The future of the United Kingdom is endangered as much by unionists as it is by nationalists because of a misconception of the 314-year-old Union itself, according to a new book* by this author. It explores the complex history of union in these islands and the many varieties of unionism and the meanings given to the union. There is, it argues, not just one union or one … [Read more...] about Fractured Union
independence
SNP tensions: causes and effects
SNP divisions go well beyond healthy debate. This is not normal for a party likely to improve on its historic best electoral performance. There is a danger that it will undermine its performance in May but more likely damage its chances of winning an independence referendum that might follow. There are many causes. One dimensional interpretations of the party’s troubles … [Read more...] about SNP tensions: causes and effects
GERS and a new start
The GERS report shows an estimated net fiscal balance (including a geographical share of North Sea oil) in Scotland of -£15.1 bn or –8.6% of Scottish GDP for 2019-20. This compares with a UK net fiscal balance of –2.5% of UK GDP.The net fiscal balance as a share of GDP has worsened for both Scotland and the UK in 2019-20, by 0.6 percentage points for the UK and 1.2 percentage … [Read more...] about GERS and a new start
Independence or bust
It would be worse than a mistake, a crime, to hazard that (freedom and security) for an independence that can bring nothing better. (John Lloyd book*)The case for the Union depends on the increasingly fanciful notion that a Labour government that's truly progressive (in Scottish terms) could get elected south of the border and stay in power long enough to make fundamental … [Read more...] about Independence or bust
Salmond, the SNP and Brexit
The acquittal of Alex Salmond after two years, during which he faced accusations of serious sexual assault, is the most important court judgement affecting contemporary British politics in decades. Normally when prosecutors in England or Scotland put a high profile politician on trial, they are confident of securing a verdict that relies as much on a generalised public and … [Read more...] about Salmond, the SNP and Brexit