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Scottish parliament debates call for second independence referendum - Politics live Scottish parliament debates call for second independence referendum - Politics live
(about 20 hours later)
5.29pm GMT5.29pm GMT
17:2917:29
Afternoon summaryAfternoon summary
Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s first minister, has opened a debate in the Scottish parliament on her call for a second independence referendum by challenging the UK government to offer its own timetable for a vote if it won’t accept hers. (See 4.11pm.) The debate will conclude tomorrow afternoon, and it is expected that MSPs will back the motion (see 2.05pm.) The SNP and the Scottish Greens are voting in favour, but Conservative, Labour and Lib Dem MSPs are against.Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s first minister, has opened a debate in the Scottish parliament on her call for a second independence referendum by challenging the UK government to offer its own timetable for a vote if it won’t accept hers. (See 4.11pm.) The debate will conclude tomorrow afternoon, and it is expected that MSPs will back the motion (see 2.05pm.) The SNP and the Scottish Greens are voting in favour, but Conservative, Labour and Lib Dem MSPs are against.
The UK government has announced a sweeping new cabin ban on all laptops and tablets on inbound flights from six Middle East countries – regulations that are wider than similar US restrictions.The UK government has announced a sweeping new cabin ban on all laptops and tablets on inbound flights from six Middle East countries – regulations that are wider than similar US restrictions.
The European Union will not hold its first Brexit summit until 29 April, a month after Theresa May triggers article 50, underlining how Britain will no longer be in control of the process.The European Union will not hold its first Brexit summit until 29 April, a month after Theresa May triggers article 50, underlining how Britain will no longer be in control of the process.
Martin McGuinness, the former IRA chief of staff and a key figure in the Northern Ireland peace process, has died just two months after stepping down as deputy first minister. We posted many tributes to McGuinness earlier in the day. Here are two more worth noting. David Trimble, the former Ulster Unionist Northern Ireland first minister, released this letter he sent to McGuinness before he died.Martin McGuinness, the former IRA chief of staff and a key figure in the Northern Ireland peace process, has died just two months after stepping down as deputy first minister. We posted many tributes to McGuinness earlier in the day. Here are two more worth noting. David Trimble, the former Ulster Unionist Northern Ireland first minister, released this letter he sent to McGuinness before he died.
David Trimble's letter to McGuinness just days ago: "You reached out to unionists in a way some of them were reluctant to reach out to you" pic.twitter.com/ocjd1iXYwoDavid Trimble's letter to McGuinness just days ago: "You reached out to unionists in a way some of them were reluctant to reach out to you" pic.twitter.com/ocjd1iXYwo
And Bill Clinton, the former American president, posted a tribute on his website. Clinton said McGuinness “believed in a shared future, and refused to live in the past, a lesson all of us who remain should learn and live by.”And Bill Clinton, the former American president, posted a tribute on his website. Clinton said McGuinness “believed in a shared future, and refused to live in the past, a lesson all of us who remain should learn and live by.”
The Financial Conduct Authority and fraud police will examine allegations that Britain’s high street banks processed nearly $740m from a vast money laundering operation run by Russian criminals, a Treasury minister has told MPs.The Financial Conduct Authority and fraud police will examine allegations that Britain’s high street banks processed nearly $740m from a vast money laundering operation run by Russian criminals, a Treasury minister has told MPs.
The BBC has defended its record on impartiality after it was accused of anti-Brexit bias by a group of mainly Tory MPs.The BBC has defended its record on impartiality after it was accused of anti-Brexit bias by a group of mainly Tory MPs.
Len McCluskey, the Jeremy Corbyn ally standing for re-election as head of Britain’s biggest union, has launched a scathing attack on Tom Watson for allegedly seeking to influence the election of Unite’s general secretary.Len McCluskey, the Jeremy Corbyn ally standing for re-election as head of Britain’s biggest union, has launched a scathing attack on Tom Watson for allegedly seeking to influence the election of Unite’s general secretary.
George Galloway has confirmed he will stand in the Manchester Gorton byelection in an attempt to benefit from a divided local Labour party and re-enter parliament.George Galloway has confirmed he will stand in the Manchester Gorton byelection in an attempt to benefit from a divided local Labour party and re-enter parliament.
Two of the private companies that provide 50% of probation services in England and Wales have confirmed to MPs they will have to consider quitting if a Ministry of Justice review fails to deliver improvements.Two of the private companies that provide 50% of probation services in England and Wales have confirmed to MPs they will have to consider quitting if a Ministry of Justice review fails to deliver improvements.
That’s all from me for today.That’s all from me for today.
Thanks for the comments.Thanks for the comments.
4.47pm GMT4.47pm GMT
16:4716:47
Here are some more extracts from the debate. The tweets are from the BBC’s Philip Sim, who has a rather good take on what its like watching a debate when you know what the result will be (a vote in favour of the SNP motion when this ends, tomorrow afternoon.)Here are some more extracts from the debate. The tweets are from the BBC’s Philip Sim, who has a rather good take on what its like watching a debate when you know what the result will be (a vote in favour of the SNP motion when this ends, tomorrow afternoon.)
It's like Sportscene or MOTD when you already know the scores. You know who's going to win, but you watch for the goals (and bad tackles)It's like Sportscene or MOTD when you already know the scores. You know who's going to win, but you watch for the goals (and bad tackles)
The SNP’s Bruce CrawfordThe SNP’s Bruce Crawford
Bruce Crawford strikes a good note; "implores" all to avoid bitter, acrimonious debate. "Let's show respect for each other's point of view." pic.twitter.com/2ulxrjJUP5Bruce Crawford strikes a good note; "implores" all to avoid bitter, acrimonious debate. "Let's show respect for each other's point of view." pic.twitter.com/2ulxrjJUP5
The Conservative Adam TomkinsThe Conservative Adam Tomkins
Adam Tomkins, er, reinterprets the classic Kenyon Wright 'we say yes' quote: "We are the people, and we said no. And we meant it" pic.twitter.com/phgj4qnPnIAdam Tomkins, er, reinterprets the classic Kenyon Wright 'we say yes' quote: "We are the people, and we said no. And we meant it" pic.twitter.com/phgj4qnPnI
The SNP’s Richard LochheadThe SNP’s Richard Lochhead
Richard Lochhead says Brexit and UKgov's response is a "profound illustration" of why Scots should have a choice; "we need an escape route" pic.twitter.com/0uE26yhesYRichard Lochhead says Brexit and UKgov's response is a "profound illustration" of why Scots should have a choice; "we need an escape route" pic.twitter.com/0uE26yhesY
The Conservative’s John LamontThe Conservative’s John Lamont
John Lamont says he'll take no interventions as Nicola Sturgeon showed no respect fr Holyrood by announcing plans to journalists before MSPs pic.twitter.com/lvUM2HlWz1John Lamont says he'll take no interventions as Nicola Sturgeon showed no respect fr Holyrood by announcing plans to journalists before MSPs pic.twitter.com/lvUM2HlWz1
The SNP’s Ruth MaguireThe SNP’s Ruth Maguire
Ruth Maguire says it's incumbent on MSPs to "lead by example" and not "fuel feelings of anxiety and division to further our own arguments" pic.twitter.com/l6DlfAPaU3Ruth Maguire says it's incumbent on MSPs to "lead by example" and not "fuel feelings of anxiety and division to further our own arguments" pic.twitter.com/l6DlfAPaU3
The Conservatives’ Douglas RossThe Conservatives’ Douglas Ross
Douglas Ross says "if it wasn't Brexit, it would be something else" - indyref2 triggers include "anything the SNP can hang their hat on" pic.twitter.com/2gRva3H5e3Douglas Ross says "if it wasn't Brexit, it would be something else" - indyref2 triggers include "anything the SNP can hang their hat on" pic.twitter.com/2gRva3H5e3
The SNP’s Ash DenhamThe SNP’s Ash Denham
Ash Denham says if WM had chance to "remove Holyrood's powers entirely", Scots Tories wd "hand this parly to Theresa May on silver platter" pic.twitter.com/QNQMT8D1JUAsh Denham says if WM had chance to "remove Holyrood's powers entirely", Scots Tories wd "hand this parly to Theresa May on silver platter" pic.twitter.com/QNQMT8D1JU
Labour’s Alex RowleyLabour’s Alex Rowley
Alex Rowley says there is not a majority demanding indyref2 - "the opposite is the case". "Poll after poll" shows "no appetite at this time" pic.twitter.com/LOZiExQhTBAlex Rowley says there is not a majority demanding indyref2 - "the opposite is the case". "Poll after poll" shows "no appetite at this time" pic.twitter.com/LOZiExQhTB
The SNP’s Ivan McKeeThe SNP’s Ivan McKee
"'Now is not the time' means there is a time," says Ivan McKee, saying UKgov have "conceded" the principle that "there will be a referendum" pic.twitter.com/gQs5JlAxLq"'Now is not the time' means there is a time," says Ivan McKee, saying UKgov have "conceded" the principle that "there will be a referendum" pic.twitter.com/gQs5JlAxLq
The Conservatives’ Donald CameronThe Conservatives’ Donald Cameron
Donald Cameron says SNP won't offer firm answers on EU membership as it's dawned on them that Brexiteers may be "politically useful" pic.twitter.com/yw08wqBGgDDonald Cameron says SNP won't offer firm answers on EU membership as it's dawned on them that Brexiteers may be "politically useful" pic.twitter.com/yw08wqBGgD
Labour’s Jenny MarraLabour’s Jenny Marra
Jenny Marra asks if the SNP will rule out indyref3 if they don't win indyref2 pic.twitter.com/2UMDJAoyK8Jenny Marra asks if the SNP will rule out indyref3 if they don't win indyref2 pic.twitter.com/2UMDJAoyK8
4.28pm GMT4.28pm GMT
16:2816:28
The SNP has retweeted this tweet about what the Lib Dem Willie Rennie and the Conservative John Lamont have been saying in the debate.The SNP has retweeted this tweet about what the Lib Dem Willie Rennie and the Conservative John Lamont have been saying in the debate.
Fair bit of party-political hypocrisy going on in this debate, I'm afraid. #ScotRef pic.twitter.com/ri3mK0HMS0Fair bit of party-political hypocrisy going on in this debate, I'm afraid. #ScotRef pic.twitter.com/ri3mK0HMS0
UpdatedUpdated
at 4.29pm GMTat 4.29pm GMT
4.11pm GMT4.11pm GMT
16:1116:11
Opening of the Scottish parliament debate - SummaryOpening of the Scottish parliament debate - Summary
Here are the key points from the opening of the debate:Here are the key points from the opening of the debate:
Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s first minister, challenged the UK government to come up with its own referendum timetable if it refused to accept hers. Opening the debate, and moving the SNP motion calling for a referendum between autumn 2018 and spring 2019 (see 2.05pm), she said she was willing to discuss a possible alternative with Theresa May.Nicola Sturgeon, Scotland’s first minister, challenged the UK government to come up with its own referendum timetable if it refused to accept hers. Opening the debate, and moving the SNP motion calling for a referendum between autumn 2018 and spring 2019 (see 2.05pm), she said she was willing to discuss a possible alternative with Theresa May.
Let me make this clear – if the UK government disagrees with that timeframe, then they should set out a clear alternative and the rationale for it.Let me make this clear – if the UK government disagrees with that timeframe, then they should set out a clear alternative and the rationale for it.
As I have said in recent days, I am, within reason, happy to have that discussion to see if we can find common ground that I can then propose to this parliament.As I have said in recent days, I am, within reason, happy to have that discussion to see if we can find common ground that I can then propose to this parliament.
Sturgeon rejected repeated claims from opposition MSPs that the SNP did not have a mandate for a second referendum. Its manifesto specifically talked about the need for a second referendum if there were a material change of circumstances, she said.Sturgeon rejected repeated claims from opposition MSPs that the SNP did not have a mandate for a second referendum. Its manifesto specifically talked about the need for a second referendum if there were a material change of circumstances, she said.
The suggestion that an emphatic election victory on the basis of a clear manifesto commitment and a parliamentary majority on an issue does not provide a mandate begs the question, what does?The suggestion that an emphatic election victory on the basis of a clear manifesto commitment and a parliamentary majority on an issue does not provide a mandate begs the question, what does?
She said Brexit would probably turn out to be harsher than many people, including leave supporters, expected.She said Brexit would probably turn out to be harsher than many people, including leave supporters, expected.
The probability is that our exit taking us outside the single market will be on harder and harsher terms than most people, including many Leave voters, would have supported in the run-up to last June’s referendum.The probability is that our exit taking us outside the single market will be on harder and harsher terms than most people, including many Leave voters, would have supported in the run-up to last June’s referendum.
She claimed that she was only proposing a second referendum because the UK government had not tried to accommodate her demand for Scotland to remain in the single market after Brexit. But commentators expressed some scepticism about her claim that she did not want to be in this position. This is from the i’s Chris Green.She claimed that she was only proposing a second referendum because the UK government had not tried to accommodate her demand for Scotland to remain in the single market after Brexit. But commentators expressed some scepticism about her claim that she did not want to be in this position. This is from the i’s Chris Green.
General amusement at Sturgeon's "note of consensus": none of the parties want to be debating thisGeneral amusement at Sturgeon's "note of consensus": none of the parties want to be debating this
STV’s Peter MacMahon also points out that some MSPs found it hard to accept her claim that she was not motivated by party political concerns. ITV’s Peter MacMahon also points out that some MSPs found it hard to accept her claim that she was not motivated by party political concerns.
Decision on #indyref2 "should not be driven by what is convenient for any politician or party" @NicolaSturgeon to some opposition scepticismDecision on #indyref2 "should not be driven by what is convenient for any politician or party" @NicolaSturgeon to some opposition scepticism
Ruth Davidson, the Scottish Conservative leader, accused Sturgeon of going back on her promise not to push for a second referendum unless public opinion changed. Support for independence had not increased, Davidson said.Ruth Davidson, the Scottish Conservative leader, accused Sturgeon of going back on her promise not to push for a second referendum unless public opinion changed. Support for independence had not increased, Davidson said.
Never mind though. In the SNP, you don’t even need to acknowledge old promises, still less honour them. Instead, we are told today to forget about what was once said and instead submit to the SNP’s will. Well, we don’t. And we won’t.Never mind though. In the SNP, you don’t even need to acknowledge old promises, still less honour them. Instead, we are told today to forget about what was once said and instead submit to the SNP’s will. Well, we don’t. And we won’t.
Sturgeon countered this point by saying the SNP’s manifesto made it clear that a change in circumstances, and not just a change in public opinion, could justify a second referendum. Davidson also criticised the SNP for not be willing to reach agreement with Westminster over the terms of a second referendum, arguing that this was not the approach it adopted before the 2014 poll.Sturgeon countered this point by saying the SNP’s manifesto made it clear that a change in circumstances, and not just a change in public opinion, could justify a second referendum. Davidson also criticised the SNP for not be willing to reach agreement with Westminster over the terms of a second referendum, arguing that this was not the approach it adopted before the 2014 poll.
Furthermore, the SNP wants to unilaterally decide on the rules and the timing of the referendum. We now know there is no agreement between the UK and Scottish governments on the prospect of this referendum.Furthermore, the SNP wants to unilaterally decide on the rules and the timing of the referendum. We now know there is no agreement between the UK and Scottish governments on the prospect of this referendum.
I remind the SNP today that they once described the last referendum, with the Edinburgh agreement, with unanimous backing in this chamber, with 92% support across the public, as the ‘gold standard’ approach. This today, this is not the gold standard – it’s a tinpot approach to the biggest decision we could ever be asked to make.I remind the SNP today that they once described the last referendum, with the Edinburgh agreement, with unanimous backing in this chamber, with 92% support across the public, as the ‘gold standard’ approach. This today, this is not the gold standard – it’s a tinpot approach to the biggest decision we could ever be asked to make.
And she also said that the SNP could not insist on the UK government complying with a Scottish parliament vote because it often ignored Scottish parliament votes itself. She said this had happened five times in the last six months, such as when the Scottish parliament voted to scrap the controversial Offensive Behaviour at Football Act.And she also said that the SNP could not insist on the UK government complying with a Scottish parliament vote because it often ignored Scottish parliament votes itself. She said this had happened five times in the last six months, such as when the Scottish parliament voted to scrap the controversial Offensive Behaviour at Football Act.
Why do they exclaim that the Westminster government should recognise votes in the Scottish parliament when the Scottish government does not do so?Why do they exclaim that the Westminster government should recognise votes in the Scottish parliament when the Scottish government does not do so?
Stephen Daisley, a Scottish journalist often very critical of the SNP, says it was Davidson’s most powerful speech for years.Stephen Daisley, a Scottish journalist often very critical of the SNP, says it was Davidson’s most powerful speech for years.
That was the most powerful speech @RuthDavidsonMSP has given since her equal marriage speech in 2013. Sheer, eloquent fury. #indyref2That was the most powerful speech @RuthDavidsonMSP has given since her equal marriage speech in 2013. Sheer, eloquent fury. #indyref2
But the nationalist Wings Over Scotland website mocked her stance.But the nationalist Wings Over Scotland website mocked her stance.
Ruth Davidson: nobody should change their position on anything no matter how much events change.Ruth Davidson: nobody should change their position on anything no matter how much events change.
Labour’s Kezia Dugdale accused Sturgeon of being obsessed with independence to the exclusion of matters like education. She said:Labour’s Kezia Dugdale accused Sturgeon of being obsessed with independence to the exclusion of matters like education. She said:
Nicola Sturgeon wakes up every single day thinking of ways to engineer another referendum. Because leaving the UK is the only thing that matters to her. It isn’t improving education in Scotland. It isn’t lifting children out of poverty. It’s independence. That will always come first and it always has.Nicola Sturgeon wakes up every single day thinking of ways to engineer another referendum. Because leaving the UK is the only thing that matters to her. It isn’t improving education in Scotland. It isn’t lifting children out of poverty. It’s independence. That will always come first and it always has.
She also claimed that independence would make Scotland poorer.She also claimed that independence would make Scotland poorer.
Now, I hate what the Tories are doing to Britain. I’ve never felt anger like it. Their austerity programme is destroying public services that we all value and the poorest rely on. But the SNP cannot escape from the facts. Leaving the UK would make things much worse for the poorest people in Scotland.Now, I hate what the Tories are doing to Britain. I’ve never felt anger like it. Their austerity programme is destroying public services that we all value and the poorest rely on. But the SNP cannot escape from the facts. Leaving the UK would make things much worse for the poorest people in Scotland.
Patrick Harvie, the Green party co-convenor, who is backing the SNP motion, said delaying a referendum until after 2019 would be a mistake. He said:Patrick Harvie, the Green party co-convenor, who is backing the SNP motion, said delaying a referendum until after 2019 would be a mistake. He said:
The idea of delaying this until after 2019 after we’ve been given the opportunity to see how our new relationship with Europe is working fundamentally misrepresents leaving the EU as something good instead of the act of political wreckage that it is.The idea of delaying this until after 2019 after we’ve been given the opportunity to see how our new relationship with Europe is working fundamentally misrepresents leaving the EU as something good instead of the act of political wreckage that it is.
Autumn 2018 will be after the negotiations conclude when there is clarity about the arrangements.Autumn 2018 will be after the negotiations conclude when there is clarity about the arrangements.
A deal negotiated by a UK government Scotland didn’t choose, with an EU institution on which Scotland is no longer represented about Brexit which Scotland didn’t vote for either, and then a period of ratification by every other European country.A deal negotiated by a UK government Scotland didn’t choose, with an EU institution on which Scotland is no longer represented about Brexit which Scotland didn’t vote for either, and then a period of ratification by every other European country.
That would leave the future of Scotland in the hands of everybody else in the whole of Europe, the citizens of Scotland the only people voiceless, voiceless, in that process. I don’t think that we can accept that, I won’t vote for it.That would leave the future of Scotland in the hands of everybody else in the whole of Europe, the citizens of Scotland the only people voiceless, voiceless, in that process. I don’t think that we can accept that, I won’t vote for it.
Willie Rennie, the Scottish Lib Dem leader, accused the SNP of cynically shifting its position on EU membership. In his speech he said the SNP was not promising that in the referendum they would guarantee EU membership. He said Alex Salmond has said the SNP is after Efta (European free trade association) membership instead.Willie Rennie, the Scottish Lib Dem leader, accused the SNP of cynically shifting its position on EU membership. In his speech he said the SNP was not promising that in the referendum they would guarantee EU membership. He said Alex Salmond has said the SNP is after Efta (European free trade association) membership instead.
So they will use the EU to get the referendum even though the referendum won’t get the EU. And we know the reason why; they are cynically courting the one in three independent supporters who backed Brexit. So they are prepared to use pro-Europeans to get a referendum but sell them out to win independence. It is low politics for narrow gain.So they will use the EU to get the referendum even though the referendum won’t get the EU. And we know the reason why; they are cynically courting the one in three independent supporters who backed Brexit. So they are prepared to use pro-Europeans to get a referendum but sell them out to win independence. It is low politics for narrow gain.
Davidson claimed this point made MSPs feel embarrassed.Davidson claimed this point made MSPs feel embarrassed.
Front bench body language was fascinating. As @willie_rennie talked of SNP's EU/EFTA switcheroo, every one was head down, buried in papers.Front bench body language was fascinating. As @willie_rennie talked of SNP's EU/EFTA switcheroo, every one was head down, buried in papers.
Earlier, when Rennie rasied this point during Sturgeon’s speech, Sturgeon said the SNP was in favour of EU membership. She told Rennie:Earlier, when Rennie rasied this point during Sturgeon’s speech, Sturgeon said the SNP was in favour of EU membership. She told Rennie:
The SNP’s position in favour on membership of the European Union is clear and it is longstanding, and what is beyond any doubt is that if we do not become independent, then that membership of the EU is ended because we are taken out against our will.The SNP’s position in favour on membership of the European Union is clear and it is longstanding, and what is beyond any doubt is that if we do not become independent, then that membership of the EU is ended because we are taken out against our will.
UpdatedUpdated
at 4.34pm GMT at 11.05am GMT
3.07pm GMT3.07pm GMT
15:0715:07
Rennie says the case for the union is not just an economic one. He says the UK has been a force for compassion, with one of the biggest aid budgets in the world.Rennie says the case for the union is not just an economic one. He says the UK has been a force for compassion, with one of the biggest aid budgets in the world.
He says no Scottish nationalist will ever tell him he should be ashamed of that.He says no Scottish nationalist will ever tell him he should be ashamed of that.
And that’s it.And that’s it.
The frontbench speeches are over. I will post a summary shortly.The frontbench speeches are over. I will post a summary shortly.
3.03pm GMT3.03pm GMT
15:0315:03
Rennie says Alex Salmond denied saying that the last referendum was a once in a lifetime opportunity. But there was a clip on YouTube of him saying that. And Salmond denied denying that he had said that, even though that was on YouTube too.Rennie says Alex Salmond denied saying that the last referendum was a once in a lifetime opportunity. But there was a clip on YouTube of him saying that. And Salmond denied denying that he had said that, even though that was on YouTube too.
He quotes from Alice in Wonderland. Alice asked: “How long is forever?” The white rabbit said it could just be one second. Rennie suggests the SNP’s stance is like this.He quotes from Alice in Wonderland. Alice asked: “How long is forever?” The white rabbit said it could just be one second. Rennie suggests the SNP’s stance is like this.
2.58pm GMT2.58pm GMT
14:5814:58
Willie Rennie, the Scottish Lib Dem leader, is speaking now.Willie Rennie, the Scottish Lib Dem leader, is speaking now.
Here is his amendment.Here is his amendment.
As an amendment to motion S5M-04710 in the name of Nicola Sturgeon (Scotland’s Choice), leave out from “and therefore mandates” to end and insert “believes that a second referendum on Scottish independence would only compound the uncertainty of Brexit and its risk to the economy, environment and security; notes that all measures of public opinion show that there is no appetite for such a vote; further believes that there is no mandate for another Scottish independence referendum on the basis of the UK leaving the EU when there are no cast-iron guarantees that full membership of the EU will be sought or granted, and supports the development of a positive future for Scotland inside a federal UK.”As an amendment to motion S5M-04710 in the name of Nicola Sturgeon (Scotland’s Choice), leave out from “and therefore mandates” to end and insert “believes that a second referendum on Scottish independence would only compound the uncertainty of Brexit and its risk to the economy, environment and security; notes that all measures of public opinion show that there is no appetite for such a vote; further believes that there is no mandate for another Scottish independence referendum on the basis of the UK leaving the EU when there are no cast-iron guarantees that full membership of the EU will be sought or granted, and supports the development of a positive future for Scotland inside a federal UK.”
He accuses Harvie of saying manifesto commitments do not count.He accuses Harvie of saying manifesto commitments do not count.
That prompts angry jeering.That prompts angry jeering.
This is what the Scottish Greens’ manifesto for the Scottish parliament elections said in 2016.This is what the Scottish Greens’ manifesto for the Scottish parliament elections said in 2016.
Citizens should be able to play a direct role in the legislative process: on presenting a petition signed by an appropriate number of voters, citizens should be able to trigger a vote on important issues of devolved responsibility. As we proposed on the one year anniversary of the independence referendum, this is the Scottish Greens’ preferred way of deciding to hold a second referendum on independence. If a new referendum is to happen, it should come about by the will of the people, and not be driven by calculations of party political advantage.Citizens should be able to play a direct role in the legislative process: on presenting a petition signed by an appropriate number of voters, citizens should be able to trigger a vote on important issues of devolved responsibility. As we proposed on the one year anniversary of the independence referendum, this is the Scottish Greens’ preferred way of deciding to hold a second referendum on independence. If a new referendum is to happen, it should come about by the will of the people, and not be driven by calculations of party political advantage.
UpdatedUpdated
at 3.07pm GMTat 3.07pm GMT
2.54pm GMT2.54pm GMT
14:5414:54
Harvie says leaving the EU is “an act of political wreckage”.Harvie says leaving the EU is “an act of political wreckage”.
He says other EU countries will get a vote on the Brexit deal.He says other EU countries will get a vote on the Brexit deal.
But under the UK government’s plans, the people of Scotland would be voiceless. They would be the only voiceless country in Europe, he says. He says that is not acceptable.But under the UK government’s plans, the people of Scotland would be voiceless. They would be the only voiceless country in Europe, he says. He says that is not acceptable.
2.52pm GMT2.52pm GMT
14:5214:52
Harvie says many leave campaigners said there was no threat to the UK’s place in the single market.Harvie says many leave campaigners said there was no threat to the UK’s place in the single market.
Even Ruth Davidson said after the referendum that she wanted the UK to stay in the single market. He says her abandonment of that position has been “disgraceful”.Even Ruth Davidson said after the referendum that she wanted the UK to stay in the single market. He says her abandonment of that position has been “disgraceful”.
He says young voters and foreigner were deliberately excluded from the EU referendum last year. But they should be allowed to vote on the future of the country they live in.He says young voters and foreigner were deliberately excluded from the EU referendum last year. But they should be allowed to vote on the future of the country they live in.
He says the treatment of EU nationals in the UK has been particularly shabby.He says the treatment of EU nationals in the UK has been particularly shabby.
He says the Tory and Labour amendments both read like wishful thinking.He says the Tory and Labour amendments both read like wishful thinking.
2.45pm GMT2.45pm GMT
14:4514:45
Patrick Harvie, the Green party’s co-convenor in Scotland, is speaking now.Patrick Harvie, the Green party’s co-convenor in Scotland, is speaking now.
Here is is amendment.Here is is amendment.
As an amendment to motion S5M-04710 in the name of Nicola Sturgeon (Scotland’s Choice), insert at end “; believes that this gives people in Scotland a choice at a time when there is both the most information and most opportunity to act; further believes that 16 and 17-year-olds and EU citizens, who were excluded from the EU referendum, should be entitled to vote, and considers that this referendum is necessary given the Prime Minister’s decision to negotiate a hard exit from the EU, including leaving the single market, which conflicts with assurances given by the UK Government and prominent Leave campaigners, and which takes no account of the overwhelming Remain vote in Scotland.”As an amendment to motion S5M-04710 in the name of Nicola Sturgeon (Scotland’s Choice), insert at end “; believes that this gives people in Scotland a choice at a time when there is both the most information and most opportunity to act; further believes that 16 and 17-year-olds and EU citizens, who were excluded from the EU referendum, should be entitled to vote, and considers that this referendum is necessary given the Prime Minister’s decision to negotiate a hard exit from the EU, including leaving the single market, which conflicts with assurances given by the UK Government and prominent Leave campaigners, and which takes no account of the overwhelming Remain vote in Scotland.”
He acknowledges that people have mixed feelings about a second referendum.He acknowledges that people have mixed feelings about a second referendum.
He says 2014 was an expression of the will of the people. But so was 2016, he says.He says 2014 was an expression of the will of the people. But so was 2016, he says.
2.43pm GMT2.43pm GMT
14:4314:43
Dugdale says leaving the UK would make things worse for the poorest people in Scotland.Dugdale says leaving the UK would make things worse for the poorest people in Scotland.
In six years in this chamber she has never heard an argument to the contrary, she says.In six years in this chamber she has never heard an argument to the contrary, she says.
An SNP MSP, Kevin Stewart, says the Tories are making the poor poorer. Would Dugdale be happy to see the Tories in power for the next 10, 20, 30 years?An SNP MSP, Kevin Stewart, says the Tories are making the poor poorer. Would Dugdale be happy to see the Tories in power for the next 10, 20, 30 years?
Dugdale says independence would lead to turbo-charged austerity.Dugdale says independence would lead to turbo-charged austerity.
2.40pm GMT2.40pm GMT
14:4014:40
Dugdale says Sturgeon says the referendum was not divisive. But Dugdale says from her conversations with people she knows it was. Every family and workplace was divided. And last Monday, when Sturgeon announced her call for a referendum, felt just as divisive as the final day of the last campaign.Dugdale says Sturgeon says the referendum was not divisive. But Dugdale says from her conversations with people she knows it was. Every family and workplace was divided. And last Monday, when Sturgeon announced her call for a referendum, felt just as divisive as the final day of the last campaign.
She says she believes in the union, as a living, breathing union of countries in the UK.She says she believes in the union, as a living, breathing union of countries in the UK.
2.37pm GMT2.37pm GMT
14:3714:37
Dugdale says the SNP used to say the will of the Scottish people should be respected. But it was expressed in 2014. More than 2m Scots voted to remain in the UK. That is the will of the Scottish people and that is what should be respected, she says.Dugdale says the SNP used to say the will of the Scottish people should be respected. But it was expressed in 2014. More than 2m Scots voted to remain in the UK. That is the will of the Scottish people and that is what should be respected, she says.
2.35pm GMT2.35pm GMT
14:3514:35
Kezia Dugdale's speechKezia Dugdale's speech
Kezia Dugdale, the Scottish Labour leader, is speaking now.Kezia Dugdale, the Scottish Labour leader, is speaking now.
Here is her amendment.Here is her amendment.
As an amendment to motion S5M-04710 in the name of Nicola Sturgeon (Scotland’s Choice), leave out from “and therefore mandates” to end and insert “; believes that a strong Scottish Parliament within a federal UK would meet these needs; recognises that the overwhelming will of the Scottish people is that there should be no second divisive independence referendum; believes that far from giving Scots a choice, a second independence referendum would only increase uncertainty and cause greater division as the UK faces a hard Tory Brexit, and asserts that there should be no second independence referendum.”As an amendment to motion S5M-04710 in the name of Nicola Sturgeon (Scotland’s Choice), leave out from “and therefore mandates” to end and insert “; believes that a strong Scottish Parliament within a federal UK would meet these needs; recognises that the overwhelming will of the Scottish people is that there should be no second divisive independence referendum; believes that far from giving Scots a choice, a second independence referendum would only increase uncertainty and cause greater division as the UK faces a hard Tory Brexit, and asserts that there should be no second independence referendum.”
She says she wishes they were having a debate about education.She says she wishes they were having a debate about education.
But they are debating independence because that is all that matters to the SNP.But they are debating independence because that is all that matters to the SNP.
2.33pm GMT2.33pm GMT
14:3314:33
Davidson says five times in the last six months the SNP government has ignored the wishes of the Scottish parliament.Davidson says five times in the last six months the SNP government has ignored the wishes of the Scottish parliament.
So why should the UK government recognise votes in the Scottish parliament when the Scottish government does not do so?So why should the UK government recognise votes in the Scottish parliament when the Scottish government does not do so?
2.32pm GMT2.32pm GMT
14:3214:32
Davidson says the SNP said the will of the people should drive a second referendum.Davidson says the SNP said the will of the people should drive a second referendum.
But there is none, she says.But there is none, she says.
She allows an intervention from Patrick Harvie, the Green co-convenor, saying he is going against his own manifesto.She allows an intervention from Patrick Harvie, the Green co-convenor, saying he is going against his own manifesto.
Harvie says the Tory manifesto said the UK would stay in the single market.Harvie says the Tory manifesto said the UK would stay in the single market.
Davidson says the government wants to keep access to the single market.Davidson says the government wants to keep access to the single market.
2.29pm GMT2.29pm GMT
14:2914:29
Davidson says the SNP motion amounts to a “bulldozer” approach.Davidson says the SNP motion amounts to a “bulldozer” approach.
That is not what happened in 2014, she says. She says the terms of that referendum were agreed in talks with Westminster.That is not what happened in 2014, she says. She says the terms of that referendum were agreed in talks with Westminster.
She says the SNP described the approach taken in 2014 as “the gold standard approach”. This is not the gold standard approach, she says.She says the SNP described the approach taken in 2014 as “the gold standard approach”. This is not the gold standard approach, she says.
She accuses the SNP of rushing to any microphone “with the angry face on” and making the same old complaints.She accuses the SNP of rushing to any microphone “with the angry face on” and making the same old complaints.
It won’t work, she says.It won’t work, she says.
She says most people in Scotland are sick and tired of these old games.She says most people in Scotland are sick and tired of these old games.
She says Brexit will pose challenges. Why start an independence campaign now when we don’t know how it will play out?She says Brexit will pose challenges. Why start an independence campaign now when we don’t know how it will play out?
And the SNP cannot answer basic questions, such as what the currency will be.And the SNP cannot answer basic questions, such as what the currency will be.
The first minister wants a date, but she cannot give us a plan.The first minister wants a date, but she cannot give us a plan.