On Scottish independence and the coming referendum

On the 26^th of September the William Bright Society and sixth form were pleased to welcome two distinguished speakers to give a debate on a potential separation of Scotland from the Union. Rosanna Cunningham, MSP for Perthshire South and Kinross-shire, represented the SNP and the view that in the upcoming referendum the people of Scotland should vote for national independence. Her counterpart from the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party was Liz Smith, a list MSP for our area. Perhaps there was a touch of familiarity to this contest for our two guests. Both speakers have regularly run against one another, notably in the 2001 general election where Ms Cunningham narrowly held her seat by a margin of only 48 votes.

Ms Cunningham was the first to speak. In her view it was 'not a question of "Why independence?" but instead "Why union?". Her arguments conformed to the nationalist format; she talked of the irregularity of our constitutional position, and of her desire for a fully sovereign Scotland. She likened the position of Scotland to her home country of Australia, drawing on that country's moves to independence as an example for Scotland to follow. From this she was able to create the analogy of a parent and child, with Scotland a child approaching maturity. She concluded her oration with the words 'No decision for us, about us without us'.

Liz Smith in turn gave her responses. She deftly rebutted many of the points raised by Ms Cunningham, including her assertion that Scottish independence had overwhelming popular support. Elizabeth Smith focused on economic weakness of a separate Scotland and the implications that this would have on businesses around the UK. Furthering this she added that an independent Scotland would have to find £13 billion to fund the social security needs of the population. She refuted claims by Ms Cunningham that Scottish taxpayers currently subsidise largesse south of the border, making it plain that an independent Scotland would have a vastly increased tax burden. Finally she highlighted the defence implications inherent within any proposal for a separate Scotland. Whatever the outcome, in her mind, a separate Scotland could not have the influence it enjoys as part of the United Kingdom.

After the main debate had been concluded, the motion was passed over to the floor. Both speeches and questions were offered by an audience that clearly engaged with the subject matter. I think both speakers were impressed by the insightful questions asked and clear high level of knowledge possessed by many of the pupils in attendance. (I am proud to say that my own little speech was given hearty applause, and to my personal delight praised as being 'Churchillian' by Liz Smith). Throughout this period our MSPs continued to engage with one another; sparring over both the economy and the exact wording of the referendum question. Sandy McCleery, a specialist on the 79 faction within the SNP, gave an appropriate word of thanks for what had been a superb evening enjoyed by even the apathetic and the apolitical.

To cap off what had already been an exceptional William Bright Society meeting, a select few were allowed to take supper with the Warden and our guest MSPs. It was an opportunity for our politicians to show a more personable side, as well as chance to discuss all the key issues in a less combative format. As an aside, I think we all appreciated the chance to learn a little more about the SCUP leadership contest and the potential formation of a new centre-right party under the leadership of Murdo Fraser. Liz Smith was able to give us a privileged insight into this on account of her role as Murdo's campaign manager. After a very pleasant supper, we thanked both our speakers and retired to our Houses to reflect upon the evening's debate. We were very glad that were able to take part in what is perhaps the most pressing political issue we face, and were are indebted to all those who help make the debate such a gratifying experience.

Marcus Buist

Patchell's Lower Sixth.