professor Michael Keating said in April 2014 that the pro-independence movement was visibly stronger and fighting a "ground war", while UK government supporters are fighting an "'air war' of facts and figures".<ref>{{cite web|author1=Michael Keating|title=Foresight: Scotland Decides|url=http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/store/10.1111/2041-9066.12043/asset/pins12043.pdf;jsessionid=0CA031109889179C8EA04FFAE6F8FD7A.f04t04?v=1&t=hz8i2pma&s=a0220dbc36cf4d6caf744bf1568efe27974d87e5|website=Wiley Online Library|publisher=John Wiley & Sons, Inc|accessdate=24 August 2014|date=April 2014}}</ref>
The launch of online celebrity videos from both viewpoints was reported by the media in mid-July 2014. The "Let's Stay Together – 'Scotland, you're my best friend'" YouTube video was produced by pro-union campaigners who sought to "show Scotland we [the rest of the UK] do care", and featured [[John Barrowman]], [[Ross Kemp]] and [[Eddie Izzard]]. The video was produced by the "Let's Stay Together" campaign that describes itself as "the campaign for everyone in England, Wales and Northern Ireland who doesn't have a vote in the Scottish referendum, but wants to have voice in saying #letsstaytogether" on its YouTube channel.<ref>{{cite web|title=Let's Stay Together|url=https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSaBGoZMdLPSGGRS96fbLWw|website=Let's Stay Together on YouTube|publisher=Google Inc|accessdate=24 August 2014|date=July 2014}}</ref> The pro-independence video was produced by Yes Scotland and appeared on the campaign's YouTube channel. Titled "✘ on September 18th #voteYes", the video features 32 "well known faces from across the independence movement", including [[David Hayman]], [[Martin Compston]] and [[Stuart Braithwaite]].
The pro-independence organisation [[National Collective]] was identified by the ''Independent'' newspaper as the initiators of an online [[hashtag]] campaign that began in mid-August 2014. Writing for the ''Independent'', Antonia Molloy said that the previous "#IndyReasons" hashtag campaign served as the inspiration for the "#YesBecause" campaign that was observed on the Twitter, Facebook and Vine social media platforms. From 21 August, users were invited to explain their reasons for voting "Yes" and #YesBecause was trending on Twitter after an hour from the launch.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Antonia Molloy|title=Scottish Independence: #YesBecause hashtag shows 'unfiltered reality' of Yes campaign|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/scottish-independence/scottish-independence-yesbecause-hashtag-shows-unfiltered-reality-of-yes-campaign-9683541.html|accessdate=24 August 2014|work=The Independent|date=21 August 2014}}</ref> The [[Canadian Broadcasting Corporation]] (CBC) reported on 22 August that a "#NoBecause" campaign emerged in opposition to the Collective.<ref>{{cite web|title=#YesBecause vs. #NoBecause as Scottish independence referendum looms|url=https://storify.com/cbccommunity/yesbecause-vs-nobecause-as-scottish-independence?utm_campaign=website&utm_source=email&utm_medium=email|website=CBC News on Storify|publisher=Storify|accessdate=24 August 2014|date=22 August 2014}}</ref>
===Debates===
{{details|Salmond & Darling: The Debate|the first televised debate between [[Alex Salmond]] and [[Alistair Darling]]}}
{{details|Scotland Decides: Salmond versus Darling|the second televised debate between Salmond and Darling}}
Debates over the issue of independence have taken place on television, in communities, and within universities and societies since the announcement of the referendum.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/local/dundee/independence-debate-wins-students-over-1.134308 |work=The Courier |publisher=DC Thomson |title=Independence debate wins students over|date=24 September 2013|accessdate=7 October 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yesscotland.net/news/yes-wins-napier-referendum |title=Yes wins Napier referendum |work=www.yesscotland.net |publisher=Yes Scotland |date=15 November 2013|accessdate=16 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.strathstudents.com/indyref |title=Strath Indy Ref – Strathstudents |accessdate=19 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/local/perth-kinross/the-nos-have-it-at-perth-kinross-youth-council-s-independence-question-time-1.156266 |work=The Courier |publisher=DC Thomson |title=The 'Nos' have it at Perth & Kinross Youth Council's independence question time|date=21 November 2013|accessdate=23 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yesscotland.net/news/yes-vote-triumph-scottish-labour-leaders-own-backyard|title=Yes vote triumph in Scottish Labour leader's own backyard |work=www.yesscotland.net |publisher=Yes Scotland|date=29 November 2013|accessdate=2 December 2013}}</ref> The [[STV (TV channel)|STV]] current affairs programme ''[[Scotland Tonight]]'' has televised a series of debates: [[Nicola Sturgeon]] v [[Michael Moore (British politician)|Michael Moore]],<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.stv.tv/politics/225688-nicola-sturgeon-and-michael-moore-clash-in-independence-debate/ |title=Nicola Sturgeon and Michael Moore clash in independence debate |first=Stephen |last=Daisley |work=STV News |date=17 May 2013 |accessdate=7 October 2013}}</ref> Sturgeon v [[Anas Sarwar]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thetarge.co.uk/hub-current-affairs/scotland/stv-prepare-for-second-referendum-debate/0093|title=STV prepare for second referendum debate|date=5 September 2013|accessdate=7 October 2013}}</ref> Sturgeon v [[Alistair Carmichael]]<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.stv.tv/scotland/248078-alistair-carmichael-faces-nicola-sturgeon-in-scotland-tonight-debate/|title=Alistair Carmichael faces Nicola Sturgeon in Scotland Tonight debate |work=STV News |date=11 November 2013 |accessdate=16 November 2013}}</ref> and Sturgeon v [[Johann Lamont]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.stv.tv/politics/263966-scotland-tonight-nicola-sturgeon-and-johann-lamont-to-debate-referendum/|title=STV announces Nicola Sturgeon and Johann Lamont referendum debate |work=STV News |date=13 February 2014|accessdate=13 February 2014}}</ref> On 21 January 2014, BBC Two Scotland broadcast the first in a series of round-table debates, which was filmed in Greenock and chaired by James Cook.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-25817623|title=Scottish independence: The Referendum Debate |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=21 January 2014|accessdate=22 January 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-25815960 |title=As-it-happened: Scottish independence referendum debate |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC|date=21 January 2014|accessdate=22 January 2014}}</ref>
The Yes campaign repeatedly called for there to be a televised debate between UK Prime Minister David Cameron and First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond. These calls for a one-on-one debate were dismissed by Cameron<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-24297286|title=Scottish independence: David Cameron will not have TV debate with Alex Salmond|date=27 September 2013|accessdate=7 October 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-24324681|title=Scottish independence: TV debate row continues|date=29 September 2013|accessdate=7 October 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref> on the basis that the referendum is "for Scots to decide" and the debate should be "between people in Scotland who want to stay, and people in Scotland who want to go".<ref name="bbcdebate">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25607826|title=Scottish independence: Cameron again rejects Salmond TV debate challenge|date=5 January 2014|accessdate=5 January 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref> Calls for such a debate were also supported by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown who said it would be a "good idea".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27779131|title=Scottish independence: MP 'anger' over Brown debate call|work=BBC News |date=10 June 2014 |accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref> Better Together chairman [[Alistair Darling]] accused Salmond of "running scared" from debating him instead,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/alistair-darling-alex-salmond-scared-of-tv-debate-1-3094143 |first=Eddie |last=Barnes |title=Alistair Darling: Alex Salmond scared of TV debate |work=The Scotsman |date=15 September 2013|accessdate=22 October 2013}}</ref> although Sturgeon stated in 2013 that a Salmond–Darling debate would take place at some point.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/sturgeon-salmond-will-debate-independence-with-darling-and-carmichael-before-referend.1382027965 |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |title=Sturgeon: Salmond will have indyref debate with Darling, Carmichael after Cameron snub|date=17 October 2013 |accessdate=5 January 2014}}</ref> Darling refused a public debate with Yes Scotland chairman [[Blair Jenkins]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/9568908/Alistair-Darling-Yes-Scotland-chief-is-Alex-Salmond-underling.html|date=27 September 2012 |accessdate=3 March 2014 |work=Daily Telegraph |publisher=Telegraph Media Group |title=Alistair Darling: Yes Scotland chief is Alex Salmond underling |first=Simon |last=Johnson}}</ref> [[UKIP]] leader [[Nigel Farage]] also challenged Salmond to debate, but Farage was dismissed by an SNP spokeswoman as "an irrelevance in Scotland".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/nigel-farage-challenges-salmond-to-tv-debate-1-3376352 |title=Nigel Farage challenges Salmond to TV debate |work=The Scotsman |first=David |last=Maddox |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=15 April 2014 |accessdate=18 April 2014}}</ref>
After weeks of negotiation, a debate between Salmond and Darling was arranged.<ref name="autogenerated2"/> The programme, titled as ''[[Salmond & Darling: The Debate]]'', was broadcast by [[STV (TV channel)|STV]] on 5 August 2014. A second debate between Salmond and Darling, titled ''[[Scotland Decides: Salmond versus Darling]]'' was shown on [[BBC One Scotland]] (and [[BBC Two]] in the rest of the UK) on 25 August.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28780811 |title=Scottish independence: BBC confirms Salmond-Darling debate |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=13 August 2014 |accessdate=13 August 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28929057 |title=Scottish independence: Salmond and Darling clash in heated TV debate |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=25 August 2014 |accessdate=25 August 2014}}</ref>
===Threats of secession from Scotland===
Both the [[Shetland Islands]] and [[Orkney Islands]] have launched campaigns for autonomy within Scotland entitled "Our Islands, Our Future".<ref name="fp">{{Cite web |url=http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2014/09/16/clod_washed_away_by_sea_europe_less_scottish_independence_referendum_lewis_island |title=If a Clod Be Washed Away by the Sea, Europe Is the Less |last=Geoghegan |first=Peter |work=[[Foreign Policy]] |date=16 September 2014}}</ref>
==Accusations of BBC bias==
During the campaign, there have been allegations by some independence supporters that the [[BBC]]—the UK's national broadcaster—is biased against Scottish independence.<ref name="BBCIndy" />
In January 2014, a year-long academic study by researchers at the [[University of the West of Scotland]] found that both BBC and STV coverage had been favouring the No campaign.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/politics/joan-mcalpine-tv-bosses-must-3042339 |title=Opinion: Joan McAlpine: TV bosses must act on findings of study that show indy coverage isn't the balanced affair it should be |first=Joan |last=McAlpine |work=[[Daily Record (Scotland)|Daily Record]] |date=21 January 2014 |accessdate=16 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fifenewsonline.co.uk/news/bbc-accused-of-anti-independence-bias-by-academic-report |title=BBC Accused of Anti-Independence Bias by Academic Report |work=Fife News Online |date=24 January 2014 |accessdate=16 September 2014}}</ref><ref>Robertson, John. [https://www.opendemocracy.net/ourkingdom/john-robertson/bbc-bias-and-scots-referendum-new-report BBC bias and the Scots referendum - new report]. OpenDemocracy. 21 February 2014.</ref> In March, [[BBC Scotland]] chiefs appeared before a Scottish Parliament committee to face questions from MSPs about the broadcaster's coverage. BBC Scotland Head, Ken McQuarrie, rejected the study's conclusions.<ref>{{cite web|title=Official Report: Education and Culture Committee 11 March 2014|url=http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/28862.aspx?r=9013|publisher=Scottish Parliament|accessdate=16 September 2014|date=2014-03-11}}</ref>
On 29 June, hundreds joined a demonstration outside the BBC Scotland [[BBC Pacific Quay|headquarters]] in Glasgow in protest at the BBC's alleged bias.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/pro-independence-campaigners-protest-outside-bbc-studios.24620136 |first=Magnus |last=Gardham |title=Pro-independence campaigners protest outside BBC studios |work=Herald Scotland |date=30 June 2014|accessdate=17 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thedrum.com/news/2014/06/30/hundreds-protesters-gather-over-ongoing-bbc-bias-row-scottish-independence|title="Hundreds of protesters gather over ongoing 'BBC bias' row in Scottish independence referendum coverage"|work=The Drum|accessdate=17 September 2014}}</ref> On 14 September, four days before the vote, thousands took part in a protest march and rally at the BBC Scotland headquarters, accusing the BBC of broadcasting pro-Union "propaganda" and "lies".<ref name="BBCIndy" /> They also called for the sacking of BBC political editor [[Nick Robinson]].<ref name="BBCIndy" /> A petition demanding an independent inquiry into allegations of BBC bias—on the [[38 Degrees]] website—had attracted 70,000 signatures.<ref name="BBCIndy" /> In an interview for the ''Sunday Herald'', Scottish First Minister [[Alex Salmond]] said he believed the BBC had been unconsciously biased against independence.<ref name="BBCIndy" /> English journalist [[Paul Mason (journalist)|Paul Mason]] commented: "Not since Iraq have I seen BBC News working at propaganda strength like this".<ref name="BBCIndy">{{cite web|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/media/bbc-scotland-protests-scottish-independence-referendum-coverage-institutionally-biased-salmond-claims-9732095.html |title=Scottish independence: BBC Scotland's referendum coverage 'institutionally biased', Alex Salmond claims |first=Chris |last=Green |work=The Independent |date=14 September 2014 |accessdate=16 September 2014}}</ref> The BBC replied that "Our coverage of the referendum story is fair and impartial in line with the editorial guidelines".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://rt.com/uk/187344-bbc-scottish-independence-bias/ |title=BBC accused of anti-independence bias after editing out Salmond’s reply to ‘bank exodus’ question |work=RT (TV network) |date=12 September 2014 |accessdate=16 September 2014}}</ref>
==Opinion polling==
{{Main|Opinion polling for the Scottish independence referendum, 2014}}
[[File:Scottish independence polls graphic.svg|thumb|350px|Results of polls to 11 Sep 2014]]
Professor [[John Curtice]] stated in January 2012 that polling showed support for independence at between 32%–38% of the Scottish population, a slight decline from 2007, when the SNP first formed the Scottish government.<ref name="poll research" /> By 2012, there had been no poll evidence of majority support for independence, although the share "vehemently opposed to independence" had declined.<ref name="poll research">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-16473265|title=Q&A: Scottish independence row|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=17 January 2012|accessdate=19 January 2012}}</ref> According to Curtice, the polls were remarkably stable during most of 2013, with the "no" camp leading by an average of 50% to 33% for "yes" with a year to go.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-24124631 |title=Scottish independence: What have the polls been saying? |first=John |last=Curtice |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=18 September 2013 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> Polling expert [[Nate Silver]] said in 2013 that the yes campaign had "virtually no chance" of winning the referendum.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/aug/13/nate-silver-scottish-independence-referendum |title=Scottish independence campaign has almost no chance, says Nate Silver |first=Charlotte |last=Higgins |work=The Guardian |publisher=Guardian News and Media Limited |date=13 August 2013 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref>
The polls tightened after the release of the Scottish government white paper on independence, with an average of 5 polls in December 2013 and January 2014 giving 39% yes and 61% no, once 'don't knows' had been excluded.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25917726 |title=Scottish independence: Are referendum polls on the move? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=27 January 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> The polls tightened further after the [[Chancellor of the Exchequer]], [[George Osborne]], stated in February that the UK government was opposed to a currency union; the average yes support increased to 43%, once 'don't knows' had been excluded.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blog.whatscotlandthinks.org/2014/03/yougov-reports-its-highest-yes-vote-yet/ |title=YouGov Reports Its Highest Yes Vote Yet |work=www.whatscotlandthinks.org |publisher=ScotCen Social Research |date=26 March 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014 |first=John |last=Curtice}}</ref> There was little movement in the following months, with the average continuing to show 43% yes and 57% no (excluding don't knows) in July 2014<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blog.whatscotlandthinks.org/2014/07/tns-bmrb-portray-a-referendum-campaign-becalmed/ |title=TNS BMRB Portray a Referendum Campaign Becalmed |first=John |last=Curtice |work=www.whatscotlandthinks.org |publisher=ScotCen Social Research |date=7 July 2014 |accessdate=7 July 2014 }}</ref> and August 2014.<ref name = "aug 2014 summary">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28921754 |title=Scottish independence: 'Invaluable second chance' for Alex Salmond |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |first=John |last=Curtice |date=25 August 2014 |accessdate=25 August 2014}}</ref> A poll conducted by YouGov in early September showed a closer race, with the average shares moving to 45% and 55%.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-29037323 |title=Scottish independence: Referendum race 'may have got tighter' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=2 September 2014 |accessdate=2 September 2014 |first=John |last=Curtice}}</ref> On 6 September a YouGov poll gave those in favour 47% versus 45% for those against; excluding those undecided, the figures were 51% and 49%, respectively.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-29096458 |title=Scottish independence: Vote 'will go to the wire' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=7 September 2014 |accessdate=7 September 2014 |first=|last=}}</ref> Survation carried out a poll for the ''Daily Record'' where 1000 Scots were contacted by landline, published on 10 September, and the results suggested that 53% might vote No, when excluding the undecided.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/independence-referendum-exclusive-daily-record-4196976 |title=Independence referendum: Exclusive Daily Record survey shows No campaign with six point lead |work=Daily Record |date=10 September 2014 |accessdate=10 September 2014 |first=Dave |last=Clegg}}</ref> The campaign to keep Scotland in the United Kingdom took an eight-point lead on September 13 with 54% vs. 46% per cent, according to the poll by Survation.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/11094230/Scottish-independence-poll-gives-Unionists-eight-point-lead.html |title=Scottish independence: poll gives Unionists eight-point lead |work=Telegraph |date=14 September 2014 |accessdate=14 September 2014 }}</ref>
There is disagreement between the pollsters as to the state of public opinion.<ref name = "aug 2014 summary"/><ref name = "curtice"/> Curtice has observed that ICM, Panelbase and Survation show higher yes support and TNS BMRB, YouGov and Ipsos Mori show less support for independence.<ref name = "aug 2014 summary"/><ref name = "curtice">{{cite news |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/scottish-independence-depending-on-the-pollster-it-looks-like-a-photo-finish-9284634.html |title=Scottish independence: Depending on the pollster, it looks like a photo finish |work=The Independent |publisher= |first=John |last=Curtice |date=24 April 2014 |accessdate=25 April 2014}}</ref> [[Peter Kellner]], the president of YouGov, noted in July 2014 that the average results for YouGov and TNS BMRB showed 41% support for independence (excluding don't knows), whereas ICM, Panelbase and Survation showed 45 or 46% support.<ref name = "kellner"/> Kellner said he believed the latter pollsters were overstating support for independence due to some SNP supporters being "passing nationalists" who had supported other parties (particularly Labour) in other elections.<ref name = "kellner">{{cite web |url=http://yougov.co.uk/news/2014/07/01/why-do-polls-scotland-vary-so-much/ |title=Why do the polls in Scotland vary so much? |work=www.yougov.co.uk |publisher= |date=1 July 2014 |accessdate=7 July 2014}}</ref> Patrick Briône, director of research for Survation, said in response that adjusting for these SNP ex-Labour voters would require too much upweighting of these voters in their sample.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://survation.com/response-to-yesterdays-times-yougov-articles-and-yougovs-published-research-about-survations-scottish-independence-methodology/ |title=Response To Yesterday's Times, YouGov Articles and YouGov's published research about Survation's Scottish Independence Methodology |work=www.survation.com |publisher= |date=3 July 2014 |accessdate=7 July 2014}}</ref>
==Result==
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| width=50% style="background-color: #66CC00;" | Yes :<br /> ''0'' ''''''
| width=50% style="background-color: #FF3399;" | No :<br /> ''0'' ''''''
|-
| colspan=4 style="text-align: center; line-height: 80%;" | '''▲'''
|}-->
The result will be announced by the Chief Counting Officer. The Scottish Independence Referendum Bill identifies the Convener of the Electoral Management Board for Scotland (EMB) as Chief Counting Officer for the referendum.<ref name="ccoa">[http://www.electionsscotland.info/emb/download/downloads/id/52/count_timing_for_2014_scottish_independence_referendum Report of 30 August 2013: Scottish Independence Referendum: The Chief Counting Officer’s Approach], Accessed 14 September 2014</ref> The Chief Counting Officer is Mary Pitcaithly, OBE.<ref name="hfpss">[http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/nmsruntime/saveasdialog.asp?lID=58768&sID=25275 Handbook for polling station staff], Accessed 14 September 2014</ref> She is supported by a Counting Officer in each of the [[Council areas of Scotland|32 local authority areas of Scotland]].<ref name="hfpss"/> Each Counting Officer has a referendum team for that area, which includes:
* Electoral Registration Officers. They compile and maintain the electoral register and lists of postal and proxy voters.<ref name="hfpss"/>
* Presiding Officers (one per polling place).<ref name="hfpss"/> They are responsible for the management of the polling place overall.
* Poll Clerks.<ref name="hfpss"/> They assist the Presiding Officer at their polling place.
* Polling Station Inspectors (optional).<ref name="hfpss"/> They tour the area polling stations on the day.
<!--
===By area===
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:right"
|-
!Constituency
!For (%)
!Against (%)
|-
|[[City of Aberdeen|Aberdeen City]]
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|[[Aberdeenshire (council area)|Aberdeenshire]]
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|[[Angus]]
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|[[Argyll and Bute]]
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|[[Clackmannanshire]]
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|[[Dumfries and Galloway]]
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|[[City of Dundee|Dundee City]]
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|[[East Ayrshire]]
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|[[East Dunbartonshire]]
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|[[East Lothian]]
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|[[East Renfrewshire]]
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|[[City of Edinburgh]]
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|[[Falkirk (council area)|Falkirk]]
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|[[Fife]]
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|[[Glasgow|Glasgow City]]
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|[[Highland (council area)|Highland]]
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|[[Inverclyde]]
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|[[Midlothian]]
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|[[Moray]]
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|[[North Ayrshire]]
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|[[North Lanarkshire]]
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|[[Perth and Kinross]]
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|-
|[[Renfrewshire]]
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|-
|[[Scottish Borders]]
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|-
|[[South Ayrshire]]
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|-
|[[South Lanarkshire]]
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|[[Stirling (council area)|Stirling]]
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|[[West Dunbartonshire]]
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|-
|[[West Lothian]]
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|[[Outer Hebrides|Na h-Eileanan Siar]]
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|[[Orkney Islands]]
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|[[Shetland Islands]]
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|}
-->
==See also==
{{portal|Scotland|British politics|2010s}}
* [[Catalan self-determination referendum]]
* [[Constitution of the United Kingdom]]
* [[Endorsements in the Scottish independence referendum, 2014]]
* [[History of Scottish devolution]]
* [[History of the Scottish National Party]]
* [[Politics of the United Kingdom]]
==References==
{{Reflist|30em|refs=
<ref name=Manifesto12Apr2007>{{cite web|url=http://www.thescottishstandard.net/snp-manifesto-2007.pdf|title=Manifesto 2007|date=12 April 2007|publisher=Scottish National Party|pages=8, 15|accessdate=11 September 2009}}</ref>
<ref name=DraftBill2007>{{cite web
|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2007/08/13103747/10
|title=Annex B Draft Referendum (Scotland) Bill
|publisher=[[Scottish Government]]
|work=Official website, Publications > 2007 > August > Choosing Scotland's Future: A National Conversatio > Part 10
|date=13 August 2009
|accessdate=10 September 2009
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5jgh02AMe
|archivedate=10 September 2009
}}</ref>
<ref name=Times3Sep09>{{cite news
|url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/scotland/article6820542.ece
|title=Salmond to push ahead with referendum Bill
|publisher=The Times
|date=3 September 2009
|accessdate=10 September 2009
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5jgoTKBiL
|archivedate=10 September 2009
| location=London
| first=Angus
| last=MacLeod
}}</ref>
<ref name=Independent30Nov09SNPReveals>{{cite news
|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/snp-reveals-vision-for-independence-referendum-1831469.html
|title=SNP reveals vision for independence referendum
|publisher=The Independent
|date=30 November 2009
|accessdate=30 November 2009
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5lfqjoj1A
|archivedate=30 November 2009
| location=London
| first=Joe
| last=Quinn
}}</ref>
<ref name=ScottishGovernment30Nov09NewsYSYV>{{cite web
|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2009/11/27154409
|title=Your Scotland, Your Voice
|publisher=Scottish Government
|work=www.scotland.gov.uk > News > News Releases > 2009 > November > YSYV
|date=30 November 2009
|accessdate=30 November 2009
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5lfsTqyxt
|archivedate=30 November 2009
}}</ref>
<ref name=BBCQnA3Sep09>{{cite news
|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/8235428.stm
|title=Q&A: Independence referendum
|publisher=BBC News
|date=3 September 2009
|accessdate=10 September 2009
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5jgkwdqHv
|archivedate=10 September 2009
| first=Andrew
| last=Black
}}</ref>
<ref name=BBC25Feb2010Published>{{cite news
|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/8535946.stm
|title=Scottish independence referendum plans published
|publisher=BBC News
|date=25 February 2010
|accessdate=25 February 2010
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5no5PTJqS
|archivedate=25 February 2010
}}</ref>
<ref name=ScottishGovernmentNews25Feb2010ReferendumConsultation>{{cite web
|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2010/02/24170252
|title=Referendum consultation
|publisher=Scottish Government
|work=www.scotland.gov.uk > News > News Releases > 2010 > February > referendum
|date=25 February 2010
|accessdate=25 February 2010
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5no62MiL0
|archivedate=25 February 2010
}}</ref>
<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010>{{cite web
|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/303348/0095138.pdf
|title=Scotland's Future: Draft Referendum (Scotland) Bill Consultation Paper
|publisher=Scottish Government
|work=www.scotland.gov.uk > Publications > 2010 > February > Scotland's Future: Draft Referendum (Scotland) Bil > PDF 1
|format=PDF
|date=25 February 2010
|accessdate=25 February 2010
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5no62m3yB
|archivedate=25 February 2010
}}</ref>
<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultation25Feb2010>{{cite web
|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Government/Elections/rbc/
|title=Draft Referendum (Scotland) Bill Consultation
|publisher=Scottish Government
|work=www.scotland.gov.uk > Topics > Public Sector > Elections > Referendum Bill Consultation
|date=n.d.|accessdate=25 February 2010
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5no63ChPc
|archivedate=25 February 2010
}}</ref>
}}
==External links==
{{wikinews|Scotland sets date for referendum}}
* [http://www.scotreferendum.com/ Scottish Government Referendum 2014 site]
* [https://www.youdecide2014.uk/ UK Government Referendum 2014 site]
* [http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/Bills/61076.aspx Scottish Independence Referendum Bill] from the Scottish Parliament
* [http://cle.ens-lyon.fr/anglais/scotland-s-hour-of-choice-237813.kjsp?RH=CDL_ANG000000 Scotland’s Hour of Choice] an article by Alistair Cole
* {{UK-LEG|title=Scottish Independence Referendum Act 2013}}
* [http://www.scotlanddecides.com Scotland Decides] on [[stv.tv]]
* [http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-18364699 BBC Q&A]
* [http://www.yesscotland.net/ Yes Scotland, official campaign for a Yes vote]
* [http://bettertogether.net/ Better Together, official campaign for a No vote]
* [http://www.futureukandscotland.ac.uk/guidetothedebate/ ESRC Debate Guide]
* [http://www.better-together-scotland.com/ List of registered campaigners in the Scottish Independence Referendum]
{{Scottish independence referendum, 2014}}
{{Scottish elections}}
[[Category:2014 elections in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:2014 in Scotland]]
[[Category:2014 referendums]]
[[Category:Future referendums]]
[[Category:Home rule in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Independence referendums]]
[[Category:Proposed laws of Scotland|Independence referendum]]
[[Category:Referendums in Scotland|Independence referendum]]
[[Category:Scottish independence movement|Referendum]]
[[Category:Scottish independence referendum, 2014| ]]' |
New page wikitext, after the edit (new_wikitext) | '{{current||current referendum campaign|date=September 2014}}
{{Use Scottish English|date=September 2013}}
{{Use dmy dates|date=September 2014}}
{{Infobox referendum
| name = Scottish Independence Referendum<br><small>Thursday, 18 September 2014</small>
| title = ''Should Scotland be an independent country?''
| yes =
| no =
| total =
| electorate = <nowiki>4.3 million (as of September 2014;</nowiki><br /><nowiki>aged 16+)</nowiki><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-29160535 |title=Scottish independence: More than 4.2 million voters register ahead of referendum |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=11 September 2014 |accessdate=11 September 2014}}</ref>
| !DO NOT REMOVE THIS MESSAGE AND ADD MAP UNTIL 18 SEPTEMBER<map = Scottish independence referendum 2014 results map.svg>
| mapdivision = [[Scottish Parliament constituencies and regions|Scottish Parliament constituencies]]
| notes =
}}
{{Politics of Scotland}}
A [[referendum]] on whether [[Scotland]] should [[Scottish independence|be an independent country]]<!-- no bolding per [[WP:BOLDTITLE]] --> will take place on Thursday, 18 September 2014.<ref name="BBC 2013-03-21">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-16478121|title=Scotland to hold independence poll in 2014 – Salmond |date=10 January 2012 |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref>
Following an agreement between the [[Scottish Government|Scottish]] and the [[Government of the United Kingdom|United Kingdom governments]],<ref name="number10.gov.uk">{{cite web|url=http://webarchive.nationalarchives.gov.uk/20130109092234/http://www.number10.gov.uk/wp-content/uploads/2012/10/Agreement-final-for-signing.pdf|format=PDF|title=Agreement between the United Kingdom Government and the Scottish Government on a referendum on independence for Scotland|date=15 October 2012|accessdate=May 2013}}</ref> the [[Scottish independence]] Referendum Bill, setting out the arrangements for this referendum, was put forward on 21 March 2013,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2012/05/referendum-consultation11052012 |title=Response to referendum consultation |publisher=Scotland.gov.uk |date= |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> passed by the [[Scottish Parliament]] on 14 November 2013 and received [[Royal Assent]] on 17 December 2013.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/Bills/61076.aspx |title=Scottish Independence Referendum Bill |publisher=Scottish.parliament.uk |date= |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref><ref>{{UK-LEG|title=Scottish Independence Referendum Act 2013}}</ref>
The referendum question, as recommended by the [[Electoral Commission (United Kingdom)|Electoral Commission]], will be "Should Scotland be an independent country?" – voters can answer only Yes or No.<ref name="scotgovaccentsecreport">{{cite web|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2013/01/electoral-commission-report30012013|title=Government accepts all Electoral Commission recommendations|publisher=|accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref> With some exceptions, all residents in Scotland aged 16 or over can vote, a total of over 4 million people. To pass, the independence proposal requires a [[Majority|simple majority]].
[[Yes Scotland]] is the main campaign group for independence, while [[Better Together (campaign)|Better Together]] is the main campaign group to maintain the union. Many [[Endorsements in the Scottish independence referendum, 2014|other campaign groups, political parties, businesses, newspapers and prominent individuals]] have also been involved. Prominent issues raised during the campaign include which currency an independent Scotland would use, [[public expenditure]] and [[North Sea oil]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2014/sep/06/scottish-independence-everything-you-need-to-know-referendum|title=Scottish independence: a guide to the big decision – Politics – The Observer|work=the Guardian|accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref>
{{TOC limit}}
==History==
===Formation of Scotland and the United Kingdom===
Scotland, as it is known today, was formed by territorial evolution during the [[Middle Ages]]. The [[Kingdom of Scotland]] fought a series of [[wars of Scottish independence|wars of independence]] against the [[Kingdom of England]] during the 14th century. The two monarchies were in [[personal union]] from 1603 (the [[Union of the Crowns]]) when [[James VI of Scotland]] also became James I of England. The two nations were united under one government when [[Oliver Cromwell]] was declared [[Lord Protector]] of a [[Commonwealth of England|Commonwealth]] in 1653, but it was dissolved when the monarchy was [[restoration (England)|restored]] in 1660. The Kingdoms of Scotland and England united to form the [[Kingdom of Great Britain]] in [[Acts of Union 1707|1707]]. Great Britain in turn [[Acts of Union 1800|united]] with the [[Kingdom of Ireland]] in 1801 to form the United Kingdom. Most of Ireland left the Union in 1922, later forming the [[Republic of Ireland]]; thus the full name of the sovereign state today is the ''United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland''.
===Devolution===
The [[Labour Party (UK)|Labour Party]] was committed to home rule for Scotland in the 1920s, but it slipped down its agenda in the following years.<ref name = "devo hist">{{cite web |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/events/scotland_99/the_scottish_parliament/306850.stm |title=Devolution's swings and roundabouts |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=7 April 1999 |accessdate=28 August 2014}}</ref> The [[Scottish National Party]] (SNP) was formed in 1934, but did not achieve significant electoral success until the 1960s.<ref name = "devo hist"/> A document calling for home rule, the [[Scottish Covenant]], was signed by 2 million people (out of a population of 5 million) in the late 1940s.<ref name = "devo hist"/> Home rule, now known as [[Scottish devolution]], did not become a serious proposal until the late 1970s as the Labour government of [[Jim Callaghan]] came under electoral pressure from the SNP.<ref name = "devo hist"/>
A proposal for a devolved [[Scottish Assembly]] was put to a [[Scottish devolution referendum, 1979|referendum in 1979]], but this resulted in no change.<ref name = "1979 referendum"/> A narrow majority of votes were cast in favour of change, but the legislation was repealed due to a clause requiring that the number voting 'Yes' had to exceed 40% of the total electorate.<ref name = "1979 referendum">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/special/politics97/devolution/scotland/briefing/79referendums.shtml|title=The 1979 Referendums|work=[[BBC News]]|publisher=BBC|date=|accessdate=16 January 2012}}</ref> No further constitutional reform was proposed until Labour returned to power in 1997, when a [[Scottish devolution referendum, 1997|second Scottish devolution referendum]] was held.<ref name = "1997 referendum"/> Clear majorities expressed support for both a [[Devolution|devolved]] [[Scottish Parliament]] and that Parliament having the power to vary the basic rate of income tax.<ref name = "1997 referendum">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/special/politics97/devolution/scotland/live/index.shtml|title=Scottish Referendum Live – The Results|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=|accessdate=16 January 2012}}</ref> The [[Scotland Act 1998]] established the new Scottish Parliament, [[Scottish Parliament general election, 1999|first elected]] on 6 May 1999,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/business/officialReports/meetingsParliament/or-99/or010104.htm#Col7 |title=Scottish Parliament Official Report – 12 May 1999 |publisher=Scottish Parliament}}</ref> with power to legislate on [[Reserved matter|unreserved matters]] within Scotland.
===2007 SNP administration===
{{Further|Government of the 3rd Scottish Parliament}}
[[File:A National Conversation launch.jpg|right|thumb|The Scottish First Minister, [[Alex Salmond]], and the Deputy First Minister, [[Nicola Sturgeon]], at the launch of the [[National Conversation]], 14 August 2007]]
[[File:Scotland Parliament Holyrood.jpg|thumb|right|Debating chamber of the Scottish Parliament]]
A commitment to hold a referendum in 2010 was part of the SNP's [[election manifesto]] when it contested the [[Scottish Parliament election, 2007|2007 Scottish Parliament election]].<ref name=Manifesto12Apr2007/> As a result of that election, it became the largest party in the Scottish Parliament and formed a [[minority government]] led by the First Minister, [[Alex Salmond]].<ref name = "timeline">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-19907675 |title=Timeline: Scottish independence referendum |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=15 October 2012 |accessdate=15 October 2012}}</ref>
The SNP administration launched a '[[National Conversation]]' as a consultation exercise in August 2007, part of which included a draft referendum bill, the ''Referendum (Scotland) Bill''.<ref name = "timeline"/><ref name=DraftBill2007/> After this, a [[white paper]] for the proposed Referendum Bill was published, on 30 November 2009.<ref name=Independent30Nov09SNPReveals/><ref name=ScottishGovernment30Nov09NewsYSYV/> It detailed 4 possible scenarios, with the text of the Bill and Referendum to be revealed later.<ref name=Independent30Nov09SNPReveals/> The scenarios were: no change; devolution per the [[Commission on Scottish Devolution|Calman Review]]; further devolution; and full independence.<ref name=Independent30Nov09SNPReveals/> The Scottish government published a draft version of the bill on 25 February 2010 for public consultation;<ref name=BBC25Feb2010Published/><ref name=ScottishGovernmentNews25Feb2010ReferendumConsultation/> ''Scotland's Future: Draft Referendum (Scotland) Bill Consultation Paper'' contained a consultation document and a draft version of the bill.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/> The consultation paper set out the proposed ballot papers, the mechanics of the proposed referendum, and how the proposed referendum was to be regulated.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/> Public responses were invited.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultation25Feb2010/>
The bill outlined three proposals: the first was full devolution or 'devolution max', suggesting that the Scottish Parliament should be responsible for "all laws, taxes and duties in Scotland", with the exception of "defence and foreign affairs; financial regulation, monetary policy and the currency", which would be retained by the British government.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/> The 2nd proposal outlined Calman-type fiscal reform, gaining the additional powers and responsibilities of setting a Scottish rate of income tax that could vary by up to 10p in the [[Pound sterling|pound]] compared with the rest of the UK, setting the rate of [[Stamp duty in the United Kingdom|stamp duty land tax]] and "other minor taxes", and introducing new taxes in Scotland with the agreement of the UK Parliament, and finally, "limited power to borrow money".<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/> The 3rd proposal was for full independence.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/>
In the [[Members of the 3rd Scottish Parliament|third Scottish Parliament]], only 50 of 129 MSPs (47 SNP, 2 [[Scottish Green Party|Greens]], and [[Margo MacDonald]]) supported a referendum.<ref name=BBCQnA3Sep09/><ref name=Times3Sep09/> The Scottish government withdrew the bill after failing to secure opposition support.<ref name = "timeline"/><ref>{{cite news| url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-11196967 | work=BBC News |publisher=BBC| title=Scottish independence plan 'an election issue' | date=6 September 2010|accessdate=17 January 2012}}</ref>
===2011 SNP administration===
{{Further|Government of the 4th Scottish Parliament}}
The SNP repeated its commitment to hold a referendum when it published its [[Scottish parliamentary election, 2011|2011 Scottish parliamentary election]] manifesto.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.stv.tv/scotland/243521-snp-launch-manifesto-with-50m-fund-for-young-scots/|title=SNP launch 'Re-elect' manifesto with independence referendum vow|first=Gavin|last=Stuart|work=STV|publisher=STV Group|date=14 April 2011|accessdate=17 January 2012}}</ref> Days before the election, Salmond stated that legislation for a referendum would be proposed in the "2nd half of the parliament", as he wanted to secure more powers for the Scottish Parliament via the [[Scotland Bill 2011|Scotland Bill]] first.<ref name = "tv debate">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-13255731|title=Scottish election: Party leaders clash in BBC TV debate|first=Andrew|last=Black|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=1 May 2011|accessdate=17 January 2012}}</ref> The SNP gained an overall [[majority]] in the election, winning 69 from 129 seats, thereby gaining a mandate to hold an independence referendum.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-13305522|title=Scottish election: SNP wins election|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=6 May 2011|accessdate=17 January 2012}}</ref><ref name = "contrary"/>
In January 2012, the UK government offered to legislate to provide the Scottish Parliament with the powers to hold a referendum, providing it was "fair, legal and decisive".<ref name = "contrary"/> This would set "terms of reference for the referendum", such as its question(s), elector eligibility and which body would organise the vote.<ref name = "chaos">{{cite news|url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/politics/independence-referendum-scotland-facing-constitutional-chaos-1.49754|title=Independence referendum: Scotland facing constitutional chaos|work=The Courier|publisher=DC Thomson|first=David|last=Clegg|date=11 January 2012|accessdate=9 January 2014}}</ref> As the UK government worked on legal details, including the timing of the vote, Salmond announced an intention to hold the referendum in the autumn of 2014.<ref name = "chaos"/> Negotiations continued between the two governments until October 2012, when the [[Edinburgh Agreement (2012)|Edinburgh Agreement]] was reached.<ref name = "timeline"/>
The Scottish Independence Referendum (Franchise) Act 2013 was passed by the Scottish Parliament on 27 June 2013 and received Royal Assent on 7 August 2013.<ref>{{UK-LEG|title=Scottish Independence Referendum (Franchise) Act 2013}}</ref> On 15 November 2013, the Scottish government published ''[[Scotland's Future]]'', a 670-page [[white paper]] laying out the case for independence and the means through which Scotland might become an independent country.<ref name="SF Reaction">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25088251|title=Scottish independence: Referendum White Paper unveiled|date=26 November 2013|accessdate=5 January 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref>
==Administration==
===Date and eligibility===
The Scottish government announced on 21 March 2013 that the referendum would be held on 18 September 2014.<ref name="BBC 2013-03-21" /> Some media reports mentioned that 2014 would be the 700th anniversary of the [[Battle of Bannockburn]]<ref name = "guardian 10 jan 2012">{{cite news|author=Severin Carrell and Nicholas Watt |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/jan/10/scottish-independence-salmond-poll-date |title=Scottish independence: Alex Salmond sets poll date – and defies London | Politics |publisher=The Guardian |date= 10 January 2012|accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref><ref name="heraldscotland1">{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/bannockburn-date-mooted-for-referendum.16330813 |title=Bannockburn date mooted for referendum |publisher=Herald Scotland |date=2 January 2012 |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> and that Scotland would also host the [[2014 Commonwealth Games]] and the [[2014 Ryder Cup]].<ref name="heraldscotland1"/> Salmond agreed that the presence of these events made 2014 a "good year to hold a referendum".<ref name="econ">{{cite news|url=http://www.economist.com/node/21542806 |title=Scotland's referendum: If at first you don't succeed |publisher=The Economist |date= 14 January 2012|accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref>
Under the terms of the 2010 Draft Bill, the following people would be entitled to vote in the referendum:<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/>
* [[British citizen]]s who are resident in Scotland;
* [[Commonwealth citizen|citizen]]s of the 52 other [[Commonwealth of Nations|Commonwealth]] countries who are resident in Scotland;
* citizens of the 27 other European Union countries who are resident in Scotland;
* members of the [[House of Lords]] who are resident in Scotland;
* Service/Crown personnel serving in the UK or overseas in the [[British Armed Forces]] or with Her Majesty's Government who are registered to vote in Scotland.
Convicted prisoners may not vote in the referendum. The [[European Court of Human Rights]] earlier ruled that this restriction was unlawful, but Lord Glennie said that he believed the ECHR judgment would apply only to parliamentary elections.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-25446924 |title=Scottish independence: Killers lose referendum vote bid |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=19 December 2013 |accessdate=2 July 2014}}</ref> Appeals against his ruling were rejected by the Court of Session in Edinburgh<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28128599 |title=Scottish independence: Killers fail to win referendum vote |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=2 July 2014 |accessdate=2 July 2014}}</ref> and the [[UK Supreme Court]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-28442439 |title=Scottish independence: Killers fail to get referendum vote |first=Reevel |last=Alderson |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=24 July 2014 |accessdate=25 July 2014}}</ref>
The Scottish government passed legislation to reduce the [[voting age]] for the referendum from 18 to 16, as it is SNP policy to reduce the voting age for all elections in Scotland.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/><ref name = "viewpoint">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-19908031 |title=Viewpoints: Can 16- and-17-year olds be trusted with the vote? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=14 October 2012 |accessdate=14 October 2012}}</ref><ref name="Macdonnell">{{cite news|url=http://www.thetimes.co.uk/tto/news/uk/scotland/article3167034.ece|title=16-year-olds likely to get the vote on Union split|last=Macdonnell|first=Hamish|date=17 September 2011|work=The Times Scotland|publisher=Times Newspapers Limited|accessdate=18 September 2011|location=London}}</ref> The move was supported by Labour, the Liberal Democrats, and the Scottish Greens.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-21741448|title=Scottish independence: Bill to lower voting age lodged|date=12 March 2013|accessdate=31 December 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-23074572|title=Scottish independence: Referendum voting age bill approved by MSPs|date=27 June 2013|accessdate=31 December 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref>
In January 2012, [[Elaine Murray]] MSP of Labour led a debate arguing that the franchise should be extended to Scots living outside Scotland, including the approximately 800,000 living in the other parts of the UK.<ref name = "extended vote"/> This was opposed by the Scottish government, which argued that it would greatly increase the complexity of the referendum and stated that there was evidence from the [[United Nations Human Rights Committee]] that other nations "might question the legitimacy of a referendum if the franchise is not territorial".<ref name = "extended vote">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-16607480|title=Scottish independence: SNP dismisses ex-pat voting call|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=18 January 2012|accessdate=19 January 2012}}</ref>
In the House of Lords, [[Elizabeth Symons, Baroness Symons of Vernham Dean|Baroness Symons]] argued that the rest of the UK should be allowed to vote on Scottish independence, on the grounds that it would affect the whole country. This argument was rejected by the British government, as the [[Advocate General for Scotland]] [[Jim Wallace, Baron Wallace of Tankerness|Lord Wallace]] said that "whether or not Scotland should leave the United Kingdom is a matter for Scotland".<ref name = "extended vote"/> Wallace also pointed to the fact that only two of 11 referenda since 1973 had been across all of the United Kingdom.<ref name = "extended vote"/> Professor John Curtice has also argued that the [[Northern Ireland sovereignty referendum, 1973|Northern Ireland sovereignty referendum of 1973]] created a precedent for allowing only those resident in one part of the UK to vote on its sovereignty.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-northern-ireland-19962267|title=Ulster Scots and Scottish independence|date=16 October 2012|accessdate=31 December 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref>
===Legality===
There was debate as to whether the Scottish Parliament had the power to legislate for a referendum relating to the issue of Scottish independence, as the constitution is a reserved matter for the [[parliament of the United Kingdom|UK Parliament]].<ref name=BBCQnA3Sep09/> The Scottish government insisted in 2010 that they could legislate for a referendum, as it would be an "advisory [[referendum]] on extending the powers of the Scottish Parliament",<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultation25Feb2010/> whose result would "have no legal effect on the Union".<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/>{{rp|17}} Lord Wallace, Advocate General for Scotland, said in January 2012 that the holding of any referendum concerning the constitution would be outside the legislative power of the Scottish Parliament<ref name = "contrary">{{cite news|url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/politics/advocate-general-says-snp-s-referendum-plans-would-be-contrary-to-the-rule-of-law-1.49938|title=Advocate General says SNP's referendum plans would be 'contrary to the rule of law'|work=The Courier|publisher=DC Thomson|first=David|last=Clegg|date=17 January 2012|accessdate=9 January 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|first=Andrew|last=Whitaker|url=http://www.scotsman.com/the-scotsman/politics/scottish_independence_referendum_publish_legal_advice_or_be_damned_snp_warned_over_referendum_1_2061982 |title=Scottish independence referendum: Publish legal advice or be damned, SNP warned over referendum|work=[[The Scotsman]]|date=18 January 2012|accessdate=19 January 2012|publisher=Johnston Press}}</ref> and that private individuals could challenge a Scottish Parliament referendum bill.<ref name = "wallace">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-16638746|title=Scottish independence: Referendum vote 'needs approval'|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=20 January 2012|accessdate=21 January 2012}}</ref>
The two governments signed the [[Edinburgh Agreement (2012)|Edinburgh Agreement]], which allowed for the temporary transfer of legal authority. In accordance with the Edinburgh Agreement, the UK government drafted an [[Order in Council]] granting the Scottish Parliament the necessary powers to hold, on or before 31 December 2014, an independence referendum. The draft Order was approved by resolutions of both Houses of Parliament, and the Order, titled ''The Scotland Act 1998 (Modification of Schedule 5) Order 2013'' was approved by The Queen, following the advice of Her Ministers, at a meeting of the [[Privy Council of the United Kingdom|Privy Council]] on 12 February 2013.<ref>http://www.legislation.gov.uk/uksi/2013/242/pdfs/uksi_20130242_en.pdf</ref> Under the powers temporarily transferred from Westminster under the section 30 Order, the Scottish Parliament adopted the ''Scottish Independence Referendum Act 2013'',<ref>http://www.legislation.gov.uk/asp/2013/14/pdfs/asp_20130014_en.pdf</ref> summoning the referendum, defining the question to be asked ("Should Scotland be an independent country?") and the date on which the referendum is to be held (18 September 2014) and establishing the rules governing the holding of the referendum. The Bill for the said Act was passed by the Scottish Parliament on 14 November 2013 and received [[Royal Assent]] on 17 December 2013. Under section 36 of the Act, it came into force on 18 December 2013, the day after Royal Assent.
===Oversight===
The [[Electoral Commission (United Kingdom)|Electoral Commission]] is responsible for overseeing the referendum, "with the exception of the conduct of the poll and announcement of the result, and the giving of grants. In its role of regulating the campaign and campaign spending, the Electoral Commission will report to the Scottish Parliament. ... The poll and count will be managed in the same way as [... local] elections, by local returning officers ... and directed by a Chief Counting Officer."<ref name="number10.gov.uk"/>
===Question===
The Edinburgh Agreement stated that the wording of the question would be decided by the Scottish Parliament and reviewed by the Electoral Commission for intelligibility.<ref name="number10.gov.uk"/> The Scottish government stated that its preferred question was "Do you agree that Scotland should be an independent country?" <ref name = "new question"/> The Electoral Commission tested the proposed question along with three other possible versions.<ref name = "tests"/> Their research found that the "Do you agree" preface meant that it was a [[leading question]], which would be more likely to garner a positive response.<ref name = "new question"/> The question was amended to "Should Scotland be an independent country?", which the Electoral Commission found was the most neutral and concise of the versions tested.<ref name = "new question">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-21245701 |title=Scottish independence: SNP accepts call to change referendum question |first=Andrew |last=Black |work=BBC Sport |publisher=BBC |date=30 January 2013 |accessdate=30 January 2013}}</ref><ref name = "tests">http://www.electoralcommission.org.uk/__data/assets/pdf_file/0005/153689/Ipsos-MORI-Scotland-question-testing-report-24-January-2013.pdf</ref>
The clarity and brevity of the question used in Scotland has been contrasted with the longer formulations used in the sovereignty referenda held in [[Quebec]] in [[Quebec sovereignty referendum, 1980|1980]] and [[Quebec sovereignty referendum, 1995|1995]].<ref name = "new question"/><ref name = "quebec question">{{cite news |url=http://opencanada.org/features/blogs/roundtable/obstacles-to-independence-in-quebec/#.U0MTagb3r9s.twitter |title=Obstacles to Independence in Quebec |first=Kyle |last=Matthews |work=www.opencanada.org |publisher= |date=1 April 2014 |accessdate=8 April 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://fullcomment.nationalpost.com/2014/03/24/jonathan-kay-scotland-shows-quebec-what-an-intelligent-and-mature-separatist-movement-looks-like/ |title=Jonathan Kay: Scotland shows Quebec what an intelligent and mature independence movement looks like |first=Jonathan |last=Kay |work=National Post |publisher=Post Media |date=24 March 2014 |accessdate=26 June 2014}}</ref>
===Campaign===
====Campaign organisations====
The campaign in favour of Scottish independence, [[Yes Scotland]], was launched on 25 May 2012.<ref name = "yes scotland">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-18162832|title=Scottish independence: One million Scots urged to sign 'yes' declaration |work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=25 May 2012|accessdate=18 July 2012}}</ref> Its chief executive is [[Blair Jenkins]],<ref name = "yes scotland"/> formerly the Director of Broadcasting at [[Scottish Television|STV]] and Head of News and Current Affairs at both STV and [[BBC Scotland]]. The campaign is supported by the SNP,<ref name = "yes scotland"/> the Scottish Green Party (which also created "its own pro-independence campaign to run alongside Yes Scotland"<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-19858857 |title=Scottish independence: Greens join Yes Scotland campaign |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=6 October 2012 |accessdate=7 October 2012}}</ref>) and the [[Scottish Socialist Party]]. At its launch, Salmond stated that he hoped one million people in Scotland would sign a declaration of support for independence.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-20539259|title=Scottish independence: Yes Scotland signs up 143,000 supporters |date=30 November 2012|accessdate=31 July 2013|work=BBC News |publisher=BBC}}</ref> On 22 August 2014, Yes Scotland announced that the one million target had been surpassed.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-28894313 |title=Scottish independence: Yes declaration hits million target |date=22 August 2014 |accessdate=22 August 2014 |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC}}</ref>
The campaign in favour of Scotland remaining in the UK, [[Better Together (campaign)|Better Together]], was launched on 25 June 2012.<ref name = "better together">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-18572750|title=Scottish independence: Alistair Darling warns of 'no way back'|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=25 June 2012|accessdate=18 July 2012}}</ref> It is led by [[Alistair Darling]], former [[Chancellor of the Exchequer]], and has support from the Conservative Party, Labour Party and Liberal Democrats.<ref name = "better together"/>
====Campaign funding and costs====
In the 2010 Draft Bill, the Scottish government proposed that there would be a designated organisation campaigning for a 'Yes' vote and a designated organisation campaigning for a 'No' vote, both of which would be permitted to spend up to £750,000 on their campaign and to send one free [[mailshot]] to every household or voter in the referendum franchise. There was to be no public funding for campaigns. Political parties were each to be allowed to spend £100,000.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/> This proposed limit on party spending was revised to £250,000 in 2012.<ref name = "campaign cash battle">{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/scottish-independence-salmond-in-campaign-cash-battle-1-2573978 |first=Eddie |last=Barnes |title=Scottish independence: Salmond in campaign cash battle |work=Scotland on Sunday |publisher =Johnston Publishing |date=14 October 2012 |accessdate=14 October 2012}}</ref>
In 2013, new proposals by the Electoral Commission for the 16-week regulated period preceding the poll were accepted. They allow the two designated campaign organisations to spend up to £1.5 million each and for the parties in Scotland to spend the following amounts: £1,344,000 (SNP); £834,000 (Labour); £396,000 (Conservatives); £201,000 (Liberal Democrats); £150,000 (Greens).<ref name = "new question"/> An unlimited number of other organisations can register with the Electoral Commission, but their spending is limited to £150,000.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27228971 |title=Scottish independence: Questions raised over campaign spending rules |first=Lucy |last=Adams |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=1 May 2014 |accessdate=1 May 2014}}</ref>
According to the Scottish government's consultation paper published on 25 February 2010, the cost of the referendum was "likely to be around £9.5 million", mostly spent on running the poll and the count. Costs would also include the posting of one neutral information leaflet about the referendum to every Scottish household, and one free mailshot to every household or voter in the poll for the designated campaign organisations.<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010/> As of April 2013, the projected cost of the referendum was £13.3 million.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-22014286|title=Scottish independence: Referendum cost estimated at £13.3m |publisher=BBC |date=3 April 2013|accessdate=14 May 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref>
=====Donations=====
In December 2013 the Better Together campaign declared that it had received donations of £2.8 million.<ref name="money2">{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/10893567/JK-Rowling-subjected-to-Cybnernat-abuse-after-1m-pro-UK-donation.html|title=JK Rowling Subjected to Cybnernat Abuse After £1m Pro-UK Donation |publisher=The Daily Telegraph|date=11 June 2014|accessdate=11 June 2014}}</ref> Six-figure contributions were made by businessmen [[Ian Taylor (British businessman)|Ian Taylor]] and Donald Houston, and by author [[C. J. Sansom]]; almost 27,000 donations of under £7,500 had been received by the same date.<ref name="money1" /> A later donation came from writer [[J. K. Rowling]], who announced in June 2014 that she had given £1 million.<ref name="money2" /><ref name="money1">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27798020|title=Scottish Independence: Who Are the Big and Small Money Referendum Donors?|publisher=BBC |date=11 June 2014|accessdate=11 June 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref> In the following month, whisky distiller [[William Grant & Sons]] announced a donation of approximately £100,000.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28183123|title=Scottish Independence: Distiller William Grant and Sons Donates to Better Together|publisher=BBC |date=6 July 2014|accessdate=8 July 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref> On 12 August 2014 Better Together announced that it had raised enough money to cover the maximum spending permitted and was no longer accepting donations.<ref name="enough">{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/11029881/Better-Together-calls-for-no-more-donations-after-post-TV-debate-flood-of-cash.html|title=Better Together calls for no more donations after post-TV debate flood of cash|publisher=The Daily Telegraph|date=13 August 2014|accessdate=13 August 2014|work=}}</ref> This was attributed in part to a large number of small donations being received after the first televised debate between Salmond and Darling.<ref name="enough" />
As of May 2014, the Yes Scotland campaign had declared £4.5 million in cash donations.<ref name="money2" /><ref name="money1" /> [[EuroMillions]] lottery-winners Chris and Colin Weir gave £3.5 million.<ref name="money2" /> A six-figure donation was given by investment fund manager Angus Tulloch; approximately 18,000 donations of less than £7,500 had been made by the same date.<ref name="money1" />
====Advertising====
Political advertising on television and radio in the UK is prohibited by the [[Communications Act 2003]], with the exception of permitted [[party political broadcast]]s.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-22238582 |title=European Court upholds UK political advert ban |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=22 April 2013 |accessdate=30 May 2014}}</ref> Three major cinema chains stopped showing adverts by referendum campaign groups after receiving negative feedback from their customers.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27602601 |title=Scottish independence: Cinemas pull referendum adverts |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=28 May 2014 |accessdate=30 May 2014}}</ref>
===Voting process===
Voting for the referendum commenced on 27 August 2014, with the receipt of ballots by postal voters. As of 15 August, 680,235 eligible voters had registered for postal voting, a 20% increase compared to March 2014.<ref name = "postal">{{Cite news|url = http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28741264|work= BBC News |publisher=BBC |title=Scottish Independence: The popular rise of postal voting|last = |first = |date = 26 August 2014|accessdate = 29 August 2014}}</ref> During the postal vote phase, Police Scotland arrested a 28-year-old man from Drumchapel, Glasgow, on suspicion of selling his vote on [[eBay]].<ref>{{Cite news|url = http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28996416|title = BBC News – Scottish independence: Man arrested after votes 'for sale' on eBay|last = |first = |date = 30 August 2014|work = BBC News |accessdate = 30 August 2014}}</ref>
The registration deadline for referendum voters was 2 September 2014.<ref name = "postal"/> Several councils reported the processing of "unprecedented" numbers of new registrations, while others received "tens of thousands" of applications in the final week—the BBC reported on 2 September: "Figures obtained by Scotland 2014 show in the past seven days Glasgow received more than 9,000 applications, Renfrewshire 5,000, and Shetland and Orkney almost 1,000."<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-29024311 |title=Scottish independence: Thousands in late rush to register to vote |first=Lucy |last=Adams |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=2 September 2014 |accessdate=2 September 2014}}</ref>
===Outcome===
The UK government has stated that if a simple majority of the votes cast are in favour of independence, then "Scotland would become an independent country after a process of negotiations".<ref name = "outcome">{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/topical-events/scottish-independence-referendum/about |title=Scottish independence referendum |work=www.gov.uk |publisher=UK Government |date= |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref><ref name = "agreement">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27906062 |title=Scottish independence: Post-referendum agreement reached |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=18 June 2014 |accessdate=18 June 2014}}</ref> If the majority is against independence, Scotland would continue within the United Kingdom.<ref name = "outcome"/><ref name = "agreement"/> Further powers would be devolved to the Scottish Parliament as a result of the [[Scotland Act 2012]].<ref name = "outcome"/><ref name = "agreement"/> The Electoral Commission prepared an information leaflet which confirmed that the UK and Scottish governments had reached agreement on these points.<ref name = "agreement"/>
==Issues==
===Agriculture===
In 2013, as part of a European Union (EU) member state, Scottish farmers received £583 million in subsidy payments from the EU under the [[Common Agricultural Policy]] (CAP).<ref name = "farmers views">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27201675 |title=Scottish independence: Farmers give their views on referendum debate |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=29 April 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014 |first=Laura |last=Bicker}}</ref> Annual CAP payments are made to the UK, which then determines how much to allocate to each of the devolved administrations, including Scotland.<ref name = "farmers impact">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27195830 |title=Scottish independence:How might a 'Yes' vote impact on farmers?|work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=29 April 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014 |first=Colletta |last=Smith}}</ref> In the last CAP agreement, farmers in the UK qualified for additional convergence payments because Scottish farmers receive a lower average single farm payment per hectare, mainly due to the mountainous terrain in Scotland.<ref name = "farmers impact"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.scotland.gov.uk/News/Scotland-s-CAP-budget-cut-5f7.aspx |title=Scotland's CAP budget cut |work= |publisher=Scottish Government |date=8 November 2013 |accessdate=4 June 2014}}</ref> Supporters of independence therefore believe that an independent Scotland would receive greater agricultural subsidies than at present.<ref name = "farmers impact"/> Opponents of independence believe that Scottish farmers benefit because the UK is one of the larger EU member states and therefore has a greater say in CAP negotiations.<ref name = "farmers impact"/> They also question whether an independent Scotland would immediately receive full subsidy payments from the EU, as other states which have recently joined have had their subsidies phased in.<ref name = "farmers impact"/>
===Border controls and immigration===
The UK has some [[Opt-outs in the European Union|opt-outs from EU policies]]. One is the opt-out from the [[Schengen Area]], meaning there are full passport checks for travellers from other EU countries except Ireland, which is part of the [[Common Travel Area]] (CTA) with the UK. The Scottish government proposes that an independent Scotland should remain outside the Schengen Area and join the CTA,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2013/11/5894/16|title=Annex 7: Schengen and the Common Travel Area|accessdate=4 June 2014}}</ref><ref name = "guardian border"/> ensuring that no passport controls would be needed at the [[Anglo-Scottish border]]. Nicola Sturgeon commented that an independent Scotland would negotiate with the EU to have the same visa arrangements as the UK has.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmselect/cmfaff/uc643-iv/uc643.pdf|title=The Foreign Policy Implications of and for an Independent Scotland|date=28 January 2013|accessdate=4 June 2014}}</ref> In May 2014, Labour MEP David Martin told the ''[[Sunday Herald]]'' that he believed the EU was "not going to force Scotland to join Schengen".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/labour-mep-independence-no-barrier-to-eu-membership.24250593|title=Labour MEP: 'independence no barrier to EU membership'|date=18 May 2014|accessdate=4 June 2014|publisher= |work=Sunday Herald}}</ref>
[[Alistair Carmichael]], the Secretary of State for Scotland, said in January 2014 that it would make sense for Scotland to be in the CTA, but it would have to operate similar immigration policies to the rest of the UK.<ref name = "guardian border"/> This position was supported by Home Secretary [[Theresa May]], who said in March 2014 that passport checks should be introduced if Scotland adopted a looser immigration policy.<ref name = "guardian border">{{cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2014/mar/14/passport-checks-needed-between-independent-scotland-and-england |title=Theresa May would seek passport checks between Scotland and England |first=Severin |last=Carrell |work=The Guardian |publisher= |date=14 March 2014 |accessdate=1 May 2014}}</ref> [[Richard Bacon (politician)|Richard Bacon]], Conservative MP for [[South Norfolk (UK Parliament constituency)|South Norfolk]], said there would be "no reason" for border controls to be implemented.<ref>{{cite video|url=https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=etwumT54Vik|title=Tory MP rubbishes border claims|date=4 November 2013|accessdate=21 August 2014}}</ref>
===Childcare===
In the white paper ''Scotland's Future'', the Scottish government pledged to expand childcare provision in an independent Scotland.<ref name = "childcare">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25114249 |title=Scottish independence: Alex Salmond outlines childcare 'savings' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=27 November 2013 |accessdate=3 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-26587040 |title=Scottish independence: Could Scotland afford better childcare? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=25 March 2014 |accessdate=3 May 2014}}</ref> The paper states that this policy would cost £700 million, but that this would be financed by increased tax revenue from an additional 100,000 women returning to work.<ref name = "childcare"/>
Scottish Labour leader [[Johann Lamont]] said that the policy should be implemented immediately if the Scottish government believed it would have a beneficial effect,<ref name = "childcare"/> but Salmond responded that under devolution the costs of the policy would have to be financed by cuts elsewhere in public expenditure.<ref name = "childcare"/> In March 2014, the National Day Nurseries Association said that the plan could not be implemented unless greater funding was provided by local authorities to private nurseries.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-26033775 |title=Scottish independence: Childcare plan 'unworkable' without more funds |first=Marianne |last=Taylor |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=25 March 2014 |accessdate=3 May 2014}}</ref> A report by the Scottish Parliament Information Centre questioned the economic benefit of the policy, pointing out that there were only 64,000 mothers of children aged between 1 and 5 who were economically inactive.<ref name = "inactive">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26877767 |title=Scottish independence: Scottish government childcare plan questioned |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=3 April 2014 |accessdate=3 May 2014}}</ref> A spokesman for Salmond said that the estimated total 104,000 women would enter the workforce over a longer period, as future generations of mothers would also be able to work, stating: "The key point about the policy is that it doesn't happen on one day or one year and then cease."<ref name = "inactive"/>
===Citizenship===
The Scottish government proposes that all Scottish-born British citizens would automatically become Scottish citizens on the date of independence, regardless of whether or not they were then living in Scotland. British citizens "habitually resident" in Scotland would also be considered Scottish citizens, [[Multiple citizenship|even if they already held the citizenship of another country]]. Every person who would automatically be considered a Scottish citizen would be able to opt out of Scottish citizenship provided they already held the citizenship of another country.<ref name="citizens">{{cite web|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/scotland-citizenship-passport-plans-outlined-1-3209022|title=Scotland citizenship, passport plans outlined|date=26 November 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013 |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing}}</ref> The Scottish government also proposes that anyone with a Scottish parent or grandparent will be able to apply for registration as a Scottish citizen, and any foreign national living in Scotland legally, or who has lived in Scotland for at least 10 years at any time and has an ongoing connection to Scotland, shall be able to apply for naturalisation as a Scottish citizen.<ref name="citizens"/> The UK Home Secretary, Theresa May, said future policies of an independent Scottish government would affect whether Scottish citizens would be allowed to retain British citizenship.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/key-questions-on-independence-white-paper-answered-1-3209904|title=Key questions on independence white paper answered|date=27 November 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013 |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing}}</ref> An analysis paper published by the UK government in January 2014 stated that it is likely that Scots would be able to hold dual citizenship.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/scots-to-stay-british-despite-vote.23257477 |title=Scots to stay British despite vote |first=Magnus |last=Gardham |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |date=24 January 2014 |accessdate=22 May 2014}}</ref>
===Defence===
====Budget====
The SNP have said that there was a defence underspend of "at least £7.4 billion" between 2002 and 2012 in Scotland and that independence would allow the Scottish government to correct this imbalance.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.snp.org/media-centre/news/2013/jan/uk-caught-red-handed-scotlands-underspend|title=UK caught "red-handed" on Scotland's underspend |work=www.snp.org |publisher=Scottish National Party |date=21 January 2013|accessdate=22 January 2014}}</ref> In its white paper, the Scottish government plans that an independent Scotland would have a total of 15,000 regular and 5,000 reserve personnel across land, air and maritime forces by 2026.<ref name = "white paper">{{cite web|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2013/11/9348/7|title=Scotland's Future |work= |publisher=Scottish Government |accessdate=31 March 2014 |date=November 2013}}</ref> In July 2013, the SNP proposed that there would be a £2.5 billion annual military budget in an independent Scotland.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/scottish-independence-snp-s-clyde-warships-plan-1-2985124|title=SNP's Clyde warships plan |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=3 July 2013|accessdate=3 July 2013}}</ref> The House of Commons Defence Select Committee said that the £2.5bn budget was too low.<ref name=Defence>{{cite news|last=Morris|first=Nigel|title=Alex Salmond's SNP plans for Scottish independence criticised for lacking crucial detail over defence plans|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/alex-salmonds-snp-plans-for-scottish-independence-criticised-for-lacking-crucial-detail-over-defence-plans-8842555.html|newspaper=The Independent|date=27 September 2013}}</ref> [[Andrew Murrison]], UK [[Minister for International Security Strategy]] agreed and said it was "risible" for the SNP to suggest it could create an independent force by "salami-slicing" from current British armed forces units.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/10445747/A-budget-of-2.5-billion-will-not-buy-Scottish-Defence-Force-wishlist-warns-defence-minister.html |title=A budget of £2.5 billion will not buy Scottish Defence Force wishlist, warns defence minister |work=Daily Telegraph |publisher=Telegraph Media Group |date=13 November 2013 |accessdate=15 April 2014 |first=Auslan |last=Cramb}}</ref>
The House of Commons defence committee also stated that Scottish independence would have a negative effect on its industry,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.leftfootforward.org/2013/09/snp-defence-plans-slammed/ |title=SNP defence plans slammed |publisher=Left Foot Forward |date=27 September 2013 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref> while the UK government said it would not be willing to build warships in a foreign country.<ref>{{cite news|author=Nigel Morris |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/shipyards-jobs-axe-an-independent-scotland-could-lose-key-royal-navy-contracts-8925338.html |title=Shipyards jobs axe: an Independent Scotland 'could lose key Royal Navy contracts' – UK Politics – UK |publisher=The Independent |date=6 November 2013 |accessdate=2014-08-26}}</ref> Geoff Searle, the director of BAE Systems' Type 26 Global Combat Ship programme, said in June 2014 that the company had no alternative plan for shipbuilding,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.janes.com/article/38732/bae-systems-continues-type-26-key-equipment-selections-recommends-single-site-build-plan |publisher=Janes |date=3 June 2014 |accessdate=5 September 2014 |title=BAE Systems continues Type 26 key equipment selections, recommends single-site build plan}}</ref> but this position was later revised by the Chairman of BAE, who stated that they could resume shipbuilding in the English city of [[Portsmouth]] if an independent Scotland was established.<ref>{{cite web|author= |url=http://www.portsmouth.co.uk/news/defence/shipbuilding-could-return-to-portsmouth-says-bae-systems-chairman-1-6166551 |title=Shipbuilding could return to Portsmouth, says BAE Systems chairman – Portsmouth News |publisher=Portsmouth.co.uk |date=8 July 2014 |accessdate=2014-08-26}}</ref>
The [[Royal United Services Institute]] said in 2012 that an independent Scotland could set up a Scottish Defence Force, comparable in size and strength to those of other small European states like Denmark, Norway and Ireland, at an annual cost of £1.8 billion.<ref name = "rusi"/> The authors acknowledged that an independent Scotland would "need to come to some arrangement with the rest of the UK" on intelligence-gathering, cyber-warfare and cyber-defence, that the future cost of purchasing and maintaining equipment of its forces might be higher due to smaller orders, and that recruitment and training "may prove problematic" in the early years.<ref name = "rusi">{{cite web |url=http://www.rusi.org/news/ref:N507BDE949F81D/#.UHv7bb9y9E4 |title=A' the Blue Bonnets: Defending an Independent Scotland |work=www.rusi.org |publisher=[[Royal United Services Institute]] |date=15 October 2012 |accessdate=15 October 2012}}</ref>
Dorcha Lee, a former colonel in the Irish Army, said that Scotland could eschew forming an army based on inherited resources from the British Army and instead follow an Irish model of a limited self-defence force.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/comment/columnists/irish-lesson-for-independent-scottish-forces.20785666|title=Irish lesson for independent Scottish forces |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |date=14 April 2013|accessdate=22 January 2014}}</ref>
====Nuclear weapons====
[[File:Trident boat.jpg|thumb|right|A [[Trident missile]]-armed [[Vanguard class submarine|''Vanguard'' class]] [[ballistic missile submarine]] leaving its base in the [[Firth of Clyde]].]]
The [[Trident nuclear missile system]] is based at [[Coulport]] weapons depot and naval base of [[Faslane]] in the [[Firth of Clyde]] area. While the SNP objects to having nuclear weapons on Scottish territory, British military leaders have said that there is no alternative site for the missiles;<ref>{{cite news|author=Richard Norton-Taylor |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/uk/2012/jan/29/trident-nuclear-deterrent-scotland-independence |title=Trident nuclear deterrent 'at risk' if Scotland votes for independence |publisher=The Guardian |date= 29 January 2012|accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newstatesman.com/blogs/the-staggers/2012/01/nuclear-scotland-submarines |title=What would Scottish independence mean for Trident? |publisher=New Statesman |date= |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> in April 2014, several British military leaders co-signed a letter stating that forcing Trident to leave Scottish waters would place the [[Nuclear weapons and the United Kingdom|UK nuclear deterrent]] in jeopardy.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/scottish-politics/10765229/Alex-Salmonds-Trident-plan-would-put-UK-nuclear-deterrent-in-jeopardy.html |title=Alex Salmond's Trident plan 'would put UK nuclear deterrent in jeopardy' |work=The Daily Telegraph |publisher=Telegraph Media Group |first=Ben |last=Riley-Smith |date=14 April 2014 |accessdate=}}</ref> ''Nowhere to Go'', a report by [[Scottish CND]], concludes that the removal of Trident from Scotland would force unilateral nuclear disarmament by the United Kingdom, as the weapons have no viable alternative base.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cnduk.org/information/briefings/trident-briefings/item/1324-trident-nowhere-to-go|title=Trident: Nowhere to Go|accessdate=4 June 2014}}</ref> A report by the Royal United Services Institute said that relocating Trident would be "very difficult, but not impossible" and estimated that it would take about 10 years and create an additional cost of around £3 billion.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28775848 |title=Scottish independence: Trident relocation 'very difficult but not impossible' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=14 August 2014 |accessdate=14 August 2014}}</ref>
A seminar hosted by the [[Carnegie Endowment for International Peace]] stated that the [[Royal Navy]] would have to consider a range of alternatives, including disarmament.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nti.org/gsn/article/scottish-independence-may-have-serious-repercussions-us-trident-missile-program/ |title=Scottish Independence May Impact U.S. Trident Missile Program | Global Security Newswire |publisher=NTI |date= |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> British MP [[Ian Davidson (Scottish politician)|Ian Davidson]] cited a UK report published by the [[Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament]] that suggested that the warheads could be deactivated within days and safely removed in 24 months.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.nti.rsvp1.com/gsn/article/q-british-mp-presses-scots-how-quickly-uk-nukes-may-be-banned/?mgh=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.nti.org&mgf=1|title="Q&A: British MP Presses Scots on How Quickly U.K. Nukes May be Banned"|work=NTI: Nuclear Threat Initiative|accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref> A report in 2013 from the [[Scotland Institute]] think tank suggested a future Scottish government could be convinced to lease the Faslane nuclear base to the rest of the UK to maintain good diplomatic relations and expedite [[NATO]] entry negotiations.<ref name=military>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/10139820/Independent-Scotland-faces-dilemma-between-Trident-and-Nato.html|title=Independent Scotland 'faces dilemma between Trident and Nato'|date=24 June 2013|accessdate=29 June 2013|work=The Daily Telegraph|first=Simon|last=Johnson}}</ref>
====NATO membership====
[[File:Location NATO 2009 blue.svg|thumb|Current map of [[NATO]], member states shown in dark blue]]
In 2012 the SNP dropped a long-standing policy of opposition in principle to NATO membership.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-19993694 |title=SNP members vote to ditch the party's anti-Nato policy |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=19 October 2012 |accessdate=19 October 2012}}</ref> MSPs [[John Finnie]] and [[Jean Urquhart]] resigned from the SNP over the policy change.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2012/oct/23/msps-resign-snp-nato-stance |title=Two MSPs resign from SNP over party's Nato stance |work=The Guardian |publisher= |date=23 October 2012|accessdate=17 December 2013}}</ref> The Scottish Green Party and Scottish Socialist Party remain opposed to continued membership of NATO.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/one-year-on-how-was-it-for-them.21173387|title=ONE YEAR ON: HOW WAS IT FOR THEM? |work=The Herald |publisher= |date=25 May 2013|accessdate=17 December 2013}}</ref>
The SNP position that Trident nuclear weapons should be removed from Scotland but that it should hold NATO membership has been criticised by [[Willie Rennie]], leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2013/aug/15/alex-salmond-nuclear-nato-ban|title=Alex Salmond told nuclear ban out of line with being in Nato|date=15 August 2013|accessdate=17 December 2013}}</ref> and [[Patrick Harvie]], co-convenor of the Scottish Green Party.<ref name="theguardian.com">{{cite web |url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/aug/15/alex-salmond-trident-nuclear-base|title=Alex Salmond accused of misleading voters over Trident base promises|date=15 August 2013|accessdate=17 December 2013}}</ref> Alex Salmond said it would be "perfectly feasible" to join NATO while maintaining an anti-nuclear stance and that Scotland would pursue NATO membership only "subject to an agreement that Scotland will not host nuclear weapons and NATO continues to respect the right of members to only take part in UN sanctioned operations".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-19993694|title=SNP members vote to ditch the party's anti-Nato policy |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=19 October 2012|accessdate=17 December 2013}}</ref> In 2013, Professor Malcolm Chalmers of the Royal United Services Institute stated that "pragmatists" in the SNP accepted that NATO membership would be likely to involve a long-term basing deal enabling the UK to keep Trident on the Clyde.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2013/aug/14/nato-blow-snp-nuclear-strategy |title=Nato chiefs deal blow to SNP's anti-nuclear strategy |work=The Guardian |publisher= |date=14 August 2013|accessdate=17 December 2013}}</ref>
The former [[Secretary General of NATO]] and Scottish Labour peer [[George Robertson, Baron Robertson of Port Ellen|Lord Robertson]] said in 2013 that "either the SNP accept the central nuclear role of NATO ... or they reject the nuclear role of NATO and ensure that a separate Scottish state stays out of the world's most successful defence alliance."<ref>{{cite news |last=Cramb|first=Auslan|title=An independent Scotland would have to 'support nuclear weapons' to gain access to Nato |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/scottish-politics/9985086/An-independent-Scotland-would-have-to-support-nuclear-weapons-to-gain-access-to-Nato.html|newspaper=Daily Telegraph|date=10 April 2013}}</ref> General [[Richard Shirreff]] criticised SNP proposals for defence and questioned whether other NATO members would accept an independent Scotland that rejected the principle of nuclear deterrence.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-29005808 |title=Scottish independence: Former Nato commander attacks SNP defence policy |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=31 August 2014 |accessdate=3 September 2014}}</ref> This was disputed by [[Mariot Leslie]], a former UK permanent representative to NATO, who stated that NATO would not want to disrupt its arrangements by excluding Scotland.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-29045528 |title=Scottish independence: Nato members 'would welcome' Scotland |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=3 September 2014 |accessdate=3 September 2014}}</ref>
====Intelligence====
A UK government paper on security stated that [[Police Scotland]] would lose access to the intelligence apparatus of the UK, including [[MI5]], [[Secret Intelligence Service|SIS]] and [[GCHQ]].<ref name = "experts"/> The paper also says that an independent Scottish state would need to build its own security infrastructure.<ref name = "experts"/> Theresa May has commented that an independent Scotland would have access to less security capability, but would not necessarily face a reduced threat.<ref name = "experts"/> In 2013, Allan Burnett, former head of intelligence with [[Strathclyde Police]] and Scotland's counter-terrorism co-ordinator until 2010, said that "an independent Scotland would face less of a threat, intelligence institutions will be readily created, and allies will remain allies". Peter Jackson, Canadian-born professor of security at the [[University of Glasgow]], agreed that [[Special Branch]] could form a "suitable nucleus" of a Scottish equivalent of MI5, and that Scotland could forego creating an equivalent of [[MI6]], instead "relying on pooled intelligence or diplomatic open sources" like Canada or the [[Nordic countries]].<ref name="spy">{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/spy-wars.21480718 |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |title=Spy wars |date=30 June 2013 |accessdate=30 June 2013}}</ref> [[Meta Ramsay, Baroness Ramsay of Cartvale|Baroness Ramsay]], a Labour peer and former Case Officer with MI6, said that the Scottish government's standpoint on intelligence was "extremely naïve" and that it was "not going to be as simple as they think".<ref name="spy" /> Nicola Sturgeon has stated that Scotland would create its own security service like MI5 to work alongside police and tackle terrorism, cyber attacks and serious organised crime.<ref name = "sturgeon embassies">{{cite web|author= |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/uk/sturgeon-100-embassies-for-independent-scotland-1-2763247 |title=Sturgeon: ‘100 embassies’ for independent Scotland |publisher=The Scotsman |date=30 January 2013 |accessdate=2014-08-26}}</ref> She also stated creating an external intelligence agency would remain an option.<ref name = "sturgeon embassies"/>
===Democracy===
The Scottish government and pro-independence campaigners have said that a [[democratic deficit]] exists in Scotland<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/alex-salmond-we-must-leave-uk-but-maintain-our-other-unions.1373639663|title=Alex Salmond: we must leave UK but maintain our other unions|date=12 July 2013|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yesscotland.net/news/peoples-constitution|title=The people's constitution|date=28 August 2013|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/billy-bragg-backs-scottish-independence-1-3300355|title=Billy Bragg backs Scottish independence |work=The Scotsman |publisher= |date=10 February 2014|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref> because the UK is a [[unitary state]] that does not have a codified constitution.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.itv.com/news/update/2013-11-26/salmond-independence-would-tackle-democratic-deficit/ |work=www.itv.com |publisher= |title=Salmond: Independence to tackle 'democratic deficit'|date=27 November 2013|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref> The SNP has also described the unelected [[House of Lords]] as an "affront to democracy".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/uk/house-of-lords-an-affront-to-democracy-says-snp-1-3029597|title=House of Lords an 'affront to democracy' says SNP|date=4 August 2013|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref> The "democratic deficit" label has sometimes been used to refer to the period between the 1979 and 1997 UK general elections, during which the Labour Party held a majority of Scottish seats but the Conservative Party governed the whole of the UK.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://bellacaledonia.org.uk/2013/02/13/the-democratic-deficit/|title=The Democratic Deficit|date=13 February 2013|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref> Alex Salmond said in September 2013 that instances such as this amount to a lack of democracy, and that "the people who live and work in Scotland are the people most likely to make the right choices for Scotland".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-24127510|title=Scottish independence: Holyrood debate marks one year to referendum|date=18 September 2013|accessdate=18 February 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.newstatesman.com/2014/02/alex-salmond-why-should-scotland-let-itself-be-ruled-tories|title=Alex Salmond: Why should Scotland let itself be ruled by the Tories?|date=26 February 2014|accessdate=27 February 2014}}</ref> In January 2012, Patrick Harvie said: "Greens have a vision of a more radical democracy in Scotland, with far greater levels of discussion and decision making at community level."<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.scottishgreens.org.uk/uncategorized/sgp-news-referendum-should-spark-an-era-of-radical-scottish-democracy/|title=Referendum should spark an era of radical Scottish democracy|date=25 January 2012|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref>
[[Menzies Campbell]] wrote in April 2014 that any democratic deficit has been addressed by creating the devolved [[Scottish Parliament]], and that "Scotland and the Scottish have enjoyed influence beyond our size or reasonable expectation" within the [[Government of the United Kingdom|British government]] and the wider political system.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/apr/07/independence-scotland-scots-powers-parliament-menzies-campbell |title=I will vote no to independence because I love Scotland |work=The Guardian |publisher= |first=Menzies |last=Campbell |date=7 April 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> Conservative MP [[Daniel Kawczynski]] said in 2009 that the [[asymmetric devolution]] in place in the UK has created a democratic deficit for England.<ref name = "Kawczynski">{{cite web |url=http://www.conservativehome.com/platform/2009/03/it-is-time-to-a.html |title=It is time to address the democratic deficit in England |work=www.conservativehome.com |publisher= |date=4 March 2009 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> This is more commonly known as the [[West Lothian question]], which cites the anomaly where English MPs cannot vote on affairs devolved to Scotland, but Scottish MPs can vote on the equivalent subjects in England. Kawczynski also pointed out that the average size of a parliamentary constituency is larger in England than in Scotland.<ref name = "Kawczynski"/>
====Further devolution====
During the campaign each of the three main UK parties conducted reviews into devolution, with each recommending that more powers should be devolved to the Scottish Parliament.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27656628 |title=Scottish independence: Tories back Scots income tax power |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=2 June 2014 |accessdate=11 August 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25626977 |title=Scottish independence: What are the 'No' parties offering instead of independence? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=2 June 2014 |accessdate=11 August 2014}}</ref> On the morning prior to a televised debate between Alex Salmond and Alistair Darling,<ref name="autogenerated2">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28238151 |title=Scottish independence: STV confirm Darling and Salmond TV debate date |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=9 July 2014 |accessdate=9 July 2014}}</ref> a joint statement was published by [[Better Together (campaign)|Better Together]]. Co-signed by the 3 main UK party leaders it stated a commitment to grant Scotland increased power over domestic taxes and parts of the social security system.<ref name="Sev">{{cite news|author1=Severin Carrell|title=Scotland promised extra tax and legal powers for referendum no vote|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2014/aug/05/scotland-promised-new-powers-no-vote-referendum?CMP=EMCNEWEML6619I2|accessdate=5 August 2014|work=The Guardian|date=5 August 2014}}</ref> [[Boris Johnson]], the Conservative [[mayor of London]], stated his opposition to giving the Scottish Parliament greater fiscal powers.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/boris-johnson-vows-to-resist-scots-tax-devolution-1-3505113 |title=Boris Johnson vows to resist Scots tax devolution |first=Andrew |last=Whitaker |date=11 August 2014 |accessdate=11 August 2014 |work=The Scotsman |publisher=}}</ref> During the second televised debate, Alex Salmond challenged Alistair Darling to specify which additional powers that could help create greater employment in Scotland would be granted if there was a "no" vote.<ref name = "soon">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28952197 |title=Scottish independence: Cameron promises more powers for Scotland 'soon' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=28 August 2014 |accessdate=28 August 2014}}</ref> During a visit to Scotland later that week, David Cameron promised more powers "soon".<ref name = "soon"/>
===Economy===
A principal issue in the referendum is the economy.<ref name = "ipad">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-19955302 |title=Scottish independence: Braveheart or iPad? |first=Douglas |last=Fraser |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=15 October 2012 |accessdate=19 October 2012}}</ref> The UK Treasury issued a report on 20 May 2013 which said that Scotland's banking systems would be too big to ensure depositor compensation in the event of a bank failure.<ref name = "treasury"/> The report indicated that Scottish banks would have assets worth 1,254% of GDP, which is more than Cyprus and Iceland before the last global financial crisis.<ref name = "treasury"/> It suggested Scottish taxpayers would each have £65,000 of potential liabilities during a hypothetical bailout in Scotland, versus £30,000 as part of the UK.<ref name = "treasury">{{cite news |url=http://www.bloomberg.com/news/2013-05-18/u-k-treasury-says-banks-too-big-to-save-in-independent-scotland.html|title=U.K. Treasury Says Independent Scotland Couldn't Aid Banks |work=www.bloomberg.com |publisher= |date=20 May 2013 |accessdate=23 May 2013}}</ref> Economists including Andrew Hughes Hallett, Professor of Economics at [[St Andrews University]], have rejected the idea that Scotland would have to underwrite these liabilities alone. He observed that banks operating in more than one country can be given a joint bailout by multiple governments.<ref name="banks">{{cite web|url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/83024e5e-42d0-11e1-b756-00144feab49a.html |title=Scotland has thought the options through and counted the cost |first1=Andrew |last1=Hughes Hallett |first2=Drew |last2=Scott |work=Financial Times |publisher= |date=24 January 2012 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> In this manner, Fortis Bank and the Dexia Bank were bailed out collectively by France, Belgium, and the Netherlands.<ref name="banks" /> The [[Federal Reserve System]] lent more than US$1 trillion to British banks, including $446 billion to the [[Royal Bank of Scotland]] (RBS), because they had operations in the United States.<ref name="banks" /><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.cfoworld.co.uk/news/change-management/3251623/rbs-no-longer-in-debt-to-us-federal-reserve/|title=RBS no longer in debt to US Federal Reserve |work=CFO World |publisher=IDG Inc |date=2 December 2010 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> [[Robert Peston]] reported in March 2014 that RBS and [[Lloyds Banking Group]] may be forced to relocate their head offices from Edinburgh to London in case of Scottish independence, due to a European law brought in after the 1991 collapse of the [[Bank of Credit and Commerce International]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-26455655 |title=EU law may force RBS and Lloyds to become English |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=5 March 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014 |first=Robert |last=Peston}}</ref>
[[Weir Group]], one of the largest private companies based in Scotland, commissioned a study by Oxford Economics into the potential economic effects of Scottish independence.<ref name = "weir">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-26864329 |title=Scottish independence: 'Yes' vote carries substantial risk, says Weir Group |first1=James |last1=Cook |first2=Andrew |last2=Black |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=3 April 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> It found that Weir would pay more corporation tax, despite the Scottish government's proposal to cut the rate of corporation tax, due to it no longer being able to offset losses in Scotland against profits in the rest of the UK.<ref name = "weir"/> It also stated that independence would result in additional costs and complexity in the operation of business pension schemes.<ref name = "weir"/> The report found that 70% of all Scottish exports are sold to the rest of the UK, which it said would particularly affect the financial services sector.<ref name = "weir"/> [[Standard Life]], one of the largest businesses in the Scottish financial sector, said in February 2014 that it had started registering companies in England in case it had to relocate some of its operations there.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-26362321 |title=Standard Life could quit Scotland |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=27 February 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014 |first=Robert |last=Peston}}</ref>
In February 2014, the ''[[Financial Times]]'' noted that Scotland's per capita GDP is bigger than that of France when a geographic share of oil and gas is taken into account, and still bigger than that of Italy when it is not.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/2/5b5ec2ca-8a67-11e3-ba54-00144feab7de.html|title=Independence debate: Yes, Scotland?|date=2 February 2014|accessdate=18 February 2014}}</ref> As of April 2014, Scotland had a similar rate of unemployment as the UK average (6.6%)<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-27793254 |title=Scottish unemployment total falls by 7,000|work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=11 June 2014|accessdate=11 June 2014}}</ref> and a lower fiscal deficit (including as a percentage of GDP)<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2013/05/4084/14|title=Scotland's Economy: the case for independence|date=May 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> than the rest of the UK. Scotland performed better than the UK average in securing new Foreign Direct Investment in 2012–13 (measured by the number of projects), although not as well as [[Wales]] or [[Northern Ireland]].<ref>{{cite news |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-23431486|title=Rise of 16% in Scottish inward investment projects |date=24 July 2013 |accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> GDP growth during 2013 was lower in Scotland than in the rest of the UK, although this was partly due to an industrial dispute at the [[Grangemouth Refinery]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-business-27048036 |title=Growth in Scottish economy slows |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=16 April 2014 |accessdate=17 April 2014}}</ref>
Leading digital marketer Simon Dalley outlined the potential benefits and pitfalls for Scotland's online business community, detailing how a change of nationality would likely have a detrimental impact on those Scottish online businesses who currently trade throughout the UK using Google.co.uk as their primary route to market whilst demonstrating the potential benefits for Scottish businesses that primarily trade within Scotland.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.growtraffic.co.uk/google-sco-scottish-independences-impact-on-online-businesses |title=Google.sco: Scottish Independence's Impact on Online Businesses |publisher=Grow Traffic }}</ref>
Supporters of independence have said that Scotland does not meet its full economic potential because it is subject to the same economic policy as the rest of the UK.<ref name="prosperity">{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/scottish-independence-will-improve-prosperity-1-3253393|title=Scottish independence 'will improve prosperity'|date=3 January 2014|accessdate=22 January 2014 |publisher= |work=The Scotsman}}</ref><ref name="devolutionists">{{cite web|url=http://thetarge.co.uk/article/current-affairs/0192/independence-boost-for-english-devolutionists|title=Independence 'boost' for English devolutionists|date=8 January 2014|accessdate=22 January 2014|publisher= |work= The Targe}}</ref> In 2013, the Jimmy Reid Foundation published a report stating that UK economic policy had become "overwhelmingly geared to helping London, meaning Scotland and other UK regions suffer from being denied the specific, local policies they need".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/london-calling-the-shots.21228380 |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |title=London calling (the shots)|date=1 June 2013|accessdate=22 January 2014}}</ref> Later in January 2014, Colin Fox said that Scotland is "penalised by an economic model biased towards the South East of England".<ref name="prosperity" /> In November 2013, [[Chic Brodie (politician)|Chic Brodie]] said that Scotland was "deprived" of economic benefit in the 1980s after the Ministry of Defence blocked oil exploration off the West of Scotland, ostensibly to avoid interference with the UK's nuclear weapons arsenal.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.sundaypost.com/news-views/scotland/west-coast-oil-boom-was-blocked-by-mod-1.151449 |work=Sunday Post |publisher=DC Thomson |first=Andrew |last=Picken |title=West coast oil boom was blocked by MoD|date=9 November 2013|accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref>
====Currency====
Another major economic issue is the currency that would be used by an independent Scotland.<ref name="issue"/> The principal options are to establish an independent Scottish currency, join the [[euro]], or retain the [[pound sterling]]<ref name="issue"/> (a form of [[currency substitution]]).<ref name="adamsm">{{cite web| url= http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28869991 | title= Scottish independence: Scotland should use pound, says Adam Smith Institute | date= 21 August 2014 | publisher= BBC News | accessdate= 2014-08-20| quote= [A] new report, written by the research director of the Adam Smith Institute, Sam Bowman, has argued that sterlingization – using the pound without the use of a central bank – would be 'a significant improvement on Scotland's current arrangements'.}}</ref>
Throughout the 1990s and early 2000s, the SNP's policy was that an independent Scotland should adopt the euro,<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.snp.org/media-centre/news/2002/jan/snp-accuse-labour-over-euro |work=www.snp.org |publisher=Scottish National Party |title=SNP Accuse Labour Over Euro|date=3 January 2002|accessdate=2014-02-18}}</ref> though this was relegated to a long-term rather than short-term goal by the party's 2009 conference.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/8311435.stm |title=SNP European divisions laid bare |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=16 October 2009|accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/6376900/SNP-split-over-euro-membership.html|title=SNP split over euro membership|date=19 October 2009|accessdate=22 January 2014|work=The Daily Telegraph|first=Simon|last=Johnson}}</ref> There is disagreement over whether Scotland would be required to join the euro if it wished to become an EU member state in its own right. All new members are required to commit to joining the single currency as a prerequisite of EU membership, but they must first be party to [[European Exchange Rate Mechanism|ERM II]] for two years. The Scottish government argues that countries have a de facto opt-out from the euro because they are not obliged to join ERM II.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2013/11/5894/15|title=Scotland in the European Union|accessdate=31 December 2013 |publisher=Scottish Government}}</ref> For example, [[Sweden and the euro|Sweden has never adopted the euro]]. The people of Sweden rejected adopting the euro in a [[Swedish euro referendum, 2003|2003 referendum]] and its government has stayed out by refusing to enter ERM II.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/3108292.stm |title=Sweden says No to euro |date=15 September 2003 |accessdate=24 March 2014 |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.riksbank.se/en/Press-and-published/Press-Releases/1998/EU-central-bank-agreement-on-ERM-II-operating-procedures/ |title=EU central bank agreement on ERM II operating procedures |work=www.riksbank.se |publisher=Sveriges Riksbank |date= |accessdate=24 March 2014}}</ref>
The SNP favours continued use of sterling in an independent Scotland through a formal currency union with the UK, with the [[Bank of England]] setting its interest rates and monetary policy and acting as its central bank.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/nov/26/scotland-share-uk-liabilities-currency-union-independence|title=Scotland could refuse to accept UK liabilities if currency union is blocked|date=26 November 2013|accessdate= 2014-01-22}}</ref> The white paper ''Scotland's Future'' identified five key reasons that a currency union "would be in both Scotland and the UK's interests immediately post-independence": Scotland's main trading partner is the UK (2/3 of exports in 2011); "companies operating in Scotland and the UK [...have] complex cross-border supply chains"; there is high labour mobility; "on key measurements of an optimal currency area, the Scottish and UK economies score well"; and short-term economic trends in the UK and Scotland have "a relatively high degree of synchronicity".<ref name = "white paper"/>
In June 2012, [[Alistair Darling]] said voters in the rest of the UK could choose not to be in a currency union with Scotland.<ref>{{cite news|author=Severin Carrell, Scotland correspondent |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/jun/19/scottish-independence-alistair-darling-currency |title=Scottish independence: Alistair Darling challenges plans for currency union | Politics | guardian.co.uk |publisher=Guardian |date= 19 June 2012|accessdate= 2012-10-11}}</ref><ref name="darling">{{cite news|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/jun/25/scottish-independence-darling-ridicules-salmond |title=Scottish independence: Darling ridicules Salmond's claims |publisher= The Guardian |date=25 June 2012 |accessdate= 2012-10-11|first=James |last=Meikle}}</ref> Former Prime Minister Sir [[John Major]] rejected the idea of a currency union, saying it would require the UK to underwrite Scottish debt.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25145961 |title= Scottish independence: Former prime minister John Major gives warning |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=28 November 2013 |accessdate= 2014-01-31}}</ref> Another former Prime Minister, [[Gordon Brown]], said the SNP proposal would create a "colonial relationship" between Scotland and Westminster.<ref>{{cite web|last=Brown |first=Gordon |url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/politics/gordon-brown-writes-exclusively-daily-2841667 |title=Gordon Brown writes exclusively for the Daily Record on why Salmond's economic plans are destined to make Scotland less independent |publisher= |work=Daily Record |date=23 November 2013 |accessdate=2014-06-12}}</ref> The Welsh First Minister, [[Carwyn Jones]], said in November 2013 that he would seek a veto on a currency union between Scotland and the rest of the UK.<ref>{{cite news|last=Carrell|first=Severin|title=Welsh first minister sets out case against Scottish independence|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/nov/21/welsh-first-minister-scottish-independence|newspaper=The Guardian|date=21 November 2013}}</ref>
Yes Scotland said that a currency union would benefit both Scotland and the rest of the UK, as Scotland's exports would boost the [[balance of payments]] and consequently strengthen the [[exchange rate]] of sterling.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.yesscotland.net/questions_on_currency|title=Question on Currency|date=23 April 2013|accessdate= 2013-04-25}}</ref> Meanwhile, UK economists and financial experts stated that the effect on the balance of payments and the exchange rate would be "largely neutral".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://scotspolitics.com/independence/could-an-independent-scotland-keep-sterling-what-the-experts-say |title=Could an Independent Scotland keep Sterling? What experts say |publisher=Scots Politics |date=3 September 2013 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |first=Brian |last=Ashcroft |url=http://www.scottisheconomywatch.com/brian-ashcrofts-scottish/2013/04/sterling-and-scottish-independence.html |title= Sterling and Scottish Independence |publisher=Scottish Economy Watch |date=26 April 2013 |accessdate=2014-06-12}}</ref>
The Scottish government stated that not having a currency union could cost businesses in England, Wales, and Northern Ireland £500 million in transaction charges when trading with an independent Scotland;<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/salmond-sticks-to-plan-a-the-pound-is-scotlands-too.1392620409|title=Salmond warns: the 'George Tax' would cost English business hundreds of millions|date=17 February 2014|accessdate= 2014-02-18}}</ref><ref name="Wales" /> Plaid Cymru treasury spokesperson Jonathan Edwards commented that such costs were a "threat to Welsh business".<ref name="Wales">{{cite web|url=http://www.walesonline.co.uk/news/wales-news/snp-warns-uk-businesses-could-6719298|title=SNP warns UK businesses could face £500m in transaction costs unless an independent Scotland keeps pound|date=18 February 2014|accessdate=2014-02-18}}</ref> [[Scottish Labour Party|Scottish Labour]] leader [[Johann Lamont]] said that any additional transaction costs would fall largely on Scottish companies, costing businesses in Scotland 11 times more than those in England.<ref name = "transaction cost">{{cite web|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/politics/10240776/Independence-would-cost-Scottish-businesses-more-than-their-English-competitors.html |title=Independence 'would cost Scottish businesses more than their English competitors' |publisher=Telegraph |date= |accessdate=2014-06-12}}</ref> The [[Institute of Directors]] stated that any new transaction costs would "pale in comparison to the financial danger of entering an unstable currency union."<ref name = "transaction cost"/>
If Scotland joined a currency union with the UK, some fiscal policy constraints could be imposed on the Scottish state.<ref name="issue"/> Banking experts have said that being the "junior partner" in a currency arrangement could amount to "a loss of fiscal autonomy for Scotland".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-22006400|title=Scottish independence: Banking experts say 'go for Scottish pound'|date=2 April 2013|accessdate= 2013-07-20|work=BBC News}}</ref> Dr Angus Armstrong of the [[National Institute of Economic and Social Research]] wrote that the implicit constraints on its economic policy would be more restrictive than the explicit ones it faces as a member of the UK.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-16865110 |title=Independent money matters |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=3 February 2012 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref> Salmond said in February 2014 that an independent Scotland in a currency union would retain tax and spending powers.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/salmond-stands-firm-on-tax-and-spending-powers.23326332|title=Salmond stands firm on tax and spending powers|date=1 February 2014|accessdate= 2014-02-18}}</ref> Gavin McCrone, former chief economic adviser to the Scottish Office, stated that Scotland's retention of the pound would be pragmatic initially, but problematic thereafter if a Scottish government wished to implement independent policies, and he warned that keeping the pound could lead to the relocation of Scottish banks to London.<ref name=McCrone>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/gavin-mccrone-indy-would-be-costlybut-no-vote-will-mean-no-more-devo.1374326058|title=Gavin McCrone: indy would be costly...but No vote will mean no more devo|date=20 July 2013|accessdate= 2013-07-20}}</ref>
The [[Chancellor of the Exchequer]], as well as equivalent post-holders in the two other main UK political parties, rejected the idea of a formal currency union with an independent Scotland in February 2014.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26166794|title=Scottish Independence: 'Yes' Vote Means Leaving Pound, Says Osborne|publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=13 February 2014|accessdate= 2014-05-30}}</ref> Shadow Chancellor [[Ed Balls]] said the SNP's proposals for a currency union were "economically incoherent",<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/scottish-independence-balls-not-bluffing-on-currency-1-3127292 |title=Scottish independence: Balls 'not bluffing' on currency |publisher=Johnston Press |work=The Scotsman |date=4 October 2013 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref> and that any currency option for an independent Scotland would be "less advantageous than what we have across the UK today".<ref>{{cite news|last=Carrell|first=Severin|title=Ed Balls: Alex Salmond's sterling currency union plans flawed |url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/oct/03/ed-balls-alex-salmond-sterling-union|newspaper=The Guardian|date=3 October 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/ed-balls-calls-for-meeting-with-alex-salmond-to-discuss-indyref.1390231407 |title=Balls to Salmond: let's discuss indyref finance issues|date=20 January 2014 |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |accessdate=2014-01-22}}</ref>
After the three main UK political parties ruled out a formal currency union as a possibility, the [[Adam Smith Institute]] said that the economies of Panama, Ecuador and El Salvador "demonstrate that the informal use of another country's currency can foster a healthy financial system and economy".<ref name="adamsm"/> In September 2014, former European Commissioner [[Olli Rehn]] stated that an independent Scotland would be unable to meet EU membership requirements if it shared sterling informally, as it would not have an independent central bank.<ref name = "rehn">{{cite news |title=Scottish independence: Sterlingisation 'would threaten EU membership' |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-29043878 |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=3 September 2014 |accessdate=3 September 2014}}</ref> Rehn's comment was disputed by Salmond, who restated his belief that a sterling currency union would be formed and pledged to create the necessary financial institutions.<ref name = "rehn"/>
The Scottish Socialist Party favours an independent Scottish currency pegged to sterling in the short term.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scottishsocialistparty.org/wp-content/uploads/2014/02/A5-Scottish-Currency.pdf|title=What currency?|accessdate= 2014-02-18|publisher=Scottish Socialist Party}}</ref> The Scottish Green Party said that keeping sterling as "a short term transitional arrangement" should not be ruled out, but the Scottish government should "keep an open mind about moving towards an independent currency".<ref>{{cite web |url= http://www.patrickharviemsp.com/2013/04/phoneywar/|title=Greens attack phoney war on currency|date=23 April 2013|accessdate= 2014-01-22}}</ref> The [[Jimmy Reid Foundation]], in early 2013, described retention of the pound as a good transitional arrangement, but recommended the eventual establishment of an independent Scottish currency to "insulate" Scotland from the UK's "economic instability".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/scotland-must-have-own-currency-after-yes-vote.20811822|title=Scotland 'must have own currency after Yes vote|date=16 April 2013|accessdate= 2013-04-23}}</ref> Other proponents of an independent Scottish currency include Yes Scotland chairman Dennis Canavan and former SNP deputy leader [[Jim Sillars]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/comment/herald-view/governors-notes-on-currency-union.23293602 |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group|date=30 January 2014|accessdate=2014-02-18|title=Governor's notes on currency union}}</ref>
On 9 September 2014, during the week prior to the referendum, Mark Carney, governor of the Bank of England, said that a currency union between an independent Scotland and the remainder of the UK would be "incompatible with sovereignty". Carney was involved in a "Q&A" session at the [[Trades Union Congress]] and further explained that cross-border ties on tax, spending and banking rules are a prerequisite: "You only have to look across the continent to look at what happens if you don't have those components in place ... You need tax, revenues and spending flowing across those borders to help equalise, to an extent, some of the inevitable differences [across the union]."<ref name="Car">{{cite news|author1=Phillip Inman, Patrick Wintour|title=Scottish independence: currency union 'incompatible with sovereignty'|url=http://www.theguardian.com/business/2014/sep/09/currency-union-independent-scotland-unworkable-bank-governor|accessdate=11 September 2014|work=The Guardian|date=9 September 2014}}</ref> A spokesperson for the SNP's finance minister responded, saying "Successful independent countries such as France, Germany, Finland and Austria all share a currency – and they are in charge of 100% of their tax revenues, as an independent Scotland would be. At present under devolution, Scotland controls only 7% of our revenues."<ref name="Car" /> Carney's comments received vocal support from Darling and the [[GMB (trade union)|GMB]] trade union, the latter of which supports the retention of the current UK formation.<ref name="Car" />
====Government revenues and expenditure====
The [[Barnett formula]] has resulted in higher per-capita public spending in Scotland than England.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/barnett-formula-would-remain-after-no-vote-1-3238320|title=Barnett Formula 'would remain' after No vote |first=David |last=Maddox|work=The Scotsman|publisher=Johnston Press |date=18 December 2013 |accessdate=10 January 2014}}</ref> If [[North Sea oil]] revenue is calculated on a geographic basis, Scotland also produces more per capita tax revenue than the UK average.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-16477990 |title=Scotland: A case of give and take |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |first=Stephanie |last=Flanders |date=9 January 2012 |accessdate=6 May 2013}}</ref><ref name = "oil revenue"/> The [[Institute for Fiscal Studies]] reported in November 2012 that a geographic share of North Sea oil would more than cover the higher public spending, but warned that oil prices are volatile and that oil is a finite resource.<ref name = "oil revenue">{{cite news |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/nov/19/scotland-independence-oil |title=Scotland's post-independence prosperity linked to oil |first=Andrew |last=Sparrow |work=The Guardian |publisher=Guardian Media Group |date=19 November 2012 |accessdate=6 May 2013}}</ref> The [[Government Expenditure and Revenue Scotland]] report for 2012/13 found that North Sea oil revenue had fallen by 41.5% and that Scotland's public spending deficit had increased from £4.6 billion to £8.6 billion.<ref>{{cite news |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-26541575|accessdate=12 March 2014|title=Scottish public spending deficit rises, say latest Gers figures |date=12 March 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-26550389 |title=Tax and spend: What are experts saying about Scottish figures? |date=12 March 2014|accessdate=12 March 2014}}</ref>
In May 2014, the UK government published an analysis identifying a "[[Union dividend]]" of £1,400 per year for each person in Scotland, mainly due to the higher level of public spending under the Barnett formula.<ref name = "dividend">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27595415 |title=Scottish independence: Rivals both say Scots 'better off with us' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=28 May 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> The Scottish government disputed this analysis, saying that each Scot would be £1,000 better off per year under independence by 2030.<ref name = "dividend"/> Three economic experts said that both estimates were possible, but they both depended on unknown variables such as the division of UK government debt, future North Sea oil revenues, possible spending commitments of an independent Scotland and future productivity gains.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27608272 |title=Asking the experts: What are economists saying about indyref figures? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=28 May 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref>
In its analysis, the UK government also estimated setup costs of £1.5 billion (1% of GDP) for establishing an independent state, or possibly £2.7 billion (180 public bodies costing £15 million each).<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27557547 |title=Scottish independence: Row over start-up costs |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=26 May 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref><ref name = "call to release"/> Patrick Dunleavy of the [[London School of Economics]] criticised the UK government's "ludicrous" use of his research in arriving at the latter figure.<ref name = "call to release">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27623105 |title=Scottish independence: Call to release post-'Yes' costs |work=BBC News |publisher= BBC |date=29 May 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> The Treasury said that their main figure (£1.5 billion) was based on estimates by professor Robert Young of [[University of Western Ontario|Western University]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27611563 |title= Scottish independence: Prof Patrick Dunleavy says Treasury claims 'ludicrous' |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=28 May 2014 |accessdate= 12 June 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/scottish-independence-treasury-figure-for-cost-of-yes-vote-badly-misrepresents-key-research--says-academic-whose-own-work-it-was-based-on-9443603.html|title=Scottish independence: Treasury figure for cost of Yes vote ‘badly misrepresents’ key research – says academic whose own work it was based on |work=The Independent|accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref> Two of the main unionist parties in Scotland have called on the SNP to publish their own estimate of the setup costs of an independent state,<ref name = "call to release"/> but the Scottish government says an estimate is not possible as the final bill would depend on negotiations with the rest of the UK.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/voters-will-not-be-told-cost-of-yes-vote-before-referendum.24361774 |title=Voters will not be told cost of Yes vote before referendum|date=30 May 2014|accessdate=4 June 2014|publisher=Herald & Times Group |work=The Herald}}</ref> Professor Dunleavy estimated immediate setup costs of £200 million in a report commissioned by the ''[[Sunday Post]]'' newspaper,<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27962983 |title=Scottish independence: Prof Patrick Dunleavy makes £200m start-up claim |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=22 June 2014 |accessdate= 22 June 2014}}</ref> with "total transition costs" of between £600 million and £1,500 million in the first 10 years of independence.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28053028 |title=Scottish independence: Start-up cost 'up to £1.5bn' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=27 June 2014 |accessdate=27 June 2014}}</ref>
The [[credit rating]] that an independent Scotland would merit has also become a subject of debate.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/scottish-independence-snp-pound-freedom-warning-1-2904279|title=Scottish independence: SNP pound freedom warning|first=Eddie|last=Barnes|newspaper=The Scotsman|date=22 April 2013|accessdate=May 2013}}</ref><ref name = "credit">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-20009301 |title=Scottish independence: credit where it's due|first=Douglas |last=Fraser |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=19 October 2012 |accessdate=19 October 2012}}</ref> The credit-rating agency [[Fitch Group|Fitch]] stated in 2012 that it could not give an opinion on what rating Scotland would have, because Scottish finances would largely depend on the result of negotiations between the UK and Scotland on the division of assets and liabilities.<ref name = "credit"/> [[Standard & Poor's]], another credit-rating agency, asserted in February 2014 that Scotland would face "significant, but not unsurpassable" challenges, and that "even excluding North Sea output and calculating per capita GDP only by looking at onshore income, Scotland would qualify for our highest economic assessment".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.stv.tv/politics/265694-standard-poors-independence-means-significant-challenges-for-scotland/ |work=STV News |publisher=STV |title=Credit ratings agency outlines 'significant' challenges for independence|date= 27 February 2014|accessdate= 13 March 2014}}</ref> Research published by [[Moody's]] in May 2014 said that an independent Scotland would be given an A rating, comparable with Poland, the Czech Republic and Mexico.<ref name = "Moody's"/> An A rating would be two grades below its current rating for the UK, which Moody's said would be unaffected by Scottish independence.<ref name = "Moody's">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27247870 |title=Scottish independence: Moody's predicts Scotland would get an 'A' credit rating |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=1 May 2014 |accessdate=1 May 2014}}</ref>
===Energy===
====Energy market====
Most issues regarding energy are controlled by the UK government,<ref name = "energy">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27118399 |title=Scotland's referendum: What are the issues around energy? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=30 April 2014 |accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref> although control over planning laws allows the Scottish government to prevent the construction of new nuclear power stations in Scotland.<ref name = "energy"/> Supporters of independence want to retain a single energy market for the whole of Great Britain after independence, in order to maintain price stability and support for suppliers.<ref name = "energy"/> Opponents have said that independence would threaten the single energy market.<ref name = "energy"/> Euan Phimister, professor of economics at Aberdeen University, has said that although independence would affect the relationship, it is likely that there would be continued English demand for electricity generated in Scotland because [[OFGEM]] projections suggest that there is little spare capacity.<ref name = "energy claims"/><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26924027 |title=Scottish independence: UK 'faces energy blackout risk' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=7 April 2014 |accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref> The second largest supplier of energy in the UK, [[SSE plc]], believes that a single market would be the most likely outcome under independence, although it would require negotiations and may involve changes to the existing system.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26750110 |title=Scottish independence: SSE says single energy market 'likely' post Yes |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=26 March 2014 |accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref>
Labour MP [[Caroline Flint]] has said that independence would mean higher energy bills in Scotland, as its customers would have to pay more to support [[renewable energy in Scotland]], which represents one third of the UK total.<ref name = "energy claims">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26054455 |title=Scottish independence: Energy market claims analysed |first=Marianne |last=Taylor |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=5 February 2014 |accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref> Euan Phimister has said that bills are likely to increase across the whole of Great Britain because renewable schemes and new nuclear power stations in England are both receiving higher subsidies than the power plants which will shortly close due to environmental regulations.<ref name = "energy claims"/> He also said that there is a distinction between existing and proposed renewable schemes in that the existing schemes have already been paid for, whereas any new construction requires the promise of subsidy from the consumer.<ref name = "energy claims"/> Energy and Climate Change Secretary [[Ed Davey]] stated Scottish generators would no longer be eligible for UK subsidies, which would increase energy bills for consumers.<ref>{{cite web|author=Severin Carrell, Scotland correspondent |url=http://www.theguardian.com/uk-news/2014/apr/09/ed-davey-independent-scotland-fund-energy-alex-salmond |title=Ed Davey says an independent Scotland must fund its own energy projects | Politics |publisher=theguardian.com |date= |accessdate=2014-08-26}}</ref>
====North Sea oil====
Approximately 90% of the United Kingdom's [[North Sea oil]] fields are located in [[Scottish territorial waters]]. The tax revenue generated from an offshore site is not counted within the nation or region nearest to it, but is instead allocated to the [[UK Continental Shelf]]. The revenue from North Sea oil has been used to support current expenditure, rather than creating a [[sovereign oil fund]].<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.france24.com/en/20130417-north-sea-oil-tax-boon-for-margaret-thatcher/ |title=Oil wealth key to Thatcher's legacy, analysts say |first=Adam |last=Mitchell |work=www.france24.com |publisher= |date=17 April 2013 |accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |work=The Guardian |publisher= |first=Ian |last=Jack |url=http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/apr/19/north-sea-oil-80s-boom |title=North Sea oil fuelled the 80s boom, but it was, and remains, strangely invisible |date=19 April 2013 |accessdate=11 May 2014}}</ref> The SNP believes that a portion of the revenues should be invested in a sovereign oil fund. The Scottish government, citing industry regulator Oil and Gas UK, estimated in ''Scotland's Future'' that there were 24 billion [[barrels of oil equivalent]] (boe) remaining to be extracted.<ref name = "wood">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28867487 |title=Scottish independence: Sir Ian Wood issues warning over oil predictions |work=BBC Sport |publisher=BBC |date=20 August 2014 |accessdate=20 August 2014}}</ref> [[Ian Wood (businessman)|Sir Ian Wood]], founder of oil services company [[Wood Group]], said in August 2014 that he believed there were between 15 and 16.5 billion boe and that the impact from declining production would be felt by 2030.<ref name = "wood"/> In September 2014, an investigation by industry recruitment website ''Oil and Gas People'' stated that there were extensive oil reserves to the west of the [[Western Isles]] and [[Shetland]].<ref name = "oil and gas"/> The report anticipated that the region would be developed within the next 10 years because of improvements in drilling technology, rig design and surveying.<ref name = "oil and gas">{{cite web |url=http://www.oilandgaspeople.com/news/1039/scottish-west-coast-untapped-oil-and-gas-reserves-worth-trillions/ |title=Scottish West Coast untapped oil and gas reserves worth trillions |work=www.oilandgaspeople.com |publisher= |date=3 September 2014 |accessdate=3 September 2014}}</ref>
===European Union===
[[File:European Union main map.svg|thumb|Current map of the European Union, member states shown in dark blue.]]
{{see also|Future enlargement of the European Union#Possible future scenarios}}
The SNP advocates that an independent Scotland should have a similar relationship with the European Union (EU) as the UK has with the EU today. This means full membership with some exemptions, such as not having to adopt the euro. There is debate over whether Scotland would be required to re-apply for membership, and if it could retain the UK's opt-outs.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/oct/23/alex-salmond-eu-legal-advice-scotland |title=Alex Salmond accused of misleading Scottish voters about EU legal advice |first=Severin |last=Carrell |work=The Guardian |publisher=Guardian News and Media |date= 23 October 2012 |accessdate=}}</ref><ref name="autogenerated1">Edward, David, "Scotland's Position in the European Union", Scottish Parliamentary Review, Vol. I, No. 2 (Jan 2014) [Edinburgh: Blacket Avenue Press]</ref> The European Commission (EC) offered to provide an opinion to an existing member state on the matter, but the British government confirmed it would not seek this advice, as it did not want to negotiate the terms of independence ahead of the referendum.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-20164826 |title=Scottish independence: UK ministers not seeking advice on Scotland in EU |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=1 November 2012 |accessdate=1 November 2012}}</ref>
There is no direct precedent for part of an EU member state seceding.<ref name = "precedent">{{cite web |url=http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201213/cmselect/cmfaff/writev/643/m05.htm |title=HC 643 The foreign policy implications of and for a separate Scotland |work=www.publications.parliament.uk |publisher= |date=24 September 2012 |accessdate=24 April 2014}}</ref> Supporters of independence have stated that an independent Scotland would become an EU member by treaty amendment under Article 48 of the EU treaties.<ref name = "bbc">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26173004 |title=Scottish independence: Would Scotland be in the EU after a Yes vote? |first=Martin |last=Currie |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=29 April 2014 |accessdate=29 April 2014}}</ref> Opponents say that this would not be possible and that an independent Scotland would need to apply for EU membership under Article 49, which would require ratification by each member state.<ref name = "bbc"/>
[[Christina McKelvie]], Convener of the European and External Relations [[Committees of the Scottish Parliament|Committee of the Scottish Parliament]], in March 2014 asked [[Viviane Reding]], Vice-President of the European Commission, whether Article 48 would apply.<ref>{{cite web |work=www.scottish.parliament.uk |publisher=Scottish Parliament |url=http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/S4_EuropeanandExternalRelationsCommittee/Inquiries/20140310_Convener_to_Vivianne_Reding_European_Commission.pdf |title=European and External Relations Committee |date=10 March 2014 |accessdate=1 May 2014}}</ref> Reding replied that EU treaties would no longer apply to a territory when it secedes from a member state.<ref name = "reding"/> She also indicated that Article 49 would be the route to apply to become a member of the EU.<ref name = "reding">{{cite web|url=http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/S4_EuropeanandExternalRelationsCommittee/Inquiries/Letter_from_Viviane_Reding_Vice_President_of_the_European_Commission_dated_20_March_2014__pdf.pdf |date=20 March 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014 |title=Letter from Viviane Reding |work=www.scottish.parliament.uk |publisher=Scottish Parliament}}</ref> [[José Manuel Barroso]], [[president of the European Commission]], stated earlier that an independent Scotland would have to apply for membership, while the rest of the UK would continue to be a member.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.guardian.co.uk/politics/2012/sep/12/barroso-doubt-scotland-eu-membership |title=Barroso casts doubt on independent Scotland's EU membership rights |first=Severin |last=Carrell |work=The Guardian |publisher=Guardian News and Media |date= 12 September 2012 |accessdate=}}</ref> In 2014, he reiterated that Scotland joining the EU would be "extremely difficult, if not impossible".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26215963 |title=Scottish independence: Barroso says joining EU would be 'difficult' |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=16 February 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref>
The former prime minister Sir [[John Major]] suggested in November 2013 that Scotland would need to re-apply for EU membership, but that this would mean overcoming opposition to separatists among many existing member states, particularly Spain.<ref name = "major">{{cite news |last=Johnson|first=Simon|title=Sir John Major: Scottish independence means 'walking away' from the pound|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/politics/10482145/Sir-John-Major-Scottish-independence-means-walking-away-from-the-pound.html|newspaper=The Telegraph|date=28 November 2013}}</ref> It may block Scottish membership of the EU, amid fears of repercussions with separatist movements in [[Catalonia]] and the [[Basque Country (autonomous community)|Basque country]]:<ref>{{cite news|author=Brian Brady |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/spain-could-wield-veto-over-scotlands-eu-membership-6292846.html |title=Spain could wield veto over Scotland's EU membership |publisher=The Independent |date=22 January 2012 |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> in November 2013 the Spanish Prime Minister, [[Mariano Rajoy]], said: "I know for sure that a region that would separate from a member state of the European Union would remain outside the European Union and that should be known by the Scots and the rest of the European citizens."<ref name="Rajoy EU">{{cite news|title=Scottish independence: Mariano Rajoy says Scotland would be 'outside EU'|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25132026|accessdate=28 November 2013|publisher=BBC News|date=28 November 2013}}</ref> He also stated that an independent Scotland would become a "third country" outside the EU and would require the consent of all 28 EU states to rejoin the EU, but that he would not seek to block an independent Scotland's entry.<ref name="Rajoy EU" /> Salmond cited a letter from Mario Tenreiro of the EC's secretariat general that said it would be legally possible to renegotiate the situation of the UK and Scotland within the EU by unanimious agreement of all member states.<ref name="guardianeurajoy">{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/nov/28/independent-scotland-eu-judicial-expert-alex-salmond |title=Independent Scotland should stay in EU, says judicial expert|date=28 November 2013 |accessdate=28 November 2013|publisher= |work=The Guardian}}</ref> Spain's position was reiterated two days before the referendum by the Spanish European affairs minister, who said "It is crystal clear that any partner member-state that leaves the member state is out of the European Union. If they want to apply again, they would have to follow the procedure of article 49 of the treaties."<ref>{{cite news |last=Johnson|first=Simon|title=Spanish warn independent Scotland would get euro not pound|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/11099167/Spanish-warn-independent-Scotland-would-get-euro-not-pound.html|newspaper=The Telegraph|date=16 September 2014}}</ref>
Professor Sir David Edward, a former European Court judge, has stated that the EU institutions and member states would be "obliged" to start negotiations before independence took effect to decide the future relationship.<ref name = "edward"/> He said this would be achieved by agreed amendment of the existing Treaties (Article 48), rather than a new Accession Treaty (Article 49).<ref name="autogenerated1"/><ref name = "edward">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-20757450|title=Scottish independence: Sir David Edward says Jose Manuel Barroso 'wrong' on EU|date=17 December 2012|accessdate=20 July 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref> Graham Avery, the EC's honorary director general, agreed with Edward.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25965703 |title=Scottish independence: Scotland could join EU in 18 months, says expert |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=30 January 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> Avery wrote a report, published by the European Policy Centre, which said that EU leaders would probably allow Scotland to be part of the EU because of the legal and practical difficulties that would arise from excluding it.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27623271 |title=Scottish independence: Think tank report backs EU membership |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=29 May 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> In a research paper, Professor Sionaidh Douglas-Scott of Oxford University stated that the EU law normally takes a "pragmatic and purposive approach" to issues that are not already provided for by existing treaties.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28197298 |title=Scottish independence: Academic says EU entry 'would be smooth' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=7 July 2014 |accessdate=7 July 2014}}</ref> Research published by the Economic and Social Research Council in August 2014 concluded that it is unlikely that an independent Scotland would be cut off from the rights and obligations of EU membership for any period of time, even if Scotland was not formally a member state of the EU from its date of independence.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.stv.tv/scotland-decides/news/289096-scotlands-european-union-membership-not-in-doubt-claims-esrc/|title=Scotland's European Union membership 'not in doubt' claims study|date=20 August 2014|accessdate=21 August 2014|publisher=STV News}}</ref>
In January 2013, the Republic of Ireland's Minister of European Affairs, [[Lucinda Creighton]], stated that "if Scotland were to become independent, Scotland would have to apply for membership and that can be a lengthy process";<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-21195630|title=Scottish independence: Irish minister says EU application 'would take time'|publisher=BBC|date=25 January 2013}}</ref> she later clarified, writing that she "certainly did not at any stage suggest that Scotland could, should or would be thrown out of the EU".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotreferendum.com/2013/01/26/irelands-minister-for-european-affairs/|title=Ireland's Minister for European Affairs |work=www.scotreferendum.com |publisher=Scottish Government|date=26 January 2013}}</ref> In May 2013, Roland Vaubel, an [[Alternative für Deutschland]] adviser,<ref>{{cite web|url=https://www.alternativefuer.de/partei/wissenschaftlicher-beirat/|title=Advisory Board |accessdate=17 October 2013}} {{de icon}}</ref> published a paper stating that Scotland would remain a member of the EU upon independence, and suggested there would need to be negotiations between the British and Scottish governments on sharing "the rights and obligations of the predecessor state". Vaubel also said that Barroso's comments on the legal position had "no basis in the European treaties".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/adviser-to-german-government-indy-scotland-would-still-be-in-europe.20948699|title=Adviser to German Government: 'Indy Scotland Would Still Be in Europe' |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |date=12 May 2013|accessdate=14 May 2013}}</ref>
====Future status of the United Kingdom in the European Union====
In January 2013, the British Prime Minister, David Cameron, committed the [[Conservative Party (UK)|Conservative Party]] to a referendum in 2017 on UK membership of the EU if they win the 2015 general election.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-21148282 |title=David Cameron promises in/out referendum on EU |publisher=BBC |work=BBC News |date=23 January 2013 | accessdate=23 January 2013}}</ref> Legislation for an in/out EU referendum was approved by the House of Commons in November 2013.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-25152028|title=EU referendum bill gets Commons approval|date=29 November 2013 |publisher=BBC |accessdate=2 December 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref> Studies have shown some divergence in attitudes to the EU in Scotland and the rest of the UK. Although a Scottish government review based on survey data between 1999 and 2005 found that people in Scotland reported "broadly similar Eurosceptic views as people in Britain as a whole",<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2007/01/23145439/5|title=Attitudes Towards the European Union and the Challenges in Communicating 'Europe': Building a Bridge Between Europe and its Citizens|accessdate=2 December 2013}}</ref> Ipsos MORI noted in February 2013 that voters in Scotland said they would choose to remain in the EU in a referendum, while there was a majority for withdrawal in England.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ipsos-mori.com/researchpublications/researcharchive/3131/Scots-want-EU-referendum-but-would-vote-to-stay-in.aspx|title=Scots want EU referendum but would vote to stay in|publisher=Ipsos MORI |date=14 February 2013|accessdate=2 December 2013}}</ref>
Yes Scotland said that the UK government plans for an EU referendum have caused "economic uncertainty" for Scotland.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.yesscotland.net/what_do_no_campaign_say_now_eu_membership_under_threat_from_westminster |title=What do No campaign say now EU membership under threat from Westminster? |publisher=Yes Scotland |date=23 January 2013 | accessdate=23 January 2013}}</ref> During a CBI Scotland event attended by Cameron, businessman [[Mike Rake]] criticised him for creating uncertainty about EU membership.<ref name = "salmond eu"/> In response to such criticism, Cameron pointed to examples of inward investment in the UK that he said was not happening in the rest of Europe.<ref name = "salmond eu">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28980041 |title=Scottish independence: Alex Salmond says Eurosceptics 'damaging Scotland' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=29 August 2014 |accessdate=29 August 2014}}</ref> Some commentators have suggested that the UK leaving the EU would undermine the case for Scottish independence, since free trade, freedom of movement and the absence of border controls with the UK could no longer be assumed.<ref>{{cite web|author=Brian Ashcroft |url=http://www.scottisheconomywatch.com/brian-ashcrofts-scottish/2013/01/should-scotland-be-in-eu-if-ruk-out.html |title=Should Scotland be in EU if rUK out? |publisher=Scottish Economy Watch |date=28 January 2013 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.futureukandscotland.ac.uk/blog/what-future-scottish-eu-relationship |title=What future for the Scottish-EU relationship? | Future of the UK and Scotland: The Referendum Debate |publisher=Futureukandscotland.ac.uk |date=3 May 2013 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last=Roxburgh|first=Angus|title=Scotland's tough call: stay in the UK, or stay in the EU?|url=http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2013/may/19/scotland-tough-call-uk-eu-referendums|newspaper=The Guardian|date=19 May 2013}}</ref>
===Health care===
Responsibility for health care has been devolved to the Scottish Parliament since it was established in 1999.<ref name = "health devo"/> The Scottish government has enacted health policies which are different from those in England, such as abolishing charges for prescriptions and elderly personal care.<ref name = "health devo">{{Cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-18364699 |title=Q&A: Your Scottish independence questions |date=25 June 2012 |accessdate=29 May 2014 |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC}}</ref> [[NHS Scotland]] has been operationally independent of the NHS in the rest of the United Kingdom since the formation of the NHS in 1948.<ref name = "reciprocal"/><ref name = "nhs">{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/scottish-independence-what-would-happen-to-the-nhs-1-2969345 |title=Scottish independence: What would happen to the NHS? |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=17 June 2013 |accessdate=29 May 2014 |first=Tom |last=Peterkin}}</ref> Supporters of independence argue that independence is needed because possible reductions in the NHS budget in England would result in reduced funding for Scotland, which would make it difficult to maintain the existing service.<ref name = "nhs"/> [[Harry Burns (doctor)|Harry Burns]] a former chief medical officer for Scotland, said in July 2014 that he thought independence could be beneficial for public health because it may give people greater control of their lives.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28390734 |title=Scottish independence: Sir Harry Burns says Yes vote could be 'positive' for health |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=20 July 2014 |accessdate=20 July 2014}}</ref>
In May 2014, about 100 medical workers, including surgeons, consultant doctors, GPs, pharmacists, dentists, hospital porters and janitors joined a pro-independence campaign group called NHS for Yes. Its co-founder described health care in Scotland as "a shining example of self-government for Scotland demonstrably being far better than Westminster government" and said independence would "protect [NHS Scotland] from future Westminster funding cuts, and the damaging impact of privatisation south of the border".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.stv.tv/politics/276475-medics-launch-nhs-for-yes-campaign-to-protect-health-service/|title=Medics launch NHS for Yes campaign to 'protect health service'|date=24 May 2014|accessdate=4 June 2014|publisher=STV News}}</ref>
Two days before the referendum, papers indicating "a funding gap of £400–£450m in the next two financial years, 2015–17", for Scotland's NHS, resulting from Scottish government policies, were leaked to the media.<ref name="NHS16">{{Cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-29213416|title=Scottish independence: NHS in Scotland 'faces £400m funding gap'|date=16 September 2014 |accessdate=16 September 2014|work=BBC News |publisher=BBC}}</ref> A Scottish government spokesperson commented that the papers were from "part of the regular discussions among NHS leaders to plan for NHS Scotland's future".<ref name="NHS16" />
====Specialist treatment====
Opponents of independence say that being part of the UK is crucial in allowing Scots to obtain specialist treatment elsewhere in the UK.<ref name = "nhs"/> At present, NHS Scotland has reciprocal arrangements in place with the NHS services in the rest of the UK and specialist services are shared.<ref name = "reciprocal">{{Cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/magazine-25035427 |title=Scottish independence: What would it mean for the rest of the UK? |work=BBC News Magazine |publisher=BBC |date=25 November 2013 |accessdate=29 May 2014}}</ref> Vote No Borders, a unionist campaign group, ran a cinema advert claiming that Scots would find it more difficult to obtain treatment at the [[Great Ormond Street Hospital]] (GOSH), a London facility which specialises in care for children.<ref name = "gosh"/><ref name = "gosh bbc"/> Vote No Borders withdrew the advert after GOSH complained that it had not been consulted about the advert and stated that they have reciprocal health care agreements with numerous countries.<ref name = "gosh">{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/health/great-ormond-street-hospital-hits-out-at-no-advert-1-3427182 |title=Great Ormond Street Hospital hits out at No advert |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=29 May 2014 |accessdate=29 May 2014 |first=Tom |last=Peterkin}}</ref><ref name = "gosh bbc">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27632803 |title=Scottish independence: Vote No Borders advert pulled over child hospital claim |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=30 May 2014 |accessdate=30 May 2014}}</ref>
===International relations===
The white paper on independence proposes that an independent Scotland would open around 100 embassies around the world.<ref name="sturgeon embassies"/> David Cameron has suggested an independent Scotland would be "marginalised" at the United Nations, where the UK is a permanent member of the [[United Nations Security Council|Security Council]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.huffingtonpost.co.uk/2012/02/15/scottish-independence-cameron-un-security-council_n_1279408.html |title=Scottish Independence: Cameron Warns On UN Security Council Place |publisher=Huffingtonpost.co.uk |date= |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> John Major has suggested that, after Scottish independence, the remaining UK could lose its permanent seat at the UN Security Council.<ref>{{cite web|last=Stacey |first=Kiran |url=http://www.ft.com/intl/cms/s/0/4aceef46-6679-11e3-aa10-00144feabdc0.html#axzz2pCHUUmAP |title=Scots independence threat to UK influence, says Sir John Major |publisher=FT.com |date=16 December 2013 |accessdate=2014-01-31}}</ref>
===Monarchy===
{{see also|Union of the Crowns}}
[[File:Elizabeth II greets NASA GSFC employees, May 8, 2007 edit.jpg|thumb|upright|[[Elizabeth II|Queen Elizabeth II]] of the United Kingdom. ]]
A republic is favoured by some pro-independence political parties and organisations, including the [[Scottish Green Party]]<ref>{{cite news|title=Radicals threaten Salmond and Scottish independence campaign |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/radicals-threaten-salmond-and-scottish-independence-campaign-8347545.html|date=24 November 2012|accessdate=13 February 2013|work=The Independent|first=Hamish|last=MacDonell}}</ref> and the Scottish Socialist Party.<ref>{{cite web|title=SNP minister: I think indy Scotland should vote on the Queen|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/snp-minister-i-think-indy-scotland-should-vote-on-the-queen.1376255659|date=11 August 2013|accessdate=28 August 2013}}</ref> The SNP is in favour of retaining the monarchy by a [[personal union]] with the rest of the UK.<ref name="issue">{{cite web|url=http://diplomatonline.com/mag/2012/04/the-case-for-scottish-independence/ |title=The case for Scottish independence : Diplomat Magazine |publisher=Diplomatonline.com |date=12 April 2012 |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> Alex Salmond has said the monarchy would be retained by an independent Scotland. [[Christine Grahame]] has said she believes that party policy is to hold a referendum on the status of the monarchy,<ref>{{cite news|last=Johnson |first=Simon |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/politics/9261092/Queen-may-not-remain-monarch-of-an-independent-Scotland.html |title=Queen 'may not remain monarch of an independent Scotland' |publisher=Telegraph Media Group |work=Daily Telegraph |date=12 May 2012 |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> due to a 1997 SNP conference resolution.<ref>{{cite book|title=The Battle for Britain|last=Torrance|first=David|page=67|publisher=Biteback Publishing}}</ref>
Some media reports suggested that the announcement on 8 September of [[Second child of the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge|the pregnancy of the Duchess of Cambridge with her second child]] would have an effect on the outcome of the referendum, scheduled to take place less than a fortnight later, providing a boost to [[Unionism in Scotland|pro-union sentiment]].<ref>{{cite news|last1=Moore|first1=Suzanne|title=England’s love-bombing of Scotland is a pathetic afterthought|url=http://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2014/sep/08/england-love-bombing-scotland-no-vote-westminster|accessdate=8 September 2014|publisher=[[The Guardian]]}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|last1=Hayes|first1=Brown|title=How The New Royal Baby Could Stop Scottish Independence|url=http://thinkprogress.org/world/2014/09/08/3564199/scotland-royal-baby/|website=[[ThinkProgress]]|accessdate=8 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Davison|first1=Janet|title=Scotland's referendum: How the next royal baby could sway it|url=http://www.cbc.ca/news/world/scotland-s-referendum-how-the-next-royal-baby-could-sway-it-1.2759279|accessdate=10 September 2014|agency=[[Canadian Broadcasting Corporation]]|date=9 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|last1=Goldhill|first1=Olivia|title=Kate Middleton pregnant: Could Scottish royal baby fever keep the union together?|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/kate-middleton/11081715/Kate-Middleton-pregnant-Could-Scottish-royal-baby-fever-keep-the-union-together.html|accessdate=10 September 2014|publisher=[[Telegraph.co.uk]]|date=8 September 2014}}</ref> Although the Queen's official position on Scottish independence is neutral,<ref>{{cite news|author1=Graeme Wearden, Patrick Wintour, Rowena Mason|title=Pound slumps to 10-month low after Scottish yes campaign takes poll lead|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2014/sep/08/pound-slumps-scottish-yes-campaign-poll-lead|accessdate=8 September 2014|work=The Guardian|date=8 September 2014}}</ref> private comments that she hoped that people would "think very carefully about the future" were quickly published widely in the media.<ref>{{cite news|title=Queen hopes Scots voters ‘think carefully’ |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/uk/queen-hopes-scots-voters-think-carefully-1-3541591|work=The Scotsman|date=15 September 2014|accessdate=15 September 2014}}</ref>
===Pensions===
[[UK State Pension]]s are managed by the UK government, paying £113.10 per week to a single person who is of state pension age in 2013/14.<ref name = "pensions">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26918766 |title=Scotland's referendum: What are the issues around pensions? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=30 April 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref> The state pension age for men is 65, but this is due to rise to 66 in 2020 and 67 by 2028.<ref name = "pensions"/> Research by the [[National Institute of Economic and Social Research]] found that an independent Scotland could delay these increases, due to a lower life expectancy.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26082480 |title=Scottish independence: Pension age rise 'could be delayed' |first=Douglas |last=Fraser |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=7 February 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref> The ''Scotland's Future'' white paper pledged to maintain a state pension at a similar rate to the UK.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26354467 |title=Scottish independence: Pensions and the referendum debate|first=Marianne |last=Taylor |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=27 February 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref>
Former prime minister Gordon Brown said in April 2014 that Scotland had an above-average share of the public-sector pension bill and concluded that pensions would be protected by sharing risks and resources within the UK.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-27106954 |title=Scottish independence: Brown says Scotland's pensions protected by UK |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=22 April 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref> UK government pensions minister [[Steve Webb]] said in May 2014 that Scots would be entitled to the current levels of state pension after independence because they had accumulated rights within the existing system.<ref name = "webb">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27309215 |title=Scottish independence: Pensions 'secure' post-Yes, says UK minister |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=7 May 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref> Webb went on to say that there would need to be negotiations between the UK and Scotland as to how these pensions would be paid.<ref name = "webb"/>
In relation to private pension schemes, a report by the [[Institute of Chartered Accountants of Scotland]] expressed concern that there were no plans to deal with EU regulations that may affect the funding of cross-border defined benefit schemes.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26015455 |title=Scottish independence:Accountancy body claims there is no clear plan for pensions |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=3 February 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref> The EC decided in March 2014 not to relax these regulations, which require cross-border schemes to be fully funded.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26771173 |title=Scottish independence: European Commission reverses pensions decision |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=27 March 2014 |accessdate=7 May 2014}}</ref>
===Sport===
Scotland hosted the [[2014 Commonwealth Games]] in Glasgow, less than two months before the referendum.<ref name = "2014cg"/><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/independence-poll-good-for-games.16854597 |publisher=Herald & Times Group |title=Independence poll good for Games|work=The Herald|date=27 February 2012|accessdate=10 March 2014}}</ref> The Scottish team won a record number of gold medals, which Alan Bisset said would help give voters more belief and confidence.<ref name = "2014cg"/> ''[[Sunday Herald]]'' columnist Ian Bell took an opposing view, saying that sporting success would be unlikely to aid support for independence due to the lengthy and passionate debate on the subject.<ref name = "2014cg">{{cite news |url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/b4d0f642-1596-11e4-ae2e-00144feabdc0.html#axzz38rJqXdp9 |title=Golden games performance boosts Scotland before referendum |first=Mure |last=Dickie |work=Financial Times |publisher= |date=27 July 2014 |accessdate=29 July 2014}}</ref>
Former Labour first minister [[Henry McLeish]] published a report in May 2014 that found no obvious barriers to an independent Scotland competing in the [[2016 Summer Olympics]].<ref name = "mcleish">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27329425 |title=Scottish independence: Athletes 'could choose Team Scotland' for Rio Olympics |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=8 May 2014 |accessdate=9 May 2014}}</ref> McLeish said that some athletes, particularly those in team sports, may choose to compete for the existing Great Britain team rather than Scotland as they would be nationals of both states.<ref name = "mcleish"/> [[International Olympic Committee]] representative [[Craig Reedie]] pointed out that Scotland would need to obtain United Nations membership and may want to set its own Olympic qualifying standards, which would need to be done in the period between independence (March 2016) and the closing date for entries (July 2016).<ref name = "mcleish"/><ref>{{cite web |url=http://news.stv.tv/politics/140940-independent-scotland-would-have-to-compete-in-team-gb-at-2016-olympics/?utm_source=twitterfeed&utm_medium=twitter|title=Independent Scotland 'would have to compete in Team GB at 2016 Olympics'|work=STV News |publisher=STV Group|date=12 August 2012|accessdate=12 August 2012}}</ref>
[[Gordon Brown]] pointed to the [[2012 Summer Olympics medal table|2012 medal count]] for Great Britain, saying that it showed the success of a union that included the two nations.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.aljazeera.com/indepth/opinion/2012/08/201281914931705215.html |title=Who will claim the Olympics? |publisher= |work=Al Jazeera |date= |accessdate=11 October 2012}}</ref> Scottish athletes were involved in 13 of the 65 medals won by Great Britain in 2012, but only three of those were won by Scots without assistance from other athletes.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/sport/0/olympics/24081596 |title=Scottish independence: 'Scotland Olympic team could be in Rio' |work=BBC Sport |publisher=BBC |date=18 September 2013 |accessdate=9 May 2014}}</ref> [[Chris Hoy|Sir Chris Hoy]] said in May 2013 that it could "take time" for Scottish athletes to "establish themselves in a new training environment", indicating that the good performance of Scottish athletes in the Great Britain team would not automatically translate into that of an independent Scotland team.<ref name = "hoy"/> Hoy also said that he believed the lack of facilities and coaching infrastructure in Scotland would have to be addressed by an independent state.<ref name = "hoy">{{cite web |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/sir-chris-hoy-independence-will-make-it-harder-for-scots-athletes-to-reach-their-potential.1369743799|title=Sir Chris Hoy: independence will make it harder for Scots athletes to reach their potential |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |date=28 May 2013|accessdate=28 May 2013}}</ref>
===Status of Northern and Western Isles===
{{main|Constitutional status of Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles}}
The prospect of an independent Scotland has raised questions about the future of the [[Northern Isles]] ([[Orkney]] and [[Shetland]]) and the [[Outer Hebrides|Western Isles]], island groups off the Scottish mainland. Some islanders have called for separate referendums to be held in the islands on 25 September 2014, one week after the Scottish referendum.<ref>{{cite news|url=
http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/10705477/Shetland-and-Orkney-should-get-vote-on-whether-to-leave-Scotland.html|title=Shetland and Orkney should get vote on whether to leave Scotland|date=18 March 2014|publisher=Daily Telegraph|accessdate=26 March 2014|first=Ben|last=Riley-Smith}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.apnewsarchive.com/2014/Scotland%27s_Vikings_go_own_way_in_independence_vote/id-df9487dfda21429c8fe71bdbf5cdcf87 |title=Scotland's Vikings go own way in independence vote |date=23 March 2014|agency=Associated Press |accessdate=9 May 2014|first=Jill |last=Lawless}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/2014/03/24/uk-scotland-independence-islands-idUKBREA2N1FV20140324|title=Scottish islanders seek votes for own independence|publisher=Reuters|date=24 March 2014|accessdate=26 March 2014}}</ref> In March 2014, the Scottish Parliament published the online petition it had received calling for such referendums, which was supported by Shetland MSP [[Tavish Scott]].<ref name = "petition">{{cite web|url=http://www.shetnews.co.uk/features/scottish-independence-debate/8175-island-referendum-petition-launched |title=Island referendum petition launched |publisher= |work=[[Shetland Times]] |date=18 March 2014|accessdate=26 March 2014}}</ref> The referendums would ask islanders to choose from three options: that the island group should become an independent country; it should remain in Scotland; or (in the event of Scottish independence) it should remain in the UK.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/petition-for-independence-in-the-western-isles-shetland-and-orkney.23732164|title=Petition for independence in the Western Isles, Shetland and Orkney |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |date=19 March 2014|accessdate=26 March 2014}}</ref>
The third option would implement the conditional promise made in 2012, when an SNP spokesperson said that, in the event of Scottish independence, Orkney and Shetland could remain in the United Kingdom if their "drive for self-determination" was strong enough.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/politics/9156220/SNP-admits-Shetland-and-Orkney-could-opt-out-of-independent-Scotland.html|title=SNP admits Shetland and Orkney could opt out of independent Scotland|date=20 March 2012|accessdate=2 September 2013|work=Daily Telegraph |publisher=Telegraph Media Group |first=Simon|last=Johnson}}</ref> Politicians in the three island groups have referred to the Scottish referendum as the most important event in their political history "since the inception of the island councils in 1975". Angus Campbell, leader of the Western Isles, said that the ongoing constitutional debate "offers the opportunity for the three island councils to secure increased powers for our communities to take decisions which will benefit the economies and the lives of those who live in the islands".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-22934024|title=Orkney, Shetland and Western Isles councils lobby for more powers |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=17 June 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref>
In a meeting of the island councils in March 2013, leaders of the three territories discussed their future in the event of Scottish independence, including whether the islands could demand and achieve autonomous status within either Scotland or the rest of the UK. Among the scenarios proposed were achieving either [[Crown Dependency]] status or self-government modelled after the [[Faroe Islands]], in association with either Scotland or the UK.<ref name="guardianisles">{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/mar/17/scottish-independence-islands-home-rule|title=Scottish independence: islands consider their own 'home rule' |work=The Guardian |publisher= |date=17 March 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> Steven Heddle, Orkney's council leader, described pursuing Crown Dependency status as the least likely option, as it would threaten funding from the EU, which is essential for local farmers.<ref name="guardianisles" /> Alasdair Allan, MSP for the Western Isles, said independence could have a positive impact on the isles, as "crofters and farmers could expect a substantial uplift in agricultural and rural development funding via the Common Agricultural Policy if Scotland were an independent member state of the EU".<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.stornowaygazette.co.uk/news/local-headlines/what-independence-white-paper-could-mean-for-the-isles-1-3210531|title=What independence White Paper could mean for the Isles |work=Stornoway Gazette |publisher= |date=27 November 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013}}</ref>
In July 2013, the Scottish government made the [[Lerwick Declaration]], indicating an interest in devolving power to Scotland's islands. By November, it had made a commitment to devolve further powers to Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles in the event of independence.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/islands-set-to-win-key-decision-making-powers-with-unprecedented-legislatio.22769214|title=Islands set to win key decision-making powers with unprecedented legislation |last=Ross |first=David |work=The Herald (Glasgow)|date=23 November 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013}}</ref> Steven Heddle called for legislation to that effect to be introduced regardless of the referendum result.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.shetnews.co.uk/news/7640-islands-act-should-not-depend-on-independence|title=Islands Act should not depend on independence |work=Shetland News |publisher= |date=21 November 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013}}</ref>
===Universities===
====Scientific research====
In 2012–13, Scottish universities received 13.1% of [[Research Councils UK]] funding.<ref>{{cite web |url=https://www.gov.uk/government/uploads/system/uploads/attachment_data/file/255788/bis-13-1115-scotland-analysis-science-and-research.pdf |title=Scotland analysis: Science and research |work=www.gov.uk |publisher=UK Government |date=November 2013 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref> Dr Alan Trench of [[University College London]] has said that Scottish universities receive a "hugely disproportionate" level of funding and would no longer be able to access it following independence. Willie Rennie, leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, has suggested that independence would mean Scottish universities losing £210m in research funding.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotlibdems.org.uk/news/2011/11/uk-link-funds-rd-funding-scotland|title=UK link funds R&D funding in Scotland |work=www.scotlibdems.org.uk |publisher=|date=27 November 2011|accessdate=20 July 2013}}</ref> The Institute of Physics in Scotland warned that access to international facilities such as the [[CERN]] [[Large Hadron Collider]], the [[European Space Agency]], and [[European Southern Observatory]] could require renegotiation by the Scottish government.<ref name = "scientists"/> It also expressed concerns about research funding from UK charities and the reaction of international companies with Scottish facilities.<ref name = "scientists">{{cite web|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/uk/scottish-independence-scientists-setback-fears-1-3008634|title=Scottish independence: Scientists setback fears |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=21 July 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013}}</ref>
The Scottish government's education secretary, [[Michael Russell (politician)|Michael Russell]], has said that Scotland's universities have a "global reputation" that would continue to attract investment after independence.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.stv.tv/politics/282953-scottish-university-research-at-risk-from-independence-claim-libdems/|title=Scottish university research at risk from independence, claim LibDems|date=27 November 2011|accessdate=21 May 2013}}</ref> In September 2013, the principal of the [[University of Aberdeen]] said that Scottish universities could continue to access UK research funding through a "single research area" that crossed both nations' boundaries.<ref>{{cite news |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/education/scottish-independence-unis-could-get-uk-funds-1-3070092|title=Scottish independence: Unis 'could get UK funds'|date=1 September 2013|accessdate=2 September 2013}}</ref> David Bell, professor of economics at the [[University of Stirling]], said that cross-border collaboration might continue, but Scottish universities could still lose their financial advantage.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/news/state-of-independence-could-prove-costly-scots-warned/2004011.article|title=State of independence could prove costly, Scots warned|date=23 May 2013|accessdate=27 November 2013}}</ref> Roger Cook of the Scotland Institute pointed out that although Scottish universities do receive a higher share of Research Councils funding, they are much less dependent on this as a source of funding than their counterparts in England.<ref name = "experts">{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25847084 |title=Scottish independence referendum: Experts examine the claims |first1=Martin |last1=Currie |first2=Andrew |last2=Black |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=12 February 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref> Professors from Scotland's five medical schools have written an open letter warning that independence would mean Scotland's researcher base being "denied its present ability to win proportionately more grant funding".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27294970|title=Scottish independence: What is dividing academics?|work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=23 May 2014 |accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref>
Questions have been asked whether Scotland, as an economy of a smaller size than the UK, would still support the same level of research activity, and what additional efforts might be required to establish a system of research councils "north of the border".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/higher-education-network/blog/2014/aug/18/scottish-independence-impact-university-research|title=Scottish independence: how would it affect university research funding?|work=Guardian Blog|publisher=Guardian |date=18 August 2014 |accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.labtimes.org/editorial/e_523.lasso|title=To be or not to be Independent, that is the Question!|work=Lab Times|date=17 July 2014 |accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref> Jo Shaw, Salvesen chair of European institutions at the [[University of Edinburgh]], noted that in smaller states, relationships between universities and research funders become "cosy", and lead to a "corporatist" approach.<ref name = "timeshighereducation">{{cite news |url=http://www.timeshighereducation.co.uk/features/what-might-independence-mean-for-scotlands-universities/2013795.article|title=Scottish independence: how would it affect university research funding?|publisher=Times Higher Education |date=12 June 2014 |accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref>
====Student funding====
{{See also|Tuition fees in the United Kingdom}}
Students domiciled in Scotland do not pay tuition fees.<ref name = "endowment">{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/6747811.stm |title=Q&A : Graduate endowments |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=13 June 2007 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref> Students domiciled in the rest of the UK are charged fees of up to £9,000 per annum by Scottish universities,<ref name = "squeezed">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-22621470 |title=Scottish independence: Students could be 'squeezed out' of home universities |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=22 May 2013 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref> but those from other EU member states are not charged fees, in order to comply with the [[European Convention on Human Rights]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/618698.stm |title=Full text of tuition fees agreement |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=25 January 2000 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref>
If Scotland became an independent state, students from the rest of the UK would be in the position in which students from the rest of the EU are.<ref name = "squeezed"/> A University of Edinburgh study found that this would cause a loss in funding and could potentially squeeze out Scottish students.<ref name = "squeezed"/> The study suggested three courses of action for an independent Scotland: introduce tuition fees for all students; negotiate an agreement with the EU where a quota of student places would be reserved for Scots; or introduce a separate admissions service for students from other EU member states, with an admission fee attached.<ref name = "squeezed"/> It concluded that the EU may allow a quota system for some specialist subjects, such as medicine, where there is a clear need for local students to be trained for particular careers, but that other subjects would not be eligible.<ref name = "squeezed"/> The study also found that their third suggestion would run against the spirit of the [[Bologna agreement]], which aims to encourage EU student mobility.<ref name = "squeezed"/>
The Scottish government stated in its white paper, ''[[Scotland's Future]]'', that the present tuition fees arrangement would remain in place in an independent Scotland, as the EU allows for different fee arrangements in "exceptional circumstances".<ref name = "MPs claim"/> [[Jan Figel]], a former EU commissioner for education, said in January 2014 that it would be illegal for an independent Scotland to apply a different treatment to students from the rest of the UK.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/education/scottish-independence-ruk-tuition-fees-illegal-1-3271703 |title=Scottish independence: rUK tuition fees 'illegal' |first=Andrew |last=Whitaker |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=17 January 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref> The Law Society of Scotland concurred.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/10964744/Scottish-tuition-fees-for-English-students-could-be-illegal-under-independence-lawyers-warn.html |title=Scottish tuition fees for English students could be illegal under independence, lawyers warn |publisher=Telegraph |date=14 July 2014 |accessdate=2014-08-26}}</ref> A report by a House of Commons select committee stated that it would cost an independent Scottish government £150 million to provide free tuition to students from the rest of the UK.<ref name = "MPs claim">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26596530 |title=Scottish independence: MPs claim Yes vote would damage education |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=16 March 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref> A group of academics campaigning for independence expressed concern that the present arrangements would not continue if Scotland stayed within the UK, due to public spending cuts in England and the consequential effects of the [[Barnett formula]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26233150 |title=Scottish independence: Higher education only safe with 'Yes' vote, say academics |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=17 February 2014 |accessdate=30 April 2014}}</ref>
===Welfare===
The Yes campaign has argued that control of [[welfare|welfare policy]] would be a major benefit of independence.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yesscotland.net/news/scotland-can-do-better-welfare-and-pensions|title=Scotland can do better on Welfare and Pensions|date=31 July 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> According to the [[Institute for Fiscal Studies]], independence would "give the opportunity for more radical reform, so that the [welfare] system better reflects the views of the Scottish people".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ifs.org.uk/bns/bn139.pdf|title=Government spending on benefits and state pensions in Scotland: current patterns and future issues|date=July 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> Yes Scotland and deputy first minister Nicola Sturgeon have said the existing welfare system can only be guaranteed by voting for independence.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/benefits-could-switch-easily-after-yes-vote.21293018|title=Benefits could switch easily after a Yes vote, say SNP expert group|date=10 June 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yesscotland.net/news/only-yes-vote-will-meet-demands-more-powers|title=Only a Yes vote will meet demands for more powers|date=6 January 2014|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> In September 2013, the [[Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations]] (SCVO), which represents charities, called for a separate welfare system to be established in Scotland.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/scotland-needs-a-separate-welfare-system-say-charities.22295346|title=Scotland needs a separate welfare system, say charities|date=29 September 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref>
In November 2013, the Scottish government pledged to use the powers of independence to reverse key aspects of the [[Welfare Reform Act 2012]], which was implemented across the UK despite opposition from a majority of Scotland's MPs. It said it would abolish [[Universal Credit]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/white-paper-preview-snp-key-pledge-well-scrap-uk-welfare-reforms-in-a-faire.22776588|title=White Paper preview: SNP key pledge: we'll scrap UK welfare reforms in a fairer Scotland|date=24 November 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> and the [[bedroom tax]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/sturgeon-well-kick-out-the-bedroom-tax-in-an-independent-scotland.20600901|title=Sturgeon: we'll kick out the bedroom tax in an independent Scotland|date=24 March 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> The SNP has also criticised [[Rachel Reeves]], Labour's shadow secretary of state for work and pensions, for saying<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/oct/12/labour-benefits-tories-labour-rachel-reeves-welfare|title=Labour will be tougher than Tories on benefits, promises new welfare chief|date=12 October 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> a future UK Labour government would be even tougher on benefits than the [[Cameron ministry]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.snp.org/media-centre/news/2014/jan/snp-comment-joseph-rowntree-foundation%E2%80%99s-report|title=SNP comment on Joseph Rowntree Foundation's report|date=24 January 2014|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.snp.org/media-centre/news/2013/oct/report-reveals-dismal-future-no-campaign-offers|title=Report reveals dismal future no campaign offers|date=13 October 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref>
In January 2012, sources close to the prime minister told ''[[The Scotsman]]'' that "a unified tax and benefit system is at the heart of a united country" and that these powers could not be devolved to Scotland after the referendum,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/no-further-tax-powers-for-scotland-says-david-cameron-1-2084365|title=No further tax powers for Scotland, says David Cameron|date=29 January 2012|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> though Liberal Democrat [[Michael Moore (British politician)|Michael Moore]] said in August 2013 that devolution of parts of the welfare budget should be "up for debate".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/moore-welfare-budget-could-be-devolved.21835798|title=Moore: welfare budget could be devolved|date=11 August 2013|accessdate=4 February 2014}}</ref> Labour politician [[Jim Murphy]], a former [[Secretary of State for Scotland]], has argued that he is "fiercely committed" to devolving welfare powers to the Scottish Parliament, but also warned that independence would be disruptive and would not be beneficial.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-26612190 |title=Scottish independence: Labour's Jim Murphy warns of 'disruptive change' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=17 March 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> Scottish Labour's Devolution Commission recommended in March 2014 that some aspects of the welfare state, including housing benefit and attendance allowance, should be devolved.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/labour-reveal-plans-following-no-vote-1-3344020 |title=Labour reveal plans following No vote |work=The Scotsman |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=19 March 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014 |first=Andrew |last=Whitaker}}</ref>
==Responses==
{{seealso|Endorsements in the Scottish independence referendum, 2014}}
===Markets and financial companies===
Sterling fell by almost one cent against the US dollar in a day early in September 2014, due to an opinion poll showing a swing towards the Yes campaign.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://uk.reuters.com/article/2014/09/02/uk-markets-uk-scotland-idUKKBN0GX1SU20140902?type=GCA-ForeignExchange|title=Scottish independence uncertainty drags sterling to five-month lows|agency=Reuters|publisher=|accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref> ''The Financial Times'' reported a few days later that "Asset managers, investors and pension savers are moving billions of pounds out of Scotland" because of fears that Scotland would leave the UK.<ref name="money">{{cite web|url=http://www.ft.com/cms/s/0/c43c9a14-3846-11e4-9fc2-00144feabdc0.html#axzz3CoIKQD2C|title=Investors pull cash ahead of Scots vote |first1=Alistair|last1=Gray|first2=Josephine |last2=Cumbo |first3=Martin|last3=Arnold|work=Financial Times |publisher= |date=9 September 2014 |accessdate=10 September 2014}}</ref> The newspaper also reported that "'exit clauses' are being inserted into commercial property contracts in Scotland to allow buyers to scrap deals or renegotiate prices if voters opt for independence".<ref name="money" />
Financial groups [[The Royal Bank of Scotland]], [[Lloyds Banking Group|Lloyds]], [[Clydesdale Bank]], [[TSB Bank (United Kingdom)|TSB]] and [[Tesco Bank]] announced that they planned to move their registered headquarters from Scotland to England in the event of Scotland voting to leave the UK; most indicated that they had no immediate intention to transfer any jobs.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/business-29151798|title=Scottish independence: RBS confirms London HQ move if Scotland votes Yes |date=11 September 2014|accessdate=11 September 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=httphttp://www.telegraph.co.uk/finance/newsbysector/banksandfinance/11089465/What-banks-are-heading-for-the-exit-door-if-Scotland-votes-for-independence.html|first=James|last=Titcomb|title=What banks are heading for the exit door if Scotland votes for independence?|publisher=The Daily Telegraph|date=11 September 2014|accessdate=11 September 2014}}</ref>
The chief executive of [[Thales]], one of Britain's largest defence suppliers, said that if Scotland became independent that this might raise questions about continued investment from his firm.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.ibtimes.co.uk/scottish-independence-thales-warns-job-investment-cuts-union-break-1464654|title=Scottish Independence: Thales Warns of Job and Investment Cuts on Union Break|work=International Business Times UK|accessdate=17 September 2014}}</ref>
[[Deutsche Bank]] issued a report in the week prior to the referendum and the media reported on 13 September that David Folkerts-Landau, the bank's chief economist, had concluded: "While it may sound simple and costless for a nation to exit a 300 year-old union, nothing could be further from the truth". Folkerts-Landau claimed that the economic prospects after a "yes" vote were "incomprehensible," citing [[Winston Churchill]]’s 1925 [[Monetary reform#Return to the gold standard|Gold Standard]] decision and the actions of America's [[Federal Reserve]] that triggered the [[Great Depression]] of the 1930s, as other mistakes of a similar magnitude. The Swiss [[UBS]] financial services company supported the position of the Deutsche Bank.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Simon Johnson|title=Scotland heading for a 'Great Depression' after a Yes vote|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/11093574/Scotland-heading-for-a-Great-Depression-after-a-Yes-vote.html|accessdate=13 September 2014|work=The Telegraph|date=13 September 2014}}</ref>
===Demonstrations===
A number of [[demonstration (people)|demonstrations]] in support of independence have been co-ordinated since the announcement of the referendum. The [[March and Rally for Scottish Independence]] in September 2012 drew a crowd of between 5,000 and 10,000 people to [[Princes Street Gardens]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-19685144|title=Thousands at Scottish independence rally in Edinburgh|date=22 September 2012|accessdate=22 September 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref> The event was repeated in September 2013; police estimated that over 8,000 people took part in the march, while organisers and the [[Scottish Police Federation]]<ref>{{cite web|url=https://twitter.com/Scotspolfed/status/382171770595205120|title=Twitter / Scotspolfed|date=23 September 2013|accessdate=1 October 2013}}</ref> claimed between 20,000 and 30,000 people took part in the combined march and rally.<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/yes-scotland-the-march-for-independence-is-under-way.1379759038|title=Yes Scotland: thousands show up for independence march|date=21 September 2013|accessdate=22 September 2013}}</ref> The March and Rally was criticised in both 2012 and 2013 for the involvement of groups like the [[Scottish Republican Socialist Movement]]<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/union-flag-burning-group-expelled-from-salmond-rally.18893616|title=Union flag burning group expelled from Salmond rally|date=16 September 2012|accessdate=9 August 2013}}</ref> and [[Vlaamse Volksbeweging]].<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/10325655/Far-Right-group-allied-to-Scottish-separatists.html|title=Far-Right group allied to Scottish separatists|date=22 September 2013|accessdate=22 September 2013|work=The Daily Telegraph|first=Andrew|last=Gilligan}}</ref>
===Online campaigns===
At the launch of the [[Yes Scotland]] campaign in May 2012, Alex Salmond said that the case for independence would be driven by community activism and "online wizardry".<ref>{{cite news|title=Scottish independence: One million Scots urged to sign 'yes' declaration|url=http://www.bbc.com/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-18162832|accessdate=24 August 2014|work=BBC News|date=25 May 2012}}</ref>
The not-for-profit and non-partisan ''What Scotland Thinks'' project has tracked poll and survey data, including online activity, during the referendum campaign. The project is run by ScotCen Social Research, which is part of NatCen, Britain's foremost independent social research agency.<ref>{{cite web|title=About What Scotland Thinks|url=http://whatscotlandthinks.org/about-what-scotland-thinks|website=What Scotland Thinks|publisher=NatCen|accessdate=24 August 2014|year=2014}}</ref> Using data from the Applied Quantitative Methods Network (AQMeN) research centre, the project publishes the social media activity of the two main campaigns, Yes Scotland and [[Better Together (campaign)|Better Together]], by monitoring their respective Facebook and Twitter accounts since August 2013.<ref name="Feb">{{cite web|author1=Dr. Stephen Quinlan and Dr. Mark Shephard|title=Racing Ahead Online: Catching Up Offline?|url=http://blog.whatscotlandthinks.org/2014/02/racing-ahead-online-catching-up-offline/|website=What Scotland Thinks|publisher=NatCen|accessdate=24 August 2014|date=21 February 2014}}</ref> ''What Scotland Thinks'' published a report in February 2014 stating that the Yes Scotland campaign was gaining more Facebook likes. Following the launch of the White Paper on 26 November, the average gap between the two Facebook pages grew from about 8,000 to about 23,000 by February 2014. Analysis of the campaigns' Twitter accounts showed the gap between the campaigns increased from approximately 8,000 in August 2013 to 13,804 in February 2014, in favour of Yes Scotland.<ref name="Feb" /> The project published a further report in June 2014 saying that greater online activity for Yes Scotland had continued.<ref name="June">{{cite web|author1=Dr. Mark Shephard and Dr. Stephen Quinlan|title=Yes Side Maintains Advantage in The Online Campaign Battle|url=http://blog.whatscotlandthinks.org/2014/06/yes-side-maintains-advantage-in-the-online-campaign-battl/?fid=13910&isc=1&did=74be12f3b0fb24f57380980e2ca92f19ecc648da&ctp=article|website=What Scotland Thinks|publisher=NatCen|accessdate=24 August 2014|date=19 June 2014}}</ref>
Greater online activity amongst Yes supporters was confirmed by polling conducted by TNS BMRB in June 2014, which showed that "Yes supporters were three times more likely to have discussed the independence question online." Professor Michael Keating said in April 2014 that the pro-independence movement was visibly stronger and fighting a "ground war", while UK government supporters are fighting an "'air war' of facts and figures".<ref>{{cite web|author1=Michael Keating|title=Foresight: Scotland Decides|url=http://onlinelibrary.wiley.com/store/10.1111/2041-9066.12043/asset/pins12043.pdf;jsessionid=0CA031109889179C8EA04FFAE6F8FD7A.f04t04?v=1&t=hz8i2pma&s=a0220dbc36cf4d6caf744bf1568efe27974d87e5|website=Wiley Online Library|publisher=John Wiley & Sons, Inc|accessdate=24 August 2014|date=April 2014}}</ref>
The launch of online celebrity videos from both viewpoints was reported by the media in mid-July 2014. The "Let's Stay Together – 'Scotland, you're my best friend'" YouTube video was produced by pro-union campaigners who sought to "show Scotland we [the rest of the UK] do care", and featured [[John Barrowman]], [[Ross Kemp]] and [[Eddie Izzard]]. The video was produced by the "Let's Stay Together" campaign that describes itself as "the campaign for everyone in England, Wales and Northern Ireland who doesn't have a vote in the Scottish referendum, but wants to have voice in saying #letsstaytogether" on its YouTube channel.<ref>{{cite web|title=Let's Stay Together|url=https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCSaBGoZMdLPSGGRS96fbLWw|website=Let's Stay Together on YouTube|publisher=Google Inc|accessdate=24 August 2014|date=July 2014}}</ref> The pro-independence video was produced by Yes Scotland and appeared on the campaign's YouTube channel. Titled "✘ on September 18th #voteYes", the video features 32 "well known faces from across the independence movement", including [[David Hayman]], [[Martin Compston]] and [[Stuart Braithwaite]].
The pro-independence organisation [[National Collective]] was identified by the ''Independent'' newspaper as the initiators of an online [[hashtag]] campaign that began in mid-August 2014. Writing for the ''Independent'', Antonia Molloy said that the previous "#IndyReasons" hashtag campaign served as the inspiration for the "#YesBecause" campaign that was observed on the Twitter, Facebook and Vine social media platforms. From 21 August, users were invited to explain their reasons for voting "Yes" and #YesBecause was trending on Twitter after an hour from the launch.<ref>{{cite news|author1=Antonia Molloy|title=Scottish Independence: #YesBecause hashtag shows 'unfiltered reality' of Yes campaign|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/scottish-independence/scottish-independence-yesbecause-hashtag-shows-unfiltered-reality-of-yes-campaign-9683541.html|accessdate=24 August 2014|work=The Independent|date=21 August 2014}}</ref> The [[Canadian Broadcasting Corporation]] (CBC) reported on 22 August that a "#NoBecause" campaign emerged in opposition to the Collective.<ref>{{cite web|title=#YesBecause vs. #NoBecause as Scottish independence referendum looms|url=https://storify.com/cbccommunity/yesbecause-vs-nobecause-as-scottish-independence?utm_campaign=website&utm_source=email&utm_medium=email|website=CBC News on Storify|publisher=Storify|accessdate=24 August 2014|date=22 August 2014}}</ref>
===Debates===
{{details|Salmond & Darling: The Debate|the first televised debate between [[Alex Salmond]] and [[Alistair Darling]]}}
{{details|Scotland Decides: Salmond versus Darling|the second televised debate between Salmond and Darling}}
Debates over the issue of independence have taken place on television, in communities, and within universities and societies since the announcement of the referendum.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/local/dundee/independence-debate-wins-students-over-1.134308 |work=The Courier |publisher=DC Thomson |title=Independence debate wins students over|date=24 September 2013|accessdate=7 October 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yesscotland.net/news/yes-wins-napier-referendum |title=Yes wins Napier referendum |work=www.yesscotland.net |publisher=Yes Scotland |date=15 November 2013|accessdate=16 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.strathstudents.com/indyref |title=Strath Indy Ref – Strathstudents |accessdate=19 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.thecourier.co.uk/news/local/perth-kinross/the-nos-have-it-at-perth-kinross-youth-council-s-independence-question-time-1.156266 |work=The Courier |publisher=DC Thomson |title=The 'Nos' have it at Perth & Kinross Youth Council's independence question time|date=21 November 2013|accessdate=23 November 2013}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.yesscotland.net/news/yes-vote-triumph-scottish-labour-leaders-own-backyard|title=Yes vote triumph in Scottish Labour leader's own backyard |work=www.yesscotland.net |publisher=Yes Scotland|date=29 November 2013|accessdate=2 December 2013}}</ref> The [[STV (TV channel)|STV]] current affairs programme ''[[Scotland Tonight]]'' has televised a series of debates: [[Nicola Sturgeon]] v [[Michael Moore (British politician)|Michael Moore]],<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.stv.tv/politics/225688-nicola-sturgeon-and-michael-moore-clash-in-independence-debate/ |title=Nicola Sturgeon and Michael Moore clash in independence debate |first=Stephen |last=Daisley |work=STV News |date=17 May 2013 |accessdate=7 October 2013}}</ref> Sturgeon v [[Anas Sarwar]],<ref>{{cite web|url=http://thetarge.co.uk/hub-current-affairs/scotland/stv-prepare-for-second-referendum-debate/0093|title=STV prepare for second referendum debate|date=5 September 2013|accessdate=7 October 2013}}</ref> Sturgeon v [[Alistair Carmichael]]<ref>{{cite news|url=http://news.stv.tv/scotland/248078-alistair-carmichael-faces-nicola-sturgeon-in-scotland-tonight-debate/|title=Alistair Carmichael faces Nicola Sturgeon in Scotland Tonight debate |work=STV News |date=11 November 2013 |accessdate=16 November 2013}}</ref> and Sturgeon v [[Johann Lamont]].<ref>{{cite web|url=http://news.stv.tv/politics/263966-scotland-tonight-nicola-sturgeon-and-johann-lamont-to-debate-referendum/|title=STV announces Nicola Sturgeon and Johann Lamont referendum debate |work=STV News |date=13 February 2014|accessdate=13 February 2014}}</ref> On 21 January 2014, BBC Two Scotland broadcast the first in a series of round-table debates, which was filmed in Greenock and chaired by James Cook.<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-25817623|title=Scottish independence: The Referendum Debate |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=21 January 2014|accessdate=22 January 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-25815960 |title=As-it-happened: Scottish independence referendum debate |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC|date=21 January 2014|accessdate=22 January 2014}}</ref>
The Yes campaign repeatedly called for there to be a televised debate between UK Prime Minister David Cameron and First Minister of Scotland Alex Salmond. These calls for a one-on-one debate were dismissed by Cameron<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-24297286|title=Scottish independence: David Cameron will not have TV debate with Alex Salmond|date=27 September 2013|accessdate=7 October 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref><ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-24324681|title=Scottish independence: TV debate row continues|date=29 September 2013|accessdate=7 October 2013|work=BBC News}}</ref> on the basis that the referendum is "for Scots to decide" and the debate should be "between people in Scotland who want to stay, and people in Scotland who want to go".<ref name="bbcdebate">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25607826|title=Scottish independence: Cameron again rejects Salmond TV debate challenge|date=5 January 2014|accessdate=5 January 2014|work=BBC News}}</ref> Calls for such a debate were also supported by former Prime Minister Gordon Brown who said it would be a "good idea".<ref>{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-27779131|title=Scottish independence: MP 'anger' over Brown debate call|work=BBC News |date=10 June 2014 |accessdate=9 September 2014}}</ref> Better Together chairman [[Alistair Darling]] accused Salmond of "running scared" from debating him instead,<ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/alistair-darling-alex-salmond-scared-of-tv-debate-1-3094143 |first=Eddie |last=Barnes |title=Alistair Darling: Alex Salmond scared of TV debate |work=The Scotsman |date=15 September 2013|accessdate=22 October 2013}}</ref> although Sturgeon stated in 2013 that a Salmond–Darling debate would take place at some point.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/news/home-news/sturgeon-salmond-will-debate-independence-with-darling-and-carmichael-before-referend.1382027965 |work=The Herald |publisher=Herald & Times Group |title=Sturgeon: Salmond will have indyref debate with Darling, Carmichael after Cameron snub|date=17 October 2013 |accessdate=5 January 2014}}</ref> Darling refused a public debate with Yes Scotland chairman [[Blair Jenkins]].<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scotland/9568908/Alistair-Darling-Yes-Scotland-chief-is-Alex-Salmond-underling.html|date=27 September 2012 |accessdate=3 March 2014 |work=Daily Telegraph |publisher=Telegraph Media Group |title=Alistair Darling: Yes Scotland chief is Alex Salmond underling |first=Simon |last=Johnson}}</ref> [[UKIP]] leader [[Nigel Farage]] also challenged Salmond to debate, but Farage was dismissed by an SNP spokeswoman as "an irrelevance in Scotland".<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.scotsman.com/news/politics/top-stories/nigel-farage-challenges-salmond-to-tv-debate-1-3376352 |title=Nigel Farage challenges Salmond to TV debate |work=The Scotsman |first=David |last=Maddox |publisher=Johnston Publishing |date=15 April 2014 |accessdate=18 April 2014}}</ref>
After weeks of negotiation, a debate between Salmond and Darling was arranged.<ref name="autogenerated2"/> The programme, titled as ''[[Salmond & Darling: The Debate]]'', was broadcast by [[STV (TV channel)|STV]] on 5 August 2014. A second debate between Salmond and Darling, titled ''[[Scotland Decides: Salmond versus Darling]]'' was shown on [[BBC One Scotland]] (and [[BBC Two]] in the rest of the UK) on 25 August.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28780811 |title=Scottish independence: BBC confirms Salmond-Darling debate |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=13 August 2014 |accessdate=13 August 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28929057 |title=Scottish independence: Salmond and Darling clash in heated TV debate |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=25 August 2014 |accessdate=25 August 2014}}</ref>
===Threats of secession from Scotland===
Both the [[Shetland Islands]] and [[Orkney Islands]] have launched campaigns for autonomy within Scotland entitled "Our Islands, Our Future".<ref name="fp">{{Cite web |url=http://www.foreignpolicy.com/articles/2014/09/16/clod_washed_away_by_sea_europe_less_scottish_independence_referendum_lewis_island |title=If a Clod Be Washed Away by the Sea, Europe Is the Less |last=Geoghegan |first=Peter |work=[[Foreign Policy]] |date=16 September 2014}}</ref>
==Accusations of BBC bias==
During the campaign, there have been allegations by some independence supporters that the [[BBC]]—the UK's national broadcaster—is biased against Scottish independence.<ref name="BBCIndy" />
In January 2014, a year-long academic study by researchers at the [[University of the West of Scotland]] found that both BBC and STV coverage had been favouring the No campaign.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/politics/joan-mcalpine-tv-bosses-must-3042339 |title=Opinion: Joan McAlpine: TV bosses must act on findings of study that show indy coverage isn't the balanced affair it should be |first=Joan |last=McAlpine |work=[[Daily Record (Scotland)|Daily Record]] |date=21 January 2014 |accessdate=16 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web |url=http://www.fifenewsonline.co.uk/news/bbc-accused-of-anti-independence-bias-by-academic-report |title=BBC Accused of Anti-Independence Bias by Academic Report |work=Fife News Online |date=24 January 2014 |accessdate=16 September 2014}}</ref><ref>Robertson, John. [https://www.opendemocracy.net/ourkingdom/john-robertson/bbc-bias-and-scots-referendum-new-report BBC bias and the Scots referendum - new report]. OpenDemocracy. 21 February 2014.</ref> In March, [[BBC Scotland]] chiefs appeared before a Scottish Parliament committee to face questions from MSPs about the broadcaster's coverage. BBC Scotland Head, Ken McQuarrie, rejected the study's conclusions.<ref>{{cite web|title=Official Report: Education and Culture Committee 11 March 2014|url=http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/28862.aspx?r=9013|publisher=Scottish Parliament|accessdate=16 September 2014|date=2014-03-11}}</ref>
On 29 June, hundreds joined a demonstration outside the BBC Scotland [[BBC Pacific Quay|headquarters]] in Glasgow in protest at the BBC's alleged bias.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.heraldscotland.com/politics/referendum-news/pro-independence-campaigners-protest-outside-bbc-studios.24620136 |first=Magnus |last=Gardham |title=Pro-independence campaigners protest outside BBC studios |work=Herald Scotland |date=30 June 2014|accessdate=17 September 2014}}</ref><ref>{{cite web|url=http://www.thedrum.com/news/2014/06/30/hundreds-protesters-gather-over-ongoing-bbc-bias-row-scottish-independence|title="Hundreds of protesters gather over ongoing 'BBC bias' row in Scottish independence referendum coverage"|work=The Drum|accessdate=17 September 2014}}</ref> On 14 September, four days before the vote, thousands took part in a protest march and rally at the BBC Scotland headquarters, accusing the BBC of broadcasting pro-Union "propaganda" and "lies".<ref name="BBCIndy" /> They also called for the sacking of BBC political editor [[Nick Robinson]].<ref name="BBCIndy" /> A petition demanding an independent inquiry into allegations of BBC bias—on the [[38 Degrees]] website—had attracted 70,000 signatures.<ref name="BBCIndy" /> In an interview for the ''Sunday Herald'', Scottish First Minister [[Alex Salmond]] said he believed the BBC had been unconsciously biased against independence.<ref name="BBCIndy" /> English journalist [[Paul Mason (journalist)|Paul Mason]] commented: "Not since Iraq have I seen BBC News working at propaganda strength like this".<ref name="BBCIndy">{{cite web|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/media/bbc-scotland-protests-scottish-independence-referendum-coverage-institutionally-biased-salmond-claims-9732095.html |title=Scottish independence: BBC Scotland's referendum coverage 'institutionally biased', Alex Salmond claims |first=Chris |last=Green |work=The Independent |date=14 September 2014 |accessdate=16 September 2014}}</ref> The BBC replied that "Our coverage of the referendum story is fair and impartial in line with the editorial guidelines".<ref>{{cite web|url=http://rt.com/uk/187344-bbc-scottish-independence-bias/ |title=BBC accused of anti-independence bias after editing out Salmond’s reply to ‘bank exodus’ question |work=RT (TV network) |date=12 September 2014 |accessdate=16 September 2014}}</ref>
==Opinion polling==
{{Main|Opinion polling for the Scottish independence referendum, 2014}}
[[File:Scottish independence polls graphic.svg|thumb|350px|Results of polls to 11 Sep 2014]]
Professor [[John Curtice]] stated in January 2012 that polling showed support for independence at between 32%–38% of the Scottish population, a slight decline from 2007, when the SNP first formed the Scottish government.<ref name="poll research" /> By 2012, there had been no poll evidence of majority support for independence, although the share "vehemently opposed to independence" had declined.<ref name="poll research">{{cite news|url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-politics-16473265|title=Q&A: Scottish independence row|work=BBC News|publisher=BBC|date=17 January 2012|accessdate=19 January 2012}}</ref> According to Curtice, the polls were remarkably stable during most of 2013, with the "no" camp leading by an average of 50% to 33% for "yes" with a year to go.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-24124631 |title=Scottish independence: What have the polls been saying? |first=John |last=Curtice |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=18 September 2013 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> Polling expert [[Nate Silver]] said in 2013 that the yes campaign had "virtually no chance" of winning the referendum.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.theguardian.com/politics/2013/aug/13/nate-silver-scottish-independence-referendum |title=Scottish independence campaign has almost no chance, says Nate Silver |first=Charlotte |last=Higgins |work=The Guardian |publisher=Guardian News and Media Limited |date=13 August 2013 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref>
The polls tightened after the release of the Scottish government white paper on independence, with an average of 5 polls in December 2013 and January 2014 giving 39% yes and 61% no, once 'don't knows' had been excluded.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-25917726 |title=Scottish independence: Are referendum polls on the move? |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=27 January 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014}}</ref> The polls tightened further after the [[Chancellor of the Exchequer]], [[George Osborne]], stated in February that the UK government was opposed to a currency union; the average yes support increased to 43%, once 'don't knows' had been excluded.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blog.whatscotlandthinks.org/2014/03/yougov-reports-its-highest-yes-vote-yet/ |title=YouGov Reports Its Highest Yes Vote Yet |work=www.whatscotlandthinks.org |publisher=ScotCen Social Research |date=26 March 2014 |accessdate=15 April 2014 |first=John |last=Curtice}}</ref> There was little movement in the following months, with the average continuing to show 43% yes and 57% no (excluding don't knows) in July 2014<ref>{{cite web |url=http://blog.whatscotlandthinks.org/2014/07/tns-bmrb-portray-a-referendum-campaign-becalmed/ |title=TNS BMRB Portray a Referendum Campaign Becalmed |first=John |last=Curtice |work=www.whatscotlandthinks.org |publisher=ScotCen Social Research |date=7 July 2014 |accessdate=7 July 2014 }}</ref> and August 2014.<ref name = "aug 2014 summary">{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-28921754 |title=Scottish independence: 'Invaluable second chance' for Alex Salmond |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |first=John |last=Curtice |date=25 August 2014 |accessdate=25 August 2014}}</ref> A poll conducted by YouGov in early September showed a closer race, with the average shares moving to 45% and 55%.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-29037323 |title=Scottish independence: Referendum race 'may have got tighter' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=2 September 2014 |accessdate=2 September 2014 |first=John |last=Curtice}}</ref> On 6 September a YouGov poll gave those in favour 47% versus 45% for those against; excluding those undecided, the figures were 51% and 49%, respectively.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-29096458 |title=Scottish independence: Vote 'will go to the wire' |work=BBC News |publisher=BBC |date=7 September 2014 |accessdate=7 September 2014 |first=|last=}}</ref> Survation carried out a poll for the ''Daily Record'' where 1000 Scots were contacted by landline, published on 10 September, and the results suggested that 53% might vote No, when excluding the undecided.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/independence-referendum-exclusive-daily-record-4196976 |title=Independence referendum: Exclusive Daily Record survey shows No campaign with six point lead |work=Daily Record |date=10 September 2014 |accessdate=10 September 2014 |first=Dave |last=Clegg}}</ref> The campaign to keep Scotland in the United Kingdom took an eight-point lead on September 13 with 54% vs. 46% per cent, according to the poll by Survation.<ref>{{cite news |url=http://www.telegraph.co.uk/news/uknews/scottish-independence/11094230/Scottish-independence-poll-gives-Unionists-eight-point-lead.html |title=Scottish independence: poll gives Unionists eight-point lead |work=Telegraph |date=14 September 2014 |accessdate=14 September 2014 }}</ref>
There is disagreement between the pollsters as to the state of public opinion.<ref name = "aug 2014 summary"/><ref name = "curtice"/> Curtice has observed that ICM, Panelbase and Survation show higher yes support and TNS BMRB, YouGov and Ipsos Mori show less support for independence.<ref name = "aug 2014 summary"/><ref name = "curtice">{{cite news |url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/scottish-independence-depending-on-the-pollster-it-looks-like-a-photo-finish-9284634.html |title=Scottish independence: Depending on the pollster, it looks like a photo finish |work=The Independent |publisher= |first=John |last=Curtice |date=24 April 2014 |accessdate=25 April 2014}}</ref> [[Peter Kellner]], the president of YouGov, noted in July 2014 that the average results for YouGov and TNS BMRB showed 41% support for independence (excluding don't knows), whereas ICM, Panelbase and Survation showed 45 or 46% support.<ref name = "kellner"/> Kellner said he believed the latter pollsters were overstating support for independence due to some SNP supporters being "passing nationalists" who had supported other parties (particularly Labour) in other elections.<ref name = "kellner">{{cite web |url=http://yougov.co.uk/news/2014/07/01/why-do-polls-scotland-vary-so-much/ |title=Why do the polls in Scotland vary so much? |work=www.yougov.co.uk |publisher= |date=1 July 2014 |accessdate=7 July 2014}}</ref> Patrick Briône, director of research for Survation, said in response that adjusting for these SNP ex-Labour voters would require too much upweighting of these voters in their sample.<ref>{{cite web |url=http://survation.com/response-to-yesterdays-times-yougov-articles-and-yougovs-published-research-about-survations-scottish-independence-methodology/ |title=Response To Yesterday's Times, YouGov Articles and YouGov's published research about Survation's Scottish Independence Methodology |work=www.survation.com |publisher= |date=3 July 2014 |accessdate=7 July 2014}}</ref>
==Result==
<!--
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| width=50% style="background-color: #FF3399;" | No :<br /> ''0'' ''''''
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The result will be announced by the Chief Counting Officer. The Scottish Independence Referendum Bill identifies the Convener of the Electoral Management Board for Scotland (EMB) as Chief Counting Officer for the referendum.<ref name="ccoa">[http://www.electionsscotland.info/emb/download/downloads/id/52/count_timing_for_2014_scottish_independence_referendum Report of 30 August 2013: Scottish Independence Referendum: The Chief Counting Officer’s Approach], Accessed 14 September 2014</ref> The Chief Counting Officer is Mary Pitcaithly, OBE.<ref name="hfpss">[http://www.aberdeencity.gov.uk/nmsruntime/saveasdialog.asp?lID=58768&sID=25275 Handbook for polling station staff], Accessed 14 September 2014</ref> She is supported by a Counting Officer in each of the [[Council areas of Scotland|32 local authority areas of Scotland]].<ref name="hfpss"/> Each Counting Officer has a referendum team for that area, which includes:
* Electoral Registration Officers. They compile and maintain the electoral register and lists of postal and proxy voters.<ref name="hfpss"/>
* Presiding Officers (one per polling place).<ref name="hfpss"/> They are responsible for the management of the polling place overall.
* Poll Clerks.<ref name="hfpss"/> They assist the Presiding Officer at their polling place.
* Polling Station Inspectors (optional).<ref name="hfpss"/> They tour the area polling stations on the day.
<!--
===By area===
{| class="wikitable sortable" style="text-align:right"
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|[[City of Aberdeen|Aberdeen City]]
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|[[Aberdeenshire (council area)|Aberdeenshire]]
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|[[Angus]]
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|[[Argyll and Bute]]
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|[[Clackmannanshire]]
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|[[Dumfries and Galloway]]
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|[[City of Dundee|Dundee City]]
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|[[East Ayrshire]]
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|[[East Dunbartonshire]]
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|[[East Lothian]]
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|[[East Renfrewshire]]
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|[[City of Edinburgh]]
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|[[Falkirk (council area)|Falkirk]]
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|[[Fife]]
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|[[Glasgow|Glasgow City]]
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|[[Highland (council area)|Highland]]
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|[[Inverclyde]]
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|[[Midlothian]]
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|[[Moray]]
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|[[North Ayrshire]]
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|[[North Lanarkshire]]
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|[[Perth and Kinross]]
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|-
|[[Renfrewshire]]
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|[[Scottish Borders]]
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|[[South Ayrshire]]
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|[[South Lanarkshire]]
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|[[Stirling (council area)|Stirling]]
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|[[West Dunbartonshire]]
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|[[West Lothian]]
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|[[Outer Hebrides|Na h-Eileanan Siar]]
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|[[Orkney Islands]]
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|[[Shetland Islands]]
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|}
-->
==See also==
{{portal|Scotland|British politics|2010s}}
* [[Catalan self-determination referendum]]
* [[Constitution of the United Kingdom]]
* [[Endorsements in the Scottish independence referendum, 2014]]
* [[History of Scottish devolution]]
* [[History of the Scottish National Party]]
* [[Politics of the United Kingdom]]
==References==
{{Reflist|30em|refs=
<ref name=Manifesto12Apr2007>{{cite web|url=http://www.thescottishstandard.net/snp-manifesto-2007.pdf|title=Manifesto 2007|date=12 April 2007|publisher=Scottish National Party|pages=8, 15|accessdate=11 September 2009}}</ref>
<ref name=DraftBill2007>{{cite web
|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2007/08/13103747/10
|title=Annex B Draft Referendum (Scotland) Bill
|publisher=[[Scottish Government]]
|work=Official website, Publications > 2007 > August > Choosing Scotland's Future: A National Conversatio > Part 10
|date=13 August 2009
|accessdate=10 September 2009
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5jgh02AMe
|archivedate=10 September 2009
}}</ref>
<ref name=Times3Sep09>{{cite news
|url=http://www.timesonline.co.uk/tol/news/uk/scotland/article6820542.ece
|title=Salmond to push ahead with referendum Bill
|publisher=The Times
|date=3 September 2009
|accessdate=10 September 2009
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5jgoTKBiL
|archivedate=10 September 2009
| location=London
| first=Angus
| last=MacLeod
}}</ref>
<ref name=Independent30Nov09SNPReveals>{{cite news
|url=http://www.independent.co.uk/news/uk/politics/snp-reveals-vision-for-independence-referendum-1831469.html
|title=SNP reveals vision for independence referendum
|publisher=The Independent
|date=30 November 2009
|accessdate=30 November 2009
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5lfqjoj1A
|archivedate=30 November 2009
| location=London
| first=Joe
| last=Quinn
}}</ref>
<ref name=ScottishGovernment30Nov09NewsYSYV>{{cite web
|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2009/11/27154409
|title=Your Scotland, Your Voice
|publisher=Scottish Government
|work=www.scotland.gov.uk > News > News Releases > 2009 > November > YSYV
|date=30 November 2009
|accessdate=30 November 2009
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5lfsTqyxt
|archivedate=30 November 2009
}}</ref>
<ref name=BBCQnA3Sep09>{{cite news
|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/8235428.stm
|title=Q&A: Independence referendum
|publisher=BBC News
|date=3 September 2009
|accessdate=10 September 2009
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5jgkwdqHv
|archivedate=10 September 2009
| first=Andrew
| last=Black
}}</ref>
<ref name=BBC25Feb2010Published>{{cite news
|url=http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/scotland/8535946.stm
|title=Scottish independence referendum plans published
|publisher=BBC News
|date=25 February 2010
|accessdate=25 February 2010
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5no5PTJqS
|archivedate=25 February 2010
}}</ref>
<ref name=ScottishGovernmentNews25Feb2010ReferendumConsultation>{{cite web
|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2010/02/24170252
|title=Referendum consultation
|publisher=Scottish Government
|work=www.scotland.gov.uk > News > News Releases > 2010 > February > referendum
|date=25 February 2010
|accessdate=25 February 2010
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5no62MiL0
|archivedate=25 February 2010
}}</ref>
<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultationPaper25Feb2010>{{cite web
|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/Doc/303348/0095138.pdf
|title=Scotland's Future: Draft Referendum (Scotland) Bill Consultation Paper
|publisher=Scottish Government
|work=www.scotland.gov.uk > Publications > 2010 > February > Scotland's Future: Draft Referendum (Scotland) Bil > PDF 1
|format=PDF
|date=25 February 2010
|accessdate=25 February 2010
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5no62m3yB
|archivedate=25 February 2010
}}</ref>
<ref name=ScottishGovernmentReferendumBillConsultation25Feb2010>{{cite web
|url=http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Topics/Government/Elections/rbc/
|title=Draft Referendum (Scotland) Bill Consultation
|publisher=Scottish Government
|work=www.scotland.gov.uk > Topics > Public Sector > Elections > Referendum Bill Consultation
|date=n.d.|accessdate=25 February 2010
|archiveurl=http://www.webcitation.org/5no63ChPc
|archivedate=25 February 2010
}}</ref>
}}
==External links==
{{wikinews|Scotland sets date for referendum}}
* [http://www.scotreferendum.com/ Scottish Government Referendum 2014 site]
* [https://www.youdecide2014.uk/ UK Government Referendum 2014 site]
* [http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/parliamentarybusiness/Bills/61076.aspx Scottish Independence Referendum Bill] from the Scottish Parliament
* [http://cle.ens-lyon.fr/anglais/scotland-s-hour-of-choice-237813.kjsp?RH=CDL_ANG000000 Scotland’s Hour of Choice] an article by Alistair Cole
* {{UK-LEG|title=Scottish Independence Referendum Act 2013}}
* [http://www.scotlanddecides.com Scotland Decides] on [[stv.tv]]
* [http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-scotland-scotland-politics-18364699 BBC Q&A]
* [http://www.yesscotland.net/ Yes Scotland, official campaign for a Yes vote]
* [http://bettertogether.net/ Better Together, official campaign for a No vote]
* [http://www.futureukandscotland.ac.uk/guidetothedebate/ ESRC Debate Guide]
* [http://www.better-together-scotland.com/ List of registered campaigners in the Scottish Independence Referendum]
{{Scottish independence referendum, 2014}}
{{Scottish elections}}
[[Category:2014 elections in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:2014 in Scotland]]
[[Category:2014 referendums]]
[[Category:Future referendums]]
[[Category:Home rule in the United Kingdom]]
[[Category:Independence referendums]]
[[Category:Proposed laws of Scotland|Independence referendum]]
[[Category:Referendums in Scotland|Independence referendum]]
[[Category:Scottish independence movement|Referendum]]
[[Category:Scottish independence referendum, 2014| ]]' |
