Independence Requiem?

Now is the time for change, if we don't deliver real power to the Scottish people there will be a renewed call for independence. On the other side, if real power is given to the Scots the rest of the UK will become increasingly disgruntled.

David Cameron's first act was to promise less power for Scotland in Westminster. An alarming misunderstanding of the issues or an immature attempt at party politics when real statesmanship is needed. Labour need to stop ignoring their electorate if they wish to move forward.

The West Lothian question is best answered by giving real power to all UK regions, whatever is given to Scotland should also be given to Wales, Northern Ireland and ideally all regions of England, but at least to England as a whole. Westminster itself then needs to be fully rethought in the face of devolution. The biggest decision, as a follow on from devolution and The West Lothian question, is should Westminster be proportionally representative or continue as a chamber of local representatives.

The independence vote was a just the the start the real debate that should now take place. If we don't find the right answers, and ask the right questions we will open up the independence debate again. If we don't get this right Scotland will probably not give us another chance.