Local SNP MSP Tom Arthur has reiterated his support for legislation that provides legal framework for the holding of referendums on any matters within Scotland’s control as the Referendums (Scotland) Bill was debated at the Scottish Parliament
The Bill – which successfully passed stage one on Thursday 7 November – seeks to establish a high quality set of rules, developed specifically for Scotland, which will ensure the conduct of future referendums is robust, transparent and in the interests of the voters.
It also aims to provide clarity on the process for voters, campaigners and those administering the process, to ensure all referendums are run to the highest possible international standards and the results are accepted by all parties.
Tom Arthur MSP, who is a member of the Scottish Parliament’s Finance and Constitution Committee designated to lead on the Bill, said:
“Throughout the Brexit process, Scotland has been treated with contempt by Westminster, and our efforts to find compromise and protect the interests of the people of Scotland, who voted overwhelmingly to remain in the EU, have been ignored.
“Now, more than ever, it is essential that we keep Scotland’s options open so that people have the opportunity to choose a better future.
Cabinet Secretary for Government Business and Constitutional Relations Michael Russell MSP added:
“The bill before the Scottish Parliament will prevent rule-breaking and maintain the democratic gold standard. There is a cast-iron mandate to hold a referendum on whether to become an independent country and there should be no attempt by Westminster to veto the right of people in Scotland to decide their own future.”