STORY BY SARAH GROSSMAN
Tomorrow, Scotland will vote on its independence. Scotland currently has some self-governing powers while under United Kingdom rule — the Parliament of the United Kingdom, located in Westminster, London. Scotland also has six members on the European Parliament.
In the Scottish Parliament, the Scottish National Party holds the largest percentage of seats. This party is also in favor of Scottish independence.
Professor Derek Wilson provided a commentary last Tuesday and is torn between the two competing cultures.
“I’ve always considered myself to be British and Scottish. I didn’t really make the distinction,” Wilson said. “There are so many things that make you feel British and so many things that make you feel Scottish.”
Wilson noted that incentives for independence include a closer government, more wealth and Scotland becoming a non-nuclear state. However, the combined government does bring opportunity.
“I think, personally, that there’s never been a better time to be Scottish in the United Kingdom,” Wilson said. “Scottish people, Scottish voices are being heard in public, in the corridors of power.”
Wilson believes the vote will be in favor of the U.K.
“I think it will be close, and I don’t think it will be decisive enough,” Wilson said.
If Scotland votes no, Wilson believes the referendum will come back again and again, calling it a “neverendum.” This power struggle that has continued for hundreds of years, may last beyond this Thursday.
For more information, Wilson will provide background and up-to-date information tomorrow at 12 p.m. in Cartwright Hall, room 206.
