Demand for Scottish Independence

Subject : International Relations

Section: Msc

Concept :

Recently, the British Prime Minister rejected a call from the new First Minister of Scotland, Humza Yousaf, to hold a second referendum for Scotland’s independence from the U.K.

Historical background

The independent Kingdom of Scotland was formed in the 9th century and it indulged in various wars to remain independent from the Kingdom of England.
The two kingdoms, however in 1603, signed a personal union agreement and were ruled by the same monarchs.
Further, in 1707, both British as well as Scottish Parliaments enacted the Acts of Union to enter into a political union under the name of Great Britain on account of various economic and political vulnerabilities prevailing on both sides.
Despite Scotland retaining some of its decision-making powers, it however failed to get equal representation in the united Parliament which gave rise to various cultural and political differences.
Also, the demands for self-governance started to become more prevalent which led to two referendums in 1979 and 1997 and the subsequent formation of a Parliament of Scotland in 1999.
This newly devolved Parliament of Scotland was empowered to formulate legislations on issues like health, transport, education, etc. whereas the powers to legislate on issues such as defence, currency, trade, and foreign policy were reserved.
The latest referendum for Scottish independence was held in 2014, wherein 55% of the Scottish population voted in favour of the union whereas 45% voted to walk out.

What is the main case for independence?

Those who support independence believe Scotland “would be richer” if it breaks from England.
Proponents of independence want Scotland to make its own decisions about how resources are controlled and money is invested.
Rather than investing billions of pounds in nuclear weapons, for example, they would focus on things like childcare or programs to retain talent and encourage young Scots to stay.
Brexit :
In Brexit referendum a clear majority of Scots voted ‘Remain’. Yet they were forced to leave.
So the issue of self-determination has been brought back to the political agenda.

Tools of Direct Democracy

Referendum – procedure in which a proposed legislation is referred to the electorate for acceptance through direct voting.
Initiative – method by means of which the people can propose a bill to the legislature for enactment.
Recall – way for voters to remove a representative or an officer before the expiry of his/her term, when he fails to discharge his duties properly.
Plebiscite – method of obtaining the opinion of people on any issue of public importance. It is generally used to solve territorial disputes.