I am man who considers himself British (grandmother from Belfast married an Anglo Scot, a surname that cleary marks me with Welsh connections, but considered to be English on Grandmothers side) so I would submit that I am not particualrly partisan in this matter, although I would declare an interest that I would hate to see the break up of the Union having spent 24 years protecting it.
To go or not to go, its all about money, apparently Scotland represents 9% of the union, therefore 9% of the National debt would be inherited (Ive no idea how much - any one want to let me know), Mr Salmond has stated he wants 9% of the Army/Navy/Airforce, which comes with 9% of the cost (again anyone know the defence budget?).
Scotland has no Diplomatic service (although some career diplomats will transfer (the quality of which MAY be subject to scrutiny)). There would be a need to have an Embassy or some such like in every country in the world, each with its own staff (cost - approx 9% of the UKs budget?), Currency would be - well the Scottish pound, no issues there but the 'markets' as we all know do not have any sympathy for currencies, they look at the hard facts and would let the Scots £ float to its real level, up or down, but would Mr Salmond let the Eng £ be legal tender in Scotland and vicerversa - I think not?
Finally there are several national civil service HQ's located in Scotland (student loans and others I believe), they would have to move south over the border - and the jobs with them! How much money does Fass Lane put into the economy. All gone!.
Its all about money, and I'm sorry but as I understand it Scotland doesnt have enough to support all of this, yes I know the North sea has untold riches - well not really, A. its nearly all gone now, and B. most of the 'assets' would fall on the wrong side of the line of the new border (international law dictates that the new sea border follows the line of the land based border - check and you'll see the new border would run parallel with the Dundee/Aberdeen coast line). A lot of sea to the right of the new border.
I stand braced for both barrels of dogs abuse, but please remember dont shoot the messenger.
But do remeber this: If you can read this, thank your teachers. If you are reading it in English, then thank your soldiers. (Another killed recently whilst trying to rescue a wounded Afghan civillian, we are not worthy of having them serve us - but hey thats another thread.)
Both barrels please.
