Hundreds at independence rally

HUNDREDS gathered in Glasgow city centre after the UK’s highest court ruled Holyrood could not legislate for a second referendum.

The Supreme Court announced a unanimous decision yesterday – stating the Scottish Parliament did not have the necessary powers to hold a vote on separation.

Following the ruling, pro- indy supporters took to the city’s Royal Concert Hall steps at a rally later that night.

Ahead of the meeting, which was planned regardless of the outcome of the ruling, organisers Yes Greater Glasgow said:

“This is a historic moment when we need to make our opinions heard.

“Scots have given repeated election mandates to hold another referendum, giving us a second chance to decide if independence as a new country in Europe is a better bet for Scotland than continued membership of the UK.” A sea of banners, flags and posters covered the steps beside Buchanan Galleries and the Donald Dewar statue, many representing SNP and the Scottish Socialist Party. Rally participants held placards reading ‘ defy Tory rule’ and ‘ Yes’ as speeches were heard and met with applause from the crowd. Cheers and chants could be heard from bystanders, including: “What do we want? Independence. When do we want it? Now.” Meanwhile, First Minister Nicola Sturgeon addressed crowds at a similar rally outside Parliament in Edinburgh, declaring the UK as “not a voluntary partnership of nations”. She said: “Any partnership in any walk of life that requires one party to seek the consent of another to choose its own future is not voluntary – it is not a partnership at all.

“And while today’s ruling may create temporary relief on the part of unionist politicians and parties, they should know the hardest questions that have been posed today are questions for them.”

Following the decision by the court, the FM immediately announced plans to make the next General Election a ‘ de- facto independence referendum’, with plans for SNP and Scottish Greens to both fight for the issue of independence. She concluded her speech: “Let’s get to it, my friends, let’s win our independence and build the Scotland we know is possible.”