PRO-UNION PARTIES IN POWER VOW
SCOTLAND’s opposition leaders have offered a joint promise of more powers for Holyrood in an attempt to secure a No vote.
Labour’s Johann Lamont, Tory Ruth Davidson and Willie Rennie of the Scottish Liberal Democrats said added fiscal responsibility and social security were now guaranteed.
However, the trio gifted opponents a PR coup by announcing their plans in front of the unfinished National Monument of Scotland on Calton Hill – also known as ‘Edinburgh’s Folly’.
Angus Robertson, the SNP’s leader in Westminster, tweeted: ‘Limited devo pledge launched by #ProjectFear parties today at site known as “Scotland’s Disgrace” or “Edinburgh’s Folly”. Very apt #indyref’.
Unionists welcomed the politicians’ move, particularly after recent concerns raised by tycoon Sir Tom Hunter that it was ‘crazy’ to expect voters to analyse three different offers.
In a joint statement, the Scottish leaders said: ‘We support the further strengthening of the parliament’s powers.
‘The three parties delivered more powers for Holyrood through the Calman Commission which resulted in the Scotland Act 2012.
‘We now pledge to strengthen further the powers of the Scottish parliament, in particular in the areas of fiscal responsibility and social security.’
Prime Minister David Cameron said: ‘The people of Scotland can be assured that the powers of the Scottish Parliament will be enhanced whilst retaining the strength, stability and security of the United Kingdom.’