IN listening to people active within the SNP, Alba, Yes movement and public in general, it’s clear that a body of opinion is beginning to crystalise which eschews any notion of a plebiscite UK election up to two years away, conducted using the UK electoral franchise and in the glare of a hostile UK media. Even if such a vote could be won, what happens when the people say Yes and the British state says No?
Scotland and her people can’t endure another two years of Tory austerity with all the associated human suffering and economic damage. Decisive action is required now. A referendum is still the preferred option so intense political pressure must now be brought to bear on Sunak to deliver a Section 30 order. Business as usual by independence politicians is simply not acceptable.
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Firstly, Sunak must be informed of our intention to withdraw MPs from Westminster. Rather than facilitating the Westminster system, they should be carrying out their constituency duties in Scotland whilst providing a powerful block of professional politicians advocating for independence.
Secondly, if a Section 30 order is still denied, Sunak must be informed that the Scottish Government is preparing to dissolve parliament and hold our own de facto referendum under the Scottish election franchise to be held on the original date of October 19 as promised to the people of Scotland. We inform him that we will be voting for a declaration – not a negotiation.
Considering the Truss Budget nearly destroyed the UK economy, one could only speculate on the catastrophic consequences to the UK economy of immediate loss of Scottish energy, taxes, exports etc. That would be the nuclear option and the ultimate threat, however it demonstrates that we are in a much stronger position than many people realise. We need to take the initiative. To do otherwise appears weak and indecisive.
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The reaction by British nationalist politicians and media to last week’s Supreme Court judgment is most interesting. It’s not the response of people basking in a great victory. Quite the reverse. Their language is becoming more strident, they are whining, moaning and complaining about the most innocuous trivia. They are all too aware of their weakness and fear our strength.
I am aware that a special conference is being planned for some time in the new year, but worryingly, the Deputy First Minister is reportedly ruling out courses of action before the conference even takes place.
Party members, activists and the people in general will simply not accept an exercise in further delay. Action is required now and the two strategies outlined can force Sunak and the London regime to accept the inevitability of a Section 30 order and lawful referendum.
Alan Calder
Convener, YES Strathaven
“IT’S easier to create solidarity amongst 65 islanders faced with imminent evictions than it is to unite the disparate Yes movement. And yet, that’s what we must do.” These profound words were written in The National on Thursday by Lesley Riddoch, who is not only a great thinker, writer, campaigner and initiative leader herself, but to my mind the one person who could bring together a united cooperation of all independence parties, groups and individuals.
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Some coats are barely dry from the crowds who thronged to her call in towns and cities just last week and I have no doubt such response is indicative of the impartial clout Lesley wields, and dedication she holds toward Scotland’s independence.
Yes, the parties in power must decide what route is feasible and advisable. However, leadership of the movement down the preferred route needs exactly what Lesley Riddoch has in abundance, as proven by drop-of-a-hat notice for turnout on the evening of November 23.
Tom Gray
Braco
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