More island powers to be revealed this summer

Holyrood to publish a prospectus outlining benefits

A package of proposals to devolve more power to the western and northern isles will be available for public scrutiny this summer.

The Scottish Government said yesterday it intended to publish a prospectus which would lay out a range of benefits to Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles if people voted for independence.

A spokesman said plans identified by the three local authorities as having the potential to unlock future economic prosperity were discussed by the Scottish Cabinet in Stornoway yesterday. He added the talks focused on Crown Estate assets, renewable energy and digital connectivity.

The spokesman said ministers agreed that the proposals, encapsulated by the Our Islands Our Future campaign, should apply to all island communities in Scotland.

He added that the government had agreed that the cultural identity and status of those areas should be recognised in a draft written constitution that will be published in June.

Speaking after the Cabin e t m e e t i n g , the spokesman said: “The conversation that we are having with the three island authorities will lead to a prospectus.

“The intention is that prospectus should be reflected in the Islands Bill which would follow a vote for independence.

“Following the conclusion of the discussions we will publish a prospectus.”

Western Isles Council leader Angus Campbell said he welcomed Alex Salmond’s commitment to working with communities to boost local economies by using natural, cultural and economic assets.

“Papers will be published in summer when island communities will see what proposals are on the table,” added the councillor.

Leaders of the Our Islands Our Campaign took their case to Westminster last week to discuss issues expected to be at the heart of an agreement between the authorities and UK Government in the event of a No vote.

Shetland Islands Council is holding a public meeting at theMareel arts centre in Lerwick on April 29 to enable local people to discuss the campaign. Meanwhile, Scottish Labour local government spokeswoman Sarah Boyack met Highland Council convener Jimmy Gray yesterday to discuss devolution.