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Result too close to call as polling begins in Scotland’s referendum
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SCOTLAND voted yesterday on whether to stay within the United Kingdom or end the 307-year-old union with England and become an independent nation in a finely balanced referendum with far-reaching consequences.
From the remote Highlands and islands to the housing estates of Glasgow, people were almost equally divided over a vote watched closely by Britain’s allies, investors and restive regions at home and abroad.
Pre-voting opinion polls gave the “No” campaign — those in favor of the status quo — a slight edge. But hundreds of thousands of people still making up their minds held the key as polling stations opened for what was certain to be a record turnout.
Tennis star Andy Murray sent a powerful last-minute message in support of the pro-independence “Yes” vote, when he tweeted “Let’s do this.”
Many people see the choice as one of “hearts or heads” — whether emotional stirrings and yearnings would outweigh pragmatic concerns over the risks and uncertainty an independent nation would face.
“I’ve waited all my life for this,” said the first voter in Edinburgh’s Waverley Court, a businessman who gave only his first name Ron. “It’s time to break with England. ‘Yes’ to independence.”
As he spoke, a couple of workers hurrying by in the morning mist and drizzle shouted: “Vote No!””
Those opposed to independence say a split could slow economic growth, affect the UK’s defense capability, threaten the unity of other countries and tip the balance in favor of people who want Britain to leave the European Union.
Those in favor say that is just scaremongering and see a bright future for an independent Scotland in Europe, a fairer society and good defense and economic cooperation with London.
The issue has divided families and friends but also electrified this country of 5.3 million in months of debate.
One group of “Yes” voters marched to an Edinburgh polling station with a piper playing “Scotland the Brave,” while on the city’s main Princes Street, overlooked by its castle, some “Better Together” campaigners handed out leaflets saying: “Vote No.”
Leaders of both sides have urged Scots to consider the long-term implications of answering “Yes” or “No” to the question: “Should Scotland be an independent country?”
Scotland’s First Minister Alex Salmond told hundreds of supporters in Perth at a final rally: “Scotland’s future must be in Scotland’s hands ... This is our opportunity of a lifetime and we must seize it with both hands.”
The independence movement says Scots should be able to choose their own leaders and make their own decisions rather than be ruled from London. Supporters of the union say Scotland is more prosperous and secure as part of the UK.
The prospect of breaking up the UK has had financiers in the City of London warning of market turmoil.
Defense is also a major question — Britain’s submarine-borne nuclear arsenal, part of NATO’s defences — is based in Scotland’s Firth of Clyde.
Many of those voting for independence feel rule from London has opened too wide a gap between rich and poor.
“I want a different kind of Scotland, a socially just Scotland,” said Lisa Clark, a church worker, after voting “Yes.”
The result is expected today.
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