LIBERAL DEMOCRATS URGED TO AVOID DOUBLE STANDARDS OVER INDEPENDENCE REFERENDUM

Scottish Liberal Democrats including Sir Menzies Campbell and Iain Smith have set themselves in opposition to the Scottish Government’s plans for a referendum on independence. At Westminster and in Wales, however, Liberal Democrats have acted in support of referenda on constitutional change. Rod Campbell, SNP prospective candidate for North East Fife at the Westminster election said, “Sir Menzies Campbell has supported Labour’s plans to introduce a referendum on the alternative vote system for UK general elections – giving voters a say in constitutional change. “The Welsh Lib Dems are supporting a referendum on greater powers for the Welsh Assembly and have pledged to campaign for a ‘yes’ vote. They want voters to have their say and increased autonomy from Westminster. “Liberal Democrats even continue to support the idea of referenda as part of the process of creating English regional assemblies of which they are in favour. “When it comes to the people of Scotland having their voice heard on increased powers for Holyrood the Lib Dems change their tune. Why should Scots voters not enjoy the same democratic expression as the Welsh or the English? “Sooner or later Liberal Democrats must accept that the people are entitled to their say on the future of Scotland and adopt a more positive and consistent approach .” said Rod. Mr. Campbell’s comments come just days after the First Minister announced that the Scottish Government would be seeking the views of the people of Scotland on its draft referendum bill. “The Scottish Government are showing flexibility over the questions that would be included in a referendum and over the timescale because it is vital that the people of Scotland have a vote on the constitutional future of their country. I call upon the Liberal Democrats to support us in this.” said Rod Campbell.