Unique Facts Shaping Scottish Politics

By Colette Foreman


Scotland has been part of the United Kingdom since 1707. This means that Westminster has administered Edinburgh until recent years when devolution gave way to partial self governance. Other countries that have been under the United Kingdom are Wales and North Ireland. Scottish politics seems to be taking a new turn with the impending referendum on separation.

59 members of parliament represent Scotland in London. There is a local parliament in Edinburgh with 129 members. The issues directed from London include pension, defense, social security, fiscal economy, monetary policy, medical ethics and foreign affairs. The government in Edinburgh presides over local government, environment, justice, health, agriculture and education. Edinburgh is under the First Minister who is the leader of any party with majority in parliament.

Pro-independent campaigners want Edinburgh to have full control over all its issues. The vote will be taken on September 18. The issues that will shape the debate including health care, natural resources, national UK debt and the currency of an independent Scotland. BBC has featured prominently in debates because of its symbolism as a national asset and its reliability as an employer. There are fears that Scots will not enjoy the preference they currently do if they leave the union.

A common currency is considered a stopgap measure since Scotland will not have control. Groups advocating for independence want a separate currency and fiscal policy. Adopting the pound would only be for the short term until Scotland settles as an independent state.

Reports from the gas industry indicate that Scottish reserves are dwindling. This will force Edinburgh to buy natural gas from London at a commercial price. The spiral effect is likely to bring down the economy in Edinburgh. The reserves are estimated to run out in 15 years which raises concerns over the future of natural gas supply and prices.

Fiscal independence is an emotive issue among voters and is resurfacing in almost every debate. However, an offshoot of the debate involves sharing of debts. The issue is how much debt independent Scotland will have to pay. This has a huge impact on the ability of an independent Scotland to survive. Scots are fearful that independence will slow down growth rather than be an advantage to them.

United Kingdom is implementing a raft of measures within its healthcare system. They include alleged privatization that is a subject of contention. Pro-separation campaigners say this is going to increase the cost. The UK administration insists that the new system gives individuals a choice and the freedom to get customized packages. Over 1 billion pounds are pumped into the Scottish health care system annually.

BBC remains a national symbol of the United Kingdom. A split is poised to make it expensive to watch some prime programs. Separation takes the privilege of equal opportunities enjoyed by all citizens of the UK. Some channels will only be available on pay TV packages.

Full details on the impact of separation were expected from London but are yet to be released. The voting masses are left to rely on politicians for information. A clear picture will only be revealed after figures for the September 18th referendum have been released.




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