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July 2019 – Scottish independence

On Monday, 1st July, the Sylvans debated the motion:

This House believes that Scotland should be allowed to conduct a second independence referendum.

It was proposed by Paul Carroll and opposed by Peter Hulme-Cross.  

The proposer opened with a historical perspective on the Union, and provided a clear and detailed overview of the legal position of a second independence referendum.  He argued that the significant change due to the UK Brexit referendum, relative to the Brexit result within Scotland, means that Scotland should have this right.  The opposer pointed out that Scotland was told their referendum was a ‘once in a lifetime’ chance, and was clearly defeated, arguing that the matter was closed.  He outlined a whole range of impacts that would flow from Scottish independence, many with parallels to Brexit, and pointed out that the Brexit outcome is not yet settled, making it too soon for a re-run. 

The floor speeches responded to these points, with a couple of themes emerging on the efficacy of referenda and the focus on Scotland’s legal position rather than the impact of Scottish succession. 

In the final vote the motion carried.

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