spider9

We know that you are a strong supporter of independence and that I am a strong opponent. But that doesn't matter because the Scottish referendum will be decided by those who are currently undecided.

Try and see things from their point of view.

Much has been made of the SNP's claim that an independent Scotland would automatically become a member of the EU. But what if the rest of the UK leaves?

Is Salmond going to say that he was only joking about how important the EU would be to an independent Scotland and if the UK leaves Scotland would leave?

Or is he going to accept that Scotland in and England out means having a very expensive hard border between the two to stop smuggling from outside the EU into the EU?

Note I said EU not Scotland because Brussels would insist on a proper border and might pay some of the costs. But, how independent is that?

Cameron has created uncertainty about what would happen in a independent Scotland. Undecideds hate uncertainty and vote for the status quo.

It seems to me quite probable that some undecideds will think it is best to say 'No' for now and, maybe, think about it again once the EU position is clear.

Given that the polling suggests that almost every undecided has to vote 'Yes' it seems likely that Cameron has done enough to destroy any chance of a vote for Salmond.

There is no doubt that Cameron's move was extremely good politics. Unfortunately, for everyone, good politcs and good governance are two very different things.

New FM Are you related to the old fm?

I know this is off subject, but is New FM the old forum member, activating a New Years resolution?.

I do find it confusing when people use similar or suddenly change their names :o)

"so I thought 'New FM' would be obvious".

It was, by the similar contribution style at 10.19am.