Independence referendum consultation

The consultation paper - – seeks views on:

what the ballot paper should say
what spending limits should be set
how the referendum should be managed and regulated
The consultation will close on May 11, 2012.

Mr Salmond said:

"The people who live in Scotland are the best people to make decisions about Scotland’s future. The referendum will be held in autumn 2014 on the same terms as any Scottish election, to the same standards and with the same guarantee of fairness. We will decide our future in a vote which is beyond challenge or doubt.

“Our nation is blessed with national resources, bright people and a strong society. We have an independent education system, legal system and NHS. They are respected worldwide. I believe that if we connect the wealth of our land to the well-being of our people, we can create a better country.

Read more

Find out more about Scotland's constitutional history

Interactive timeline