Scotland's Future: Independence or United Kingdom Membership?

Scotland is not a thump of England. It is a fully represented part of the Parliament of the United Kingdom (UK). Scotland receives more money per head from Parliament than any other part of the UK.

Despite the aspirations for independence, the voters of Scotland rejected this option. The 2014 Scottish independence referendum results firmly support this. According to the recorded votes, a significant number chose to remain part of the UK.

The 2014 Scottish Independence Referendum Results

The referendum was open only to Scottish voters living in Scotland, not UK-wide, and the results show:

Yes: 1,617,989 votes, 44.70% No: 2,001,926 votes, 55.30% This turnout significantly outstripped any other UK election, including General Elections.

Political Union and Parliamentary Representation

Scotland formed a political union with England in 1708. Today, Scotland is a member of the United Kingdom, along with England, Wales, and Northern Ireland. Each has members of the UK parliament in proportion to their population size. Scotland also has its own Scottish parliament, responsible for most of its internal affairs.

Public Sentiment and Future Prospects

The public sentiment in support of remaining in the Union remains strong. The opposition to independence is significant in the UK. The current underlying sentiment is that being part of the UK still offers numerous advantages.

Over the next few years, if the UK Government can improve the economy and further strengthen devolution, making the UK the more independent in all things, seceding from the UK may be seen as unnecessary and even foolish. The old saying, "We are stronger together," holds true.

Comparison with Other Regions

Considering the aspirations of other regions for independence, such as California, Texas, Catalonia, Bavaria, and Quebec, it is worth noting that Scotland's integration into the UK has immensely benefited the country over the past 300 years. In 1707, Scotland was bankrupt with most of the population illiterate and living in penury. However, over the next 300 years, Scotland has benefited from being part of a nation that owned the British Empire and had the most impressive track record of technological innovation.

The question remains: will Scotland ever achieve its independence or will it remain a stable and prosperous member of the United Kingdom?