Writing for the Scotland on Sunday Jim McColl says "Another piece of the referendum jigsaw slotted into place last week. We now know what words will appear on the ballot paper in the referendum in 2014: Should Scotland be an independent country?
"Towards the end of last year, I came to the conclusion that, in the absence of a real alternative choice giving the Scottish Parliament substantially more fiscal autonomy, the answer to that question is Yes."
Jim McColl makes several key points:
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On a simple balance sheet calculation, Scotland can afford to be independent if we so choose.
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Independence, however, is about much more than the financial numbers
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The Scottish economy has characteristics that demand tailored solutions.
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The current and ongoing focus of the Westminster government on austerity when what Scotland needs now is investment in jobs and growth.
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Why is Scotland’s economy not performing better within the UK or relative to other smaller developed countries around the world?
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There is no guarantee that more powers will be devolved following a No vote.
"In 2016, we will have the freedom to choose elected representatives who have the best vision for Scotland. Let’s have the confidence and ambition to seize the opportunity."
read Jim McColl's full article here on the Scotland on Sunday
