Working Towards Scottish Independence

I was recently asked what I thought about Scottish independence, and I've always been quite keen on the idea. Back in 2014, during the last referendum, I was hopeful too. However, just as I do now, I had concerns about the lack of a clear, detailed plan for achieving independence. I was hoping to see a more comprehensive strategy. I don't recall encountering anything beyond the suggestion of relying on the oil industry to support our economy and the goal of joining the EU—ironically, a point used by the Better Together campaign as an argument for staying in the UK.

Since 2014, and especially after Brexit in 2016, we've faced numerous issues due to the UK leaving the EU and severing ties with our largest trading partner. If Scotland were to leave the UK, I fear we’d encounter similar problems. England, being our biggest trading partner, would become more challenging to trade with, creating new barriers. We couldn't join the EU immediately, so there would be an uncomfortable adjustment period. That’s understandable, but we need leaders to clearly define and acknowledge the inevitable challenges of leaving the UK.

Looking ahead, the 2024 election might bring Labour to power, potentially devolving more powers to regions across the UK, including Scotland. This could mean some powers currently held by Holyrood might be further devolved to regions within Scotland. This shift could improve how public services are managed locally, but it might also be seen as a strategic move by Labour to dilute the push for independence.

Despite my belief that the UK is stronger together—a sentiment that feels a bit uncomfortable to admit—the reality is that the UK hasn't truly been working together for a long time. The South East is predominantly focused on itself. If Scotland were to split from the UK, the same neglect of regions outside the capital would likely continue. The areas north of Watford often get attention only around election time, with promises quickly forgotten afterward. Think "leveling up" or "High Speed Rail 2." For Scotland to succeed as an independent country, we need to prove we can build a strong, self-sufficient nation. This requires clear, actionable plans and a readiness to endure some tough times.

What I want to see is a concrete plan, enacted before another referendum. Let's work on improving life in Scotland now, leveraging the devolved powers we already have. We need to focus on:

• Education
• Substance misuse
• Mental health
• The NHS
• Public services & infrastructure

I envision a Scotland where the disparity between the rich and poor is minimal, with a thriving middle class and improved living standards for the majority of citizens. Let's create a country that people from England, Wales, and Northern Ireland aspire to move to because it’s better than their own locales.

With our current devolved powers, and potentially more to come under Labour, we should make tangible progress before considering independence. I want to see us make strides forward so that we can believe Scotland truly has the will and the means to exist as an independent country.