THE Common Weal think tank is appealing for £25,000 to help solve the “unanswered questions” of the 2014 referendum.
Organisers say there is an “urgent” need to conduct major research aimed at finding solutions to issues surrounding social security, currency, borders and broadcasting after Nicola Sturgeon announced moves to hold a second ballot.
The body says “no-one else” is currently working on these areas and has today launched a crowdfunding bid to pay for full-time researchers for its White Paper Project.
In a statement, the think tank said: “With a referendum now called, Common Weal believes it is urgent the work is done to answer major questions like pensions, currency, trade and defence in time for the vote.
“A successful fundraiser will mean the independence movement will be armed with the most detailed blueprint possible for setting up an independent nation state.”
The White Paper Project focuses on how to develop and create the institutions and processes necessary for Scotland to function as an independent country.
It aims to produce a “consolidated business plan” which would get leaders to “day one” after separation, including establishing the means of tax collection, international negotiations, securing energy supply and other issues.
In January its experts proposed a three-year maximum interim governance period to allow the country to transition to full separation in the event of a Yes vote, with a National Commission designing and implementing the needed structure.
It also suggested basing the constitution on the European Human Rights Act and the International Declaration of Human Rights, with the rest drawn up in consultation with the public – something the Scottish Government promised in its Scotland’s Future blueprint in 2014.
The project also advocates the creation of a new Scottish currency pegged to Sterling, with a Scottish Central Bank founded to manage this and a Scottish Defence Force established to protect sea lanes and support the work of customs officials in cracking down on smuggling activities on the coastline.
A “smart border” with England is also recommended to address concerns about the free movement of people.
However, organisers say more work must now be done.
Head researcher Craig Dalzell, an expert in laser physics and photonics, said: “The White Paper Campaign means that your campaign will be backed by the most detailed case for independence yet made. It shall provide the answers that you need to help us win.”
Last time around the Yes side was heavily criticised for its response to questions around the economy and other issues. The preferred option of the SNP was a currency union with the rest of the UK. However, this suggestion was dismissed by then Chancellor George Osborne and critics claimed the plan would allow Westminster to continue to dictate the actions of the fledgling state through its monetary policy.
Many older voters also cited uncertainty around pensions as a reason for backing the Union. Meanwhile, Ruth Davidson claimed that a Yes win would see Scots viewers lose access to Doctor Who, Strictly Come Dancing and other BBC output.
The crowdfunder can be found via this link.
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