THERE’S been huge debate over how to achieve independence in the absence of a Section 30 order since the Supreme Court ruling that Holyrood does not have the powers to hold a referendum.
First Minister Humza Yousaf has outlined his preferred option of using a majority of Scottish seats at the next General Election as the basis to seek negotiations with the UK Government and take steps towards the foundation of an independent nation.
Others such as now independent MP Angus MacNeil say calling an early Holyrood election and using it as a de facto referendum is the best way forward.
As we report today, a new proposal has been drawn up by grassroots campaigners. Believe in Scotland (BiS) has suggested a “double majority” mandate should be used, to trigger independence.
The plan makes a number of interesting points, including addressing the assertion that a “de facto” referendum should be based on a majority of votes. With the UK Government blocking previous mandates for a referendum, the rules of a General Election victory – a majority of seats – should apply, it argues.
READ MORE: Scottish independence route map unveiled by Believe in Scotland
BiS founder Gordon MacIntyre-Kemp says he hopes the document will add value to the conversation and give party members “food for thought” on what the best approach is.
That’s another key point – there should be debate and discussion over what is the best way forward to draw up a plan that independence campaigners can get behind.
The first of the SNP regional assemblies kicking off in Central Scotland yesterday offers hope there will be the opportunity for party members to do this. It’s a conversation which the wider independence movement should of course also be involved with.
In the coming General Election, it will be more critical than ever to have a plan on the way forward for independence – despite the continued efforts of the UK Government to block it – and to be able to get that message across to voters.
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Callum Baird, Editor of The National
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