Archive for November, 2015
For a second independence referendum to result in a Yes, the pro-independence case must be framed around empirical – rather than emotive – arguments
The referendum on Scottish independence in 2014 was the culmination of a life’s work for Alex Salmond, who had beaten the drum first for devolution, and then for independence since the 1970’s as a campaigner, MP, MSP, and finally as First Minister for Scotland. Andrew Scott Crines looks at the way Salmond used – and uses – language and rhetoric, both in support of independence but also in support of his other political passions. He concludes that the former First Minister’s approach of justifying independence through civil nationalism should be supplanted by one which emphasises empirical facts.
Scottish Labour’s move towards great autonomy raises difficult questions, but its logic is inescapable
Kezia Dugdale recently attracted attention for proposing that the party she leads, the Scottish Labour Party, should have a far greater degree of autonomy from the London-based British Labour Party. Eric Shaw looks through the ramifications, arguing that though the move raises questions, its logic is entirely inescapable given the SNP’s current dominance.
The new top-up powers for Scotland on welfare represent the advent of ‘defensive devolution’
There is a lively debate in Scotland over the extent of the Scottish government’s new powers over welfare, with the Scotland Bill in Westminster being strengthened by Government amendments. Gavin Kelly discusses the political implications of the move, and describes the new arrangement as representing ‘defensive devolution’.
Recent events regarding ‘stop and search’ in Scotland should deliver some sharp lessons in political accountability
The rise and recent fall of mass stop and search in Scotland is an extraordinary phenomenon. Here, Dr Kath Murray examines the implications for human rights and argues that recent events in Scotland should deliver some sharp lessons in political accountability.
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