Summary of pros and cons of independence.
Pros
Rejoin the European Union
In the 2016 Brexit referendum, 62% of Scottish voters called for the UK to remain in the European Union, compared to England’s 46.6% of Remain voters. “On this point, at least, it’s clear what Scots want,” says Time’s foreign affairs correspondent Ian Bremmer.
As an independent country, Scotland could make a bid to rejoin the EU as a member state once a separation agreement was settled with England. The country could then begin to negotiate its access agreement, looking to benefit from access to the EU single market, as well as the free movement of labour, goods, services and capital.
“As a symbolic trophy prize of Brexit” Scotland’s value to the organisation shouldn’t be underestimated, writes The New European’s James Ball. However, Ball notes that rejoining “could be a long slog” coming “at a cost of relations and travel with the rest of the UK”.
‘Protect’ the NHS
Scotland has controlled the operation of its health service since the devolution settlement of 1999. However, funding and overarching policy decisions currently remain with Westminster.
Preventing NHS privatisation is high on pro-independence campaigners’ agenda. In February 2021,
Power over policy
The Scottish government would have greater power over its defence, social security and foreign policies were it to become independent from the UK. It would also have increased control over constitutional matters, energy and environmental policies, and immigration.
Cons
Trading places
England is Scotland’s largest trading partner, a relationship that could be put to the test if Scotland were to opt for independence. This could become more complicated still if the country were to rejoin the EU.
Deficit dilemma
According to projections by the Institute of Fiscal Studies, Scotland’s public deficit is greater than that of the rest of the UK. The financial repercussions of Brexit and the coronavirus pandemic could make independence a costly decision.
Global player
At least in the short term, Scotland would lose its access to transnational organisations. The country would need to apply for independent membership of these organisations. Without representation at these organisations, Scotland could lose its ability to have its voice heard on global issues including climate change and international peacekeeping.
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