Scotland's referendum for independence
This is with reference to the report, "UK leaders pledge support to Scots" (Sept.17). Not many know that Scotland was an independent nation till the beginning of the 17th century but it became a part of the Great Britain (now known as the United Kingdom), including Northern Ireland. The moot question is will the kingdom stay united, as it has remained so for more than three centuries? A section of the UK media is biased against an independent Scotland. The UK is making a last-ditch effort to keep Scotland in its fold.
Scotland is rich in oil resources. More autonomy for Scotland is being dangled as a carrot to keep it in the UK fold. On the other hand, those favouring an independent Scotland say that the promise of more autonomy is vague, as nothing is specified. The subject of Scotland breaking away from the UK has naturally generated a keen interest in India. The erstwhile Great Britain is held responsible for the partition of India and now the UK itself maybe broken into two nations - an independent Scotland and the rest of the UK. Shall we call it natural justice - God's justice?
If Scotland eventually breaks away from the UK, the moot question is parking of Trident class nuclear submarines which are currently based in Scotland. Where will these submarines be parked? The other question is if Scotland becomes an independent nation, will it join the European Union and the NATO? Will Scotland continue to use the currency of the UK's pound sterling - it remains to be seen.
Deendayal M. Lulla
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