Letters to the editor

Kirk remains neutral on independence

Sir, - Given the level of response that my statement as convenor of the Church and Society Council on behalf of the Church of Scotland has received, I would like to make it clear that it is inaccurate of Murdo Fraser MSP to suggest that the church has shifted from its position on Scottish independence.

The Church of Scotland remains neutral on the question of Scottish independence, nonetheless should the Scottish Parliament vote in favour of a second referendum on Scottish independence and be overruled by the UK Parliament, this would be problematic.

For some time now the General Assembly of the Church of Scotland has recognised the claim of right which acknowledges the sovereign right of the Scottish people to determine the form of government best suited to their needs.

The church was a signatory to this statement in 1989 as part of the Scottish Constitutional Convention and has repeatedly reaffirmed this position at the annual General Assembly.

The church, therefore, recognises the right of the Scottish Parliament to request the holding of a vote on an independence referendum and would respect the outcome as representing the democratic will of the Scottish people.

As my previous statement makes clear, the Church of Scotland’s main priority should a second referendum occur would be to seek to do all it can to ensure that the complex and important questions raised are explored with humility and grace.

This remains the primary concern of the Church of Scotland in this matter.

Richard Frazer of the Church of Scotland, left, and MSP Murdo Fraser.