The Americans of all nations should understand what's going on.. They declined the benefits of an even larger union..

I wonder where we should hold our Boston Tea Party?

The eyes of the world are upon us; we cannot afford to screw up! It must be an SNP government followed by independence.

What's the betting every international newspaper is reporting this election in a reasonable balanced and factual way. The fact our own newspapers cannot do this is Scotland's shame.

What can Canada say to the the Quebecois if Scotland succeeds in its drive for independence? It will set a strong precedent.
I'm sure there's a strong urge, and a not unsubstantial piece of irony, for les Quebecois to be shouting upon the Plains of Abraham, "Vive l'Ecosse libre."

The world is realising that Scotland is a Nation, and is willing to recognise it as such. It's a pity that many Scots aren't willing to do the same.

They must be shocked to see Scottish people campaigning on a platform that we cannot manage our own affairs.

The tide is also turning in England, the only part of the UK without it's own parliament. Latest polls indicate 63% of Scots want either more powers or complete independence, and 69% want a referendum. In England 72% responded that they also want a change with Scottish MP's being prevented from voting on English issues.

Contrary to what the Labour poster here say, only 4% responses saying they personally disliked the English.

All the posts that use scare tactics are show to actually HELP the SNP. 18% said it would make them LESS likely to vote labour, and 42% said it did make any difference and they wouldn't be voting labour anyway.

In virtually all areas Alex Salmond is seen more positively than Hurricane Jeck (although Alex is seen as more arrogant).

Polls are at
http://www.yougov.com/archives/archivesPolitical.asp?jID=...=

Comment@2 Sanny......sounds reasonable....as long as its soon after :)

It's heartening reading to see ourselves as others see us. They don't fear for Scotland's Independent future, in fact some are gleeful. Me too.

be careful what you wish for. you just might get it.

If Scotland becomes Independent, Places like Quebec, Basque, Catalonia ect.. will all push harder for idependence.

If Scotland becomes independent there is no longer a strong ally for the US because Britain is split.
So America will have no ally because England won't have the army to fight alongside America. So they are out on their todd. Therefore America becomes a weaker nation.

This could change the world in a small way this election, it would give other people around the world in non-democratic nations that small countries can go it alone. They already have Iceland, Norway, Eire ect.. to look at but we'd just give the numbers a boost in the small successful country catogory.

We have to lead the revolution for all the small nations out there! May the 3rd SNP!

If the eyes of the world's media are on Scotland I suggest that they focus on the totally biased anti-SNP representation of the respective parties in the "Scottish" (sic) media and the dirty tactics employed by an ever more desperate Labour Party's exemplified by the McNeil non-story run in Pravda aka the Record.

We can only imagine what % the SNP would poll if it enjoyed anything like a fair representation in the media.

A side note: Scotland was a nation on it's own at one time, and will be again. Quebec was never a nation. It was a colony of France which was lost in war to Britain. So end the comparisons. It's an insult to Scots to use Quebec in any comparison.

2. Sanny, Portugal till May
“ The eyes of the world are upon us; we cannot afford to screw up!”
I suppose that what happens when you live in the Antipodes we’re not part of the main World as there has not been even a brief mentioned of the Scottish election either in the NZ press or TV. What about in OZ - guys?
Or in the Sates LA or in SA Geoff?
There was a bit some weeks ago in Chicago Tribune about the success of small European countries generally and the SNP taking notice of that but that was reprint from the Independent - I think.
If the eyes of the World are truthfully on Scotland than I’m sure a few of our regular posters will confirm this but if not it will again show how British media happily feed the Scottish people bu**sh*t.

In all the arguments put forward by supporters of the Scottish Tory, Scottish New Labour and Scottish Liberal-Democrats against the Scottish National Party they all avoid the obvious situation that these parties are controlled by Westminster whether they have the name Scottish in front of them or not. One word from Westminster and they do as they are told. Whether the Scottish National Party decides to have a referendum on seceding from the Union does not matter. It alone is not controlled from London and if Scots want a fair share of oil income and control of other income from the EU they had better vote Nationalist otherwise nothing will change. The devolution game was merely instituted to keep you quiet until the North Sea oil is exhausted. If you are dumb enough to think otherwise then you deserve your current status.

13. williamx
Right William- pity they can't all see it.
Is there much about the Scottish Election in Canadian press? See#12.

Hey what happens here : I read political editor, “Eddie Barnes will be online to answer your questions from 11am on Tuesday. Please leave questions via comments below.”
http://scotlandonsunday.scotsman.com/opinion.cfm?id=61840...
After 20- posts it’s the old, ‘Commenting on this article has closed.’
I’m knew to this - can someone explain.

#9 Skirvy
While in principle I agree with many things you say, I would be careful about quoting Norway, Iceland and Ireland as economic examples for independence based on the high cost of living in Norway, inflation in Iceland, and Ireland really got on its feet in the 90's as a source of cheap labour for the multi-nationals - assisted greatly by EU grants. Scotland does not have cheap labour so this pattern is unlikely to emerge, thus it could be a Norwegian - Iceland scenario after independence.
However, do not lose heart in the face of the economic doom mongers. If you're looking for a good example, try Denmark: much the same population as Scotland, fewer natural resources, EU member, good labour laws, energetic entrepreneur small industries, inflation under control and a smart link to the Euro that lets them keep the kroner(albeit nostalgia), and they even claim to 'like' paying tax of 50% because they realise the value of a good social sector - and, of course, have enough money left to pursue a good life. All in all, not a perfect but a workable example.

A few things.

1. Please keep in mind that Boston is in New England and always has been one of the more anglo-centric areas of the U.S.

2. I think I tend to agree with the people who are saying do not compare SNP to Bloc Quebecois. The Bloc seems to not be as organised as the SNP is. The situation in Canada is also different for the Francophone community than for the Indigenous Language of Scotland (Gaelic). As well, Francophone culture does not seem to be under as much threat as Gaelic culture does in Scotland. The potential economic situation is also vastly different in the two places.

3. The Scotsman does not do a good job at getting beyond the very surface of American thoughts on the matter. There are a number of St. Andrew's Societies which lean predominantly pro-Independence. The vast number of Senators and Representatives who have Scottish connections is also a potential factor. The number of voters, who have such connections as well, is quite numerous. If the voters tell the Senators and Representatives they think they should communicate to the President that the President should establish a treaty recognizing Scotland as a re-independent country and tell the Senate to ratify said treaty, then the U.S. will recognize the re-independent country of Scotland.

4. The Boston Globe is a pretty second tier paper. Pay attention to papers like the New YorK Times, New York Post, Washington Post, Washington Times, Chicago Tribune, Philadelphia Inquirier, LA Times and Atlanta Tribune. In comparison to these other papers the Boston Globe is a relatively uninfluential newspaper. It's readership is small compared to these other papers I have listed. Also pay attention to the Wall Street Journal, it's the U.S. version of the Financial Times.

Once again selective listening from the Scotsman- and they're getting tone deaf as well.

It's time!

Most of my family are Changing from labour to Snp,And my family who live down south,Are also dumping labour for Tories.

#12 Robbie -- nope haven't seen anything about it -- yet -- but I may be too busy playing on the net! -- where's Weeshooie? he mighta seen stuff...
Sorry -- can't explain the "commenting closed" stuff -- I know there's a time limit ...

#Skirvy and #16 Expat artist, you could also consider New Zealand or closer to home Switzerland. Switzerland is roughly the same size as Scotland, but has 2 million more people, however, it is incredibly similar and would be a great guide for the Scots. Unfortunately many Swiss have no idea what is going on outside their own borders (even outside their own regions sometimes). At the post office recently I wanted to send a parcel to Scotland was asked, that belongs to England doesn't it?...Oh dear!

We wont follow the education in Switzerland then!:)

My only problem with true independence for Scotland is the size of our public sector. In an independant Scotland this would have to be greatly reduced in size.
Alex Salmond has intimated that he will do this, but I doubt his heart is in it.
This dependance on the public sector also encourages a reliance culture and suffocates business and the free market.
If we cut the public sector and rely on our natural entrepeneurial flair to shine through then Scotland could be a beacon for other countries.

We should all remember culloden and the highland clearances and also remember history has a habit of repeating itself

A great article , however very sad that the peoples of the world get a more balanced report on it from their press than we do in Scotland.
Newspapers like this, the Herald and, the Daily Rectum should be ashamed and embarrassed to face these foreign journalists knowing the anti Independence slant and lies they manage to put on every story to the Scottish reading public regarding self determination.

The size of the public sector is indeed out of all proportion to the demography, and this must change. People should not fear change , but seek the inspiration to change for the better. The world's eyes are upon us ? Hmm, that'll make a change, usually international attention starts and ends down south.

Most people are given a full quota of life, most exist and let time ebb away, if you summon up the energy within, apply it all in one focussed effort, you can achieve something quite glorious...

Rise now, and be a nation again .... The world is watching ... The beacon has been lit and is attracting attention, from this comes support, and in support comes strength. If we always do what we have always done, then sure as hell we'll always get what we have always got. lets do something different. lets stand on our own two feet and show the world we are not afraid of a challenge.

Tony Blair has had a major part to play in Scotland's new found confidence and direction -

It is so typical of the man that he has sought to play down his role in the present state of affairs....

Don't worry about your legacy Tony....
Come May 3rd it'll be secure...!!!

At last the world media has discovered the strength and passion of the Scottish revolution and it's dramatic consequences for the the viability of the UK. I met an LA journalist on Princes Street yesterday who asked me 'Why was this kept such a big secret' good question Eh! Wait till these foreign journalists see the lack of professional detachment and almost hysterical bias of the Scottish media!

Hasan Suroor the indian journalist had it nearly right in his succint comment...'The end of the long labour Raj in Scotland'...just substitute British for Labour.

Will the Scottish media be sufficiently embarassed to begin some balanced reporting now that internationally...the cat is out of the bag!

#5 Once more you trot out the lie that anyone who does not support independence must believe we are unable to manage our own affairs, when the clear fact is that we are currently managing our own affairs.

So what is your position on the movement in Orkney and Shetland for independence from Scotland (and they would take with them quite a chunk of oil)? What about independence for the Western Isles - there is quite some political will for that too.

So much for an Independent Scotland being marginalised in the world when we get Independence. We haven’t even got it yet and the world's press is on our doorstep, just as they were with the Devolution referendum.

This world press attention is not just because of the breakup of the hub of one of the great world empires but because of Scotland's standing in the world, despite all of England's efforts to subsume us into a greater England.....aided and abetted of course by their Scottish poodles in the various 'Scottish' Unionist parties.

The McCrone report should be enough to convince all Scots to vote for SNP, and independence in the referendum that would follow them being elected.

I'm sure that a similar report will be unearthed in another 30 years time, wake up Scotland!

Im all for Orkney & Shetland getting independence and England can keep the oil, Independence is much more important.

Sorry to disagree with you (16) but you make the mistake of equating low corporation tax with low wages. Irish wages axcross the board are much higher than in the UK. The reason 90,000 Irish people (out of 2 million workers) are employed by US multinationals is because Irish corporation tax is 12.5% compared to 30% in the UK. Incidentally, Irish companies employ 55,000 US workers in 35 States. Irish tax rates in general are much lower than in the UK. Tax Freedom Day- the first day of the year on which any given country has collected enough tax to pay its annual financial bills fell in Ireland (2006) on May 9. In the UK it was June 3. As for the old canard that EU subsidies account for Irish growth - the link below debunks this particular myth far better than I could
http://moneyweek.com/file/2645/fsl-ireland.html

Why is the debate about independence always centred on money?

A fool knows the cost of everything and the value of nothing.

Independence can't be measure in pounds and pence, or in Euros for that matter. It's a moral decision, not a financial one.

Interesting observations from the Swiss journalist:

SNP could win 51 seats.

Labour could lose 20% of its vote according to its own polling.

And this is more than a week out!!! Interesting days???

FOR A FAIRER AND MORE PROSPEROUS SCOTLAND.

VOTE SNP - 1st, 2nd, 3rd. ON 3 MAY.

20 Kate

What part of Switzerland are you in. ?

You said :

"Switzerland is roughly the same size as Scotland, but has 2 million more people, however, it is incredibly similar and would be a great guide for the Scots

Swizerland is a confederation of regions (cantons)... has three main language areas as well as local dialects, has an extremely adanced and technical industrial base, employs a great number of " guest workers" from other nations, is totally landlocked, has always remained politically neutral,is fiercely independent,maintains the largest on call defence force in western Europe,is financially stable, has a huge financial sector ...

Oh yes it does have mountains, and a thriving agricultural. The Tourism sector is also a large industry...but Switzerland is very very different to Scotland .Definitely a fine example of what an independent state should aspire to be..but incredibly similar to Scotland. ???.. It's most obviously not that.

#33 Because unless there is a case for a sound economy after independence then it simply can't happen. The country doesn't run on pride!

19. Yane, Melbourne
“ #12 Robbie -- nope haven't seen anything about it...”
Hi Yane - thanks for replying. Hope the other Aussie Scots (plus Kiwi, US and other exiles) come on line they can confirm or deny that, “ The eyes of the world are upon us; (the Scottish Elections)” It is important that the truth comes out. Most countries wouldn’t have a clue there’s an election on in - where?
This is to pretend that Scotland in its present situation has a role in the real World of International politics - it doesn’t. This is the first article where we have our own ‘reporters’ from all over the World (no matter their political affiliations) who can corroborate the Scotsman’s headline, ‘Focus of the world's media turns to Scotland’ by Tim Cornwell. Hate to say it but Tim it’s another made-up story. At least we knew Pravda lied.
Come on Two Dogs, Wiz, Wee Shooie and our other mates in Oz, Geoff in SA, Dragonhead in the People’s Republic, et al - is the media in you countries reporting the Scottish election? I’m prepared to eat humble pie (if I get a recipe) if they are.

28. Duncan in Edinburgh .Yes your absolutely right to ask the question about Orkney and Shetland.."And where does all this xenophobia end?" I ask myself.

All this "regionalization" was a stupid idea from the brain of Prescott and the Office of the DPM. This total twerp thought he was bringing power down to the people..having let that 'cat out of the political bag' all it will achieve is the disintegration of the "United Kingdom".
And lets face it the likely disintegration of the EU? As how is it going to work if all the old constituent parts of OLD Europe (pre 1914), all think they can all manage their own affairs??. Because as sure as eggs is eggs they will all want separate autonomy! to guard their own country's assets... Well that's how the most of the wars of in Europe were caused.
Integration of Trade/Finance within Europe IS THE ONLY WAY TO STOP IT ALL THE WARS HAPPENING AGAIN..Do we never learn from history??

Mrs T

As an Englishman living in Scotland, the big worry for me about independence is that it will make the country - particularly the media - even more parochial and racist than it already is. The most common word used by the media up here - whether it be radio, TV or print - is "Scot" or "Scottish", which is repeatedly racist. Compare with the English media - which I am not claiming as a shining example by any means - and the nationality of the subject is irrelevant.
For those "Scots" open and fair-minded enough to care, there's more of this at:
http://world-of-crap.blogspot.com/2006/10/does-my-bomb-lo...

#38 You make a very good point Mrs T, and may I take this opportunity also to congratulate you on your many missives to Humph at ISIHAC over the years.

# 32 Thanks Gerry- good to be corrected on the popular conception that Irish economic growth was partly financed by the EU - maybe just a wee bit, eh?.
Good, as then Scotland can call on established examples, like the beneficial company tax to attract needed investment you quote.
Good to know Scotland, should it want to, could choose to make such decisions. One among many handy examples when it comes to the realities after the ultimate 'rush' of freedom and independence is over and Scotland gets down to ruling itself.
For the doubters - 300.000 according to today's Scotsman: it's been done before - successfully. Feels good!

Independence, then what?

SNP stands for Scottish independence in Europe. That's no more independent than at present. In the meantime, what are their social and economic policies like? What makes someone claim it would be "fairer" under SNP? In what way would it be fairer? It would certainly be more expensive as, irrespective of what cynical bribes are being offered, separating government institutions will be costly. This will be supervised in the same way as the building of the concrete monstrosity at the bottom of the Royal Mile and it will be Scottish taxpayers who will have to foot the bill. How about giving some thought to that?

#39,

As a Scotsman living in Scotland, I share your concerns.

I've come to this one a bit late, but #1: If you are going to quote from history re 1775-1782 then perhaps you should also bear in mind the war fought to preserve the union (1861-1865). Separatism isn't always the right approach.

More importantly, never mind the history (whether its American, Culloden - or even 'oor oil' in the 70s) - let's vote depending on what we think the best direction for Scotland is from May 07 onwards.

#39 The term "Scot" and "Scottish" is used BECAUSE WE ARE SCOTTISH. How dare you call this a racist term. Far from it, YOUR comments are racist to say that these terms are racist.

Look at the the polls linked to:
http://www.alba.org.uk/polls/2006polls.html

and you will see that Scots have an identity just like England, only stronger. And you have the cheek to post this tripe the day after St George's Day!!!

Go on-line to yesterdays English papers and look at your "racism" displayed there. Did you celebrate??

I think their pride in England is wonderful, just like our pride in Scotland.

And just for your reference, of those responding that they want more powers in Scotland, only 4% said they personally disliked the English.

There is a good Scottish saying for people like you: "They just open their mouths and let their bellies rumble".

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=16bPATQnAU4#GU5U2spHI_4

LINK TO THE VIDEO THEY MENTION

#39 - That is what comes from being part of a union of less-than-equals, where the media is heavily centralized in the much larger partner in the union. We feel we have to explicitly state that things are Scottish to differentiate them from the 'default' English position.

The UK news media is parochial too - just at a UK-level. (And even worse is that they often report matters affecting only England or England and Wales as if they applied to the whole of the UK.)

Holyrood is the single greatest source of embarrassment to any Scot with grey matter between their ears.

McConnell has the intellect of a gnat and the integrity of dog poo.
Sturgeon ditto.
Salmond ditto.
Tavish Scott - idiot.
Nicol Stephen - too sickly even for my granny.
Bendy Wendy - ranting lunatic.

Robbie, Yane et al

There has been absolutely nothing here about the elections in fact a lot of my English and Welsh colleagues didn't even know about them.

There has been plenty coverage of the forthcoming French elections though.

#42 - This is abject nonsense. Are we in Scotland currently as integrated with Germany, Sweden or Slovakia as we are with England? No, we clearly are not.

Why do people keep asking this ridiculous question, "Why do the SNP want independence from London only to stay in the EU and be subject instead to Brussels?", when it is plain for all to see that we are currently subject to both Brussels and London, and, further, if we wanted, could choose as an independent nation to leave the EU as well if that was our wish.

(Incidentally, I happen to think that leaving the EU would be the biggest mistake an independent Scotland could make. I believe that there are clear advantages to pooling our sovereingty in certain areas with our European partners and therefore, by definition, making ourselves subject to some common laws.)

39

Why is is racist to call a Scot a Scot? or Scottish?
We,ve had 300 years of being referred to as English.
There are still many people worldwide and down South for that matter that still have difficulty in seperating being British from being English.
You still here it all the time in the media.

#45 - So we are ALL Scottish, are we? That includes the 600,000 people living in SCotland who are English, Welsh, Polish, Pakistani, INdian, Arab, etc, does it? The terms "Scot" and "Scottish" are racist because they exclude all those people who are not, and the sooner you - and the Scottish media - realise this, the quicker Scotland can claim its place as a first-world, civilised country.
#47 I appreciate your more reasoned response, and accept that the English press is parochial on a UK-level, but imagine if, when writing my blog, I differentiated between "English" and non-English. It's only a couple of consonants away from "whites" and non-whites.......

48

In its present state I couldnt agree more.

#39 Yeah -- it's a point of view but "racist"? Dunno about that word. Had a look at the blogspot -- why the sunnies? Good luck wi' the job hunt -- it's a mug's game eh? But an old guy once said to me -- "Everything's a mug's game mate -- everything." I was pleased -- felt I could relax and be a mug.

52

.Who are you referring to as we?
Are you talking about every person in Scotland at the present time irrespective of their political status ie tourists, migrant workers etc
And what makes you think they are referred to as Scots or Scottish? your making no sense.

No. 3 - Absolutely spot on. At least now the international media are here, we will be able to read some unbiased coverage of our own election!

No. 52 - This is an outrageous slander on all Scots. Anyone born in Scotland is a Scot, it's as simple as that. Religious or ethnic differences do not change that, they just make life more interesting.

KennethM (50), I refer you to the EU Constitution, currently being redrafted, which will cede legislative power to Brussels. Membership of the EU, which is central to SNP's supposed drive for Scottish independence, will require signing that constitution. You may think it abject nonsense, but you will be much more integrated with Gemany et al than you currently are and a great deal less independent than you think.

#54 Yane - thanks re: the job hunt. Watch this space...!
#56 Boyce - I'll try to make this simple with a current example: an outfit called BingoScotland currently advertises its on-line game on STV(usually during the ad break on Corrie St) with the catchline: "It's for bingo-loving Scots!" Spot the flaw in this? What about us bingo-loving English, Irish, Welsh, Polish, etc?? To use the term "Scots" in this context is to exclude a fair chunk of the population of Scotland, i.e. racist. Does that make things any clearer?
www.world-of-crap.blogspot.com

#59 Fair point. But I love it up here and live with my beautiful Scottish girlfriend. My beef is less with Scotland or Scots, and more with its media which, alas, appears to be popular enough to survive(though dwindling circulation figures would appear to show good sense is slowly prevailing....)

#39/ 43. BIG MOUTH TROLL & (I)

It has all been tried on here, you are way behind do pay attention and try and catch up.

The troll office has a new intake of drones, but they are just not up to speed.

It is game over done and dusted. The Union is exposed as the treachorous con that it always was you are to late trolls, find another nest to kick.

http://tv.snp.org/

IT IS TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR NATION STOLEN BY A PARCEL OF ROGUES VOTE SNP AND RESTORE OUR PRIDE. THE UNION IS NO MORE. VOTE SNP.

IT IS TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR NATION STOLEN BY A PARCEL OF ROGUES VOTE SNP AND RESTORE OUR PRIDE. THE UNION IS NO MORE. VOTE SNP.

IT IS TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR NATION STOLEN BY A PARCEL OF ROGUES VOTE SNP AND RESTORE OUR PRIDE. THE UNION IS NO MORE. VOTE SNP.

IT IS TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR NATION STOLEN BY A PARCEL OF ROGUES VOTE SNP AND RESTORE OUR PRIDE. THE UNION IS NO MORE. VOTE SNP.

IT IS TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR NATION STOLEN BY A PARCEL OF ROGUES VOTE SNP AND RESTORE OUR PRIDE. THE UNION IS NO MORE. VOTE SNP.

IT IS TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR NATION STOLEN BY A PARCEL OF ROGUES VOTE SNP AND RESTORE OUR PRIDE. THE UNION IS NO MORE. VOTE SNP.

IT IS TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR NATION STOLEN BY A PARCEL OF ROGUES VOTE SNP AND RESTORE OUR PRIDE. THE UNION IS NO MORE. VOTE SNP.

IT IS TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR NATION STOLEN BY A PARCEL OF ROGUES VOTE SNP AND RESTORE OUR PRIDE. THE UNION IS NO MORE. VOTE SNP.

IT IS TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR NATION STOLEN BY A PARCEL OF ROGUES VOTE SNP AND RESTORE OUR PRIDE. THE UNION IS NO MORE. VOTE SNP.

IT IS TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR NATION STOLEN BY A PARCEL OF ROGUES VOTE SNP AND RESTORE OUR PRIDE. THE UNION IS NO MORE. VOTE SNP.

IT IS TIME TO TAKE BACK OUR NATION STOLEN BY A PARCEL OF ROGUES VOTE SNP AND RESTORE OUR PRIDE. THE UNION IS NO MORE. VOTE SNP.

IT IS T

No. 60 - Now you really are talking mince. If you are so incredibly over-sensitive, you probably should just wear shades all the time, so you won't see anything that might offend you. Or just curl up in a room full of cotton wool, to protect your over-sensitive wee soul from the real world. Or maybe you could just grow up!

#60 But Davida -- the English, Irish, Welsh & Polish aren't a different race from the Scots & here in Aust. we say "Australians" & that is anyone who takes out citizenship -- doesn't matter about race.
I won't make any silly jokes about bingo lovers.

To claim referring to the viewing public of a station broadcast only in Scotland as Scots is racist is one of the most stupid things I have ever encountered.

#58 - That is certainly a reasonable position from which to argue, but don't claim we'll be no more independent as an independent state within the EU than we currently are within both the UK and the EU, when patently that is not the case.

The EU may be becoming more integrated, but it is nowhere near as integrated as Scotland currently is with England. You know that and I know that.

60

It also excludes those who dont love bingo whether they are Scots or not. Hardly a good example of racism.

For all those of you who haven't quite grasped the point I'm making I'm going to use CAPITAL LETTERS:
WHY, IN A SUPPOSEDLY CIVILISED COUNTRY IN THE 21ST CENTURY, IS IT NECESSARY TO USE A PERSON'S RACE OR NATIONALITY AS A TERM OF ADDRESS?? IN TODAY'S MULTI-CULTURAL SOCIETY, OF WHAT RELEVANCE IS A PERSON'S ETHNIC ORIGIN?
TO REFER TO A PERSON IN THIS WAY - WHEN HIS OR HER RACE/NATIONALITY IS OF NO RELEVANCE WHATSOEVER - IS, ACCORDING TO THE DICTIONARY - RACIST.
Thank you and goodnight.
www.world-of-crap.blogspot.com

49. Erse, Middle East
“ Robbie, Yane et al - There has been absolutely nothing here about the elections in fact a lot of my English and Welsh colleagues didn't even know about them. There has been plenty coverage of the forthcoming French elections though.”

Brilliant - exactly Erse - it’s the same here. this is the strength of the internet - we can get at least get a glimpse of the truth. Tim Cornwell, Eddie Barnes and the Scottish media and journalists in the past could say what they wanted - often really quite (how do I say this) at variances from the truth!!!!!
Headlines like ‘Focus of the world's media turns to Scotland’ by Tim Cornwell are just sop-for the Scots to pretend that the World knows about them. Sure in some paper some where on page x there maybe an article but to actually construct a headline that the World knows about the Scottish election is the greatest example of a (have to say it) dishonest media. They have never spread any understanding of Scotland abroad and if you’d met any of them - you’d know why- ability to put words together and hold their drink.. Sorry Bill and other Scots as I don’t wish to sink to abuse but I hold myself back from knowledge of Scot’s ‘reporters’ at least in the past and I doubt they have improved - but oh! what egos and Eddie what a photo.
Come on those of the Scottish Diaspora - is your maids mentioning the Scottish election - we have to clarify this Scotsman headline.

Geez -- an' here's me thinkin' he was a cool guy --

#37, Robbie NZ - Hi robbie just thought I would report sitting in JHB, S.A. I have DSTV, Showing SKY/BBC/CNN none of these channels are reporting on Scotland so far it's all been France and Nigeria. I am hoping that with 8 days left coverage will pick up, now that france is over till after our elections. BTW Good luck for later today against the Sri Lankans

#69 Robbie -- is this becoming yer white whale? Everyone will be interested in the election results I am sure....that's why they're over there....

#65 Who are you with you're cutting and pasting - AM2 in disguise?? Cut and Paste it OUT.

Davina, I think you've been answered enough that anyone born in Scotland is a Scot - unlike the English practice.

As for differentiating between English and non-English, our politicians have been doing that for the past 300 years.

#12 Robbie - Bugger all here in Oz! A minor curiosity on an ABC current affairs show, 'Foreign Correspondent', I think. No-one knows, or for that matter, even cares. For a country with such a Scottish influenced heritage, you'd think some of these witless, antipodean yokels would take an interest. Remote and all as it is here in the Alice, we're not on the bloody moon. Maybe we've missed something but I don't think so. Mind you out here, they seem to more interested in performing unseemly acts with camels that Kiwis (and Scots), are often accused off with sheep. Gawd help us!!!

68
Let me type this slowly so you can take in every word.
Why dont you try travelling aboard without a nationality and see how far you get.

Davina, re-your #68:

BECAUSE WE ARE PROUDLY SCOTTISH AND DO NOT MIND BEING CALLED SCOTS IN THE LAND OF OUR BIRTH.

Health alert as vast tide of sewage spills into the sea
David Lister, Scotland Correspondent

This is what one Englsh paper says.
You are so dirty that Englsh call you dirty, filty and you want to comment on the freedom. Is this a plot or not I have no idea . But better investigate. It is better to check fact then jump in the dirty water.

Sir
Why dont you send some of your beautiful calenders to Tanzania ,me, then I talk of all the cleen scots say 45,00000000 I distribute sell then come back top you and send one to Balire. He may alter the headlines

#68. Davina's Big Mouth
I have to say I'm quite fascinated by this whole subject of the much proclaimed "Multi Culturalism" ,Particularly when Islam comes into the equation. A religious culture which doesn't allow for democracy. (In fact it banns it on pain of death! It being in contradiction to the Koran)...
This then brings into play the matter of a state's sovereignty over an individual's freedom, and that opens a huge can of (Dare I say "unsolvable") political worms.

Mrs.T

Are you wantin' the second Top Story Firozali?

Blair and Merkel lean on Bush to join battle against climate change
By Geoffrey Lean, Environment Editor
Published: 15 April 2007

Here Is any one from Scotland coming No so you are clean????

33 alasdair:

so does that mean that if you had a choice between independence and keeping your job, you would choose independence on moral grounds (since money is not important)?

thought not...clearly the economic consideration are very important..

81: seek help buddy

39 & 43

Me too! I'm Scottish and while the use of Scot or Scottish can hardly be termed racist there is undoubtedly a nasty and xenophobic streak in much of what emanates from the current Scottish nationalist bubble. Much of what is coming out demeans Scotland and its people. It contains a meanness of spirit which contrasts very unfavourably with the openness which characterised Scotland when it achieved a little greatness for the only time in its history as part of the United Kingdom.

Not to worry - come the referendum on 3 May, and notwithstanding the current disaffection votes which may go temporarily to the SNP, we will see that independence has been decisively rejected. Any further talk of a referendum will become superfluous. We Britons of goodwill can then get down to the business of creating an agenda for Scotland and Britain consistent with our common history and commensurate with a mentality appropriate for the 21st century.

It's time - to get back to reality.

39 - You are out of order with that comment.
I'm sorry that you seem to take offence at being referred to as Scots or Scottish when in Scotland. Is it just that you don't aspire to be being Scots ?.
When the majority of population sees themselves as other than Scots then the PC "people of Scotland " might be used. The Pakistani population see themselves as Scots-Asians therefore the term is appropriate in this context,and the same can be said about the Chinese. Neither the Americans , Canadians, French and Germans use the politically collect "people of.." term prevalent in England.
Try reading up on our rich history and maybe even
form some empathy with this country rather than moan about how the press refer to you. . I've been a migrant in Holland , US, Ireland and Italy and at no time did I find it offensive when referred by the collective national term, in I fact I was delighted and viewed it as compliment when someone mistakenly identified me as a national It showed my efforts to assimilate and integrate were bearing fruition. Perhaps , this is the real problem- too many displaced people unable to make the slightest investment in the host country they find themselves in .

If you really want to see some racist , xenophobic poison look no further than your own best selling newspaper.- The London Telegraph. A vicuosly anti- Scottish rag of which there is no equivalent in Scotland.

#35 Upbeat

What a wonderful misnomer you have :-)

The Swiss had remarkably similar natural advantages and disadvantages to the Scots. Fortunately they were not swamped by naysayers and have had no inclination to invade Iraq or anybody else for many centuries. Their self belief has allowed them to advance to the achievements that they have made. Had they not gained their freedom from the Hapsburgs and Austria (and had the wit. luck & courage to retain it) no doubt they would have had their own "Upbeat" to tell them how impossible it would be for Switzerland to be independent.

Success in life and for nations is often a matter of WILL.

There is a strong sense of pride in Scotland right now and her people are about to make the momentous decision to go all out for our freedom on the world stage. Jocks ! be proud and embrace our heritage. For 1000 years we have been free but those with wealth and power n Scotland have kept us tied to a diseased , corrupt union to advance their own financial interests and greed. Lib dems !! deny Scotland her wishes at your political peril as with you or without you SCOTLAND WILL BE A FREE AND PROUD NATION. NOW IS THE TIME .

86: a matter of will and a little bit of nazi gold along with african dictators' stolen millions to help..

Well my fellow antipodeans, it's ANZAC Day tomorrow and the airwaves will be ear to ear pibrochs and laments. Pipes will be skirlling and drumsticks twirlling. But not one of these skirllers and twirllers will have even the remotest idea that the country of origin of their musical inclinations will for the first time in 300 years, be facing it's own destiny. Maybe we already are independent and don't realise it.

*68
RACE/NATIONALITY IS OF NO RELEVANCE WHATSOEVER - IS, ACCORDING TO THE DICTIONARY - RACIST.
Thank you and goodnight.

is that an English dictionary then?

Thank you and goodnight!

79

You can easily apply those religion v democracy sentiments to Northern Ireland.
Christianity doesnt preach democracy either it asks for total obedience and submission to God and Christ.
Lets keep religious bias and predudice out of the debate.
It wasnt too long ago when you could have been barbequed for expressing views against Christianity.

number 39, I have to agree with the above posters. You are excluding yourself voluntarily from the definition "Scottish". It is by no means necessarily a race-based definition. You choose to make it so, and that itself holds the key to your dilemma.

I'm somebody you'd describe as a Scot, but your own postings have arbirtarily excluded my friends within the Sikh community who happily describe themselves as Scots & Scottish. You seek to deny them the right to define themselves in this way, revealing your own tendency to racism. Go away and think carefully about this before you start attempting to label the progressive Scottish Independence movement as racist.

There's been abundant evidence on these boards that racist opinions are unfortunately held by a small minority of people on both sides of this debate.

To go further and try to portray the broadly positive Independence movement as being inspired by bigotry is little more than mudslinging.

It'd be far easier to portray the unionist movement as being inspired by bigots, given the number that have turned out to publicly support it during this campaign, but we know that's not the whole picture either, don't we.

84

You seem to be under the impression that the UK was created as some kind of benevolent entity to all involved. when in fact it is a result of English expansionist politics for the benefit of the English and England. It is no accident that England is the dominant force within the UK with its greater population and its seat of power down South.
We have been subjegated and controlled from the SE of England for over 300 years. We have at no time ever voted in a party of our choice. Every party voted into power has been chosen by the voters of the SE of England and if the voters of the SE of England vote in a Tory government to Westminster and we in Scotland vote in a LIB LAB pact again into the Scottish parliament you are going to find out the hard way where the true power in the UK lies and just how significant a devolved Parliament really is.

#88. ayrshie, Drongan, Ayrshire.
I don't know where you learnt your history of Scotland, as I have to tell you your view of any freedoms in Scotland only really came about after the 1800s when the agricultural reforms that were introduced, (from England! And I don't mean the clearances!), took effect. Before that life for the ordinary person was total subjugation and poverty. Don't think that all the Scots who fought at Colladon wanted to be there..they were pressed men in most cases.

Mrs T

there was a wee man from fife
who would not divorce his wife
this was because
he had no baws
to lead an independent life

VOTE SNP!!!

LIB LAB got together like FLIP FLOP, HEARTBURN HICCUP

#88.
It's gonna be one helluva party!! They'll be people dancing in the streets, people singing and drinking and lot's of merriment that we are all rid of those pesky English chappies. We will be able to at last have a decent relationship with our southern neighbours and support them in the World Cup (maybe not!).
We'll be the talk of the world.
I would really, really like that to happen in an ideal world!!

Next day, when you wake up with your whisky head, youll suddenly have to pay higher taxes to fund Republica Scotia as we'll be 11 Billion shy of our budget. We'll all suddenly realise that our manufacturing base is minute and an unusually high number of people are working for our public sector (compared to other european nations).
The only thing keeping us above water is tourism and dwindling oil revenue.
Nightmare!!

#99, it is that water that will keep us above everything else yowser. it is our biggest natural commodity outside oil and will allow us to run hydroplants to power the nation.

on top of that we can sell our water to england in their times of need during summer and pocket a tidy sum

We are doing that now!

99

Prove it!

you talking to me eric? even better. if they depend on it, raise the price, supply and demand. we can also punt them the new green energy we can create too.

scotland has so much going for it, we are revered the world over, classed as THE best football fans in the world, dunno about the ruggers bu ti bet one or two on here will. we have tourism coming out of our ears, the biggest srts festival in europe if not the world, we are the home of golf, the natural beauty of our country knows no comparison, the sealife and fishing that would come home to scotland. there is soooo much going for us. the only part that is lagging behind is us. the people. we need to get up off our collective arses and make this happen. now, for mine and yours.

5 million folk in Scotland - lets get independence and model ourselves on our Scandinavian neighbours instead of following London into turning the UK into an extended state of America.

How do YOU want the future of Scotland to look?

Wars / illegal occupations
McDonalds
Obesity
Guns
No rights for workers
No JOBS for workers - only McJobs
No free healthcare

Or....

Higher taxes / higher services
Safe streets
Healthcare
Looking after our aged and our children

104.
We are doing all that already with tourism! The revenue from tourism is targetted by VisitScotland to double in the next ten years. Ironically that plan could be endangered by separation in an SNP government.

105

Prove it!

103 No mate it was just some Nuggat being Dooh:)

DOH, when you come online check out what the Swiss journalist has to say about the result - more than a week out.

Looks like my prediction of SNP - 55 may be a bit light!!!

Oh my lord I'm a racist!!!! I've just referred to a jounalist as SWISS!!!!

Away an' bile yer heids ya numpties.

What a ridiculous series of post. Nothing to do with nothing but everything to do with attempting to inciting unwary comment.

99
Fraser of Allander ,who have produced many economic models of Scotland ,(a world respected organisation) plus numerous professors in economics and political disciplines disagree with you,plus in McCrone we have conclusive proof that London has been lying for at least thirty years.In fact its longer ,the last accurate accounting of Scotland was around 1958 and the contents were diluted thereafter because it was so overwhelmingly in favour of an independent Scotland. London continued to publish doctored figures after this and still does.If London had been doing what she should have been doing there would be no need for a report by McCrone because she should already know the case for Scotland !She was telling us she did!In fact the opposite was true and the facts were then duly suppressed.
You are talking Unionist numpty nonsense. Ive known about this since 1966. You still don't know anything about whats really been happening. Even John Biffen (a very senior Tory indeed admitted on a TV interview that he supported the Union because he was an Englishman, and she benefited from Union with Scotland.If he had been a Scot he would never have joined the Tories,he would probably have joined the SNP who are correct.Scotland is being ripped off royally. This is what John Biffen said !
You should try opening your eyes .Its all around you!
You are being ripped off,and you don't even recognise it after its been explained.
104
Tourism would increase with increased awareness as in we again have our nationhood.
If anything it would benefit Scotland and there is no logic to thinking otherwise.
Do you perpetrate this rubbish or do you actually believe it?

105 BULLS****

I have been here in Sydney for 3 years now, not 1 advert for Scottish tourism on Australian tv in that time.
If Scottish tourism is to increase the we have to sell a Scottish package.
To make the statement that a Government who has Scotland as its only focus of attention would harm our tourism, is proof that your a*** and mouth have changed places.
Wake up to yourself or get out.
S****bags like you are the reason we will go for the independent option on May 3rd.
No wonder ITS TIME

Why do some of these comments remind me of Ally MacLeod and Argentina in 1978?

Thats a whole lot of people travelling a long long way for nothing then. Because there is no way the majority of Scottish people will vote for the SNP.

#104, Christopher - Couldn't have said it better, however you forgot about all the good will around the world which will also be focused on a new Independent Scotland

#116 Greig frae oz: I see that democracy is not something that you SNP supporters are fond of. Nevertheless, it exists and as such I am free to air my views as I see fit.

I do not believe that the majority of Scots will sell their country down the river in order that some anti English rogue politician with no serious chance of delivering on his empty promises can take over. It wont happen and rightly so!

Thats my opinion! Lets see what happens shall we

Please keep posting all you nay-sayers, no-one reading these threads will be in any doubt what's been holding us back and what the solution is.

Robbie,NZ, sorry to be so late in getting back to you, sometimes The Scotsman does not recognize me. In answer to your question at post#37, I have seen only the tiniest blurb in the Washington Post, and that only once. However, i have a friend in the press corps for a well known Calif. Senetor, who i have managed to get interested in the upcoming elections. Perhaps as 03 may gets closer? Anyway, sorry again.

A point, of which some may not be aware, in comparing us to the Quebecois is that if we obtain independance we will not be holding anyone hostange to that independance. The English would compare to Canada West of Quebec. They will be just fine. But in Canada what will happen to the provences East of Quebec? They are already severely depressed economically and would, possibly, become 'American'. Which most of them do not want, but feel they could not avoid in order to survive. A vote for Quebec independance would shatter the lives of people in the east who would have no hope of survival on their own.

Haven't seen a single word about the Scottish elections over here. A complete non-event. The world can't even find Scotland on a map, I'm afraid, never mind care about the election. Whether you want to admit it or not, Scotland is a minor league country regarded as part of England. Independence will make it a minor league country that has even less significance.

Greig frae oz.

You don't have the brains to formulate an argument, you just resorts to swearing at everyone and anyone who disagrees with your knunkleheaded opinions.
Oz is not far away enough for the likes of you!

12 There was in fact a reasonable piece on OZ ABC's Foreign Correspondent last Tues about 20 minutes long.
39English press is interesting. You are British should you win/succeed at anything.Scottish should you lose.

Surely the definitive reason for independance is quite simple.We are a Nation .We should surely be governed by ourselves. Make our own mistakes/triumphs.
There will be "teething" problems of course,but surely they'll be worth it.

I share the view expressed by Sir Hector Munro at #44, that we should vote in the light of what we consider to be the most appropriate government structure for Scotland in the future, bearing in mind that the world in which Scotland has to exist is a vastly different place from what it was even 20 years ago. Having closely observed the international scene, and also developments in Scotland, for several decades, I have come to the conclusion that events are now definitely moving in the direction of independence, that this movement can no longer be reversed, and that we had better start preparing for what will be a very involved reorganisation of government functions. This is not 1707, and a complex modern state cannot be dismantled overnight.

I will hear no word said against the historic achievements of the social democratic movement, but the main necessity at this election is to get rid of the Labour Party, which for generations has been an incubus on the life and work of Scotland. No progress towards a more appropriate form of government will be possible so long as that degenerate and moribund albatross is hanging round Scotland's neck, obstructing necessary change and furiously defending its power base by any methods that come to hand.

Nor have matters been improved by the collapse of the centre-right sector in Scotland, leaving a huge and unhealthy gap in the political spectrum. Around a quarter of the Scottish electorate have been effectively disenfranchised thereby. What is the point of voting Conservative? The party has no forward-looking strategic vision whatsoever; it obviously does not even understand the nature of the developments that are taking place around it and leaving it bewildered.

This was the reason for the founding of the Scottish Enterprise Party (SEP), the only centre-right party to recognise the inevitability of Scottish independence as well as its necessity. That makes it an appropriate recipient for the votes of

121.
You sound like some sports jock (except your not Scottish, you were unfortunate to be born American).,
which incidentally is a country not "minor league" as you say, but a country which is despised and feared throughout the world, with an imbecile for a president.

The world is full of successful "minor league" countries.
No americans know where Monaco is but they have a far better standard of non-polluting society than USA.
SMALL IS BEAUTIFUL!

So, Jose in California, who thinks Scotland is an insignificant little place, why the h*** do you bother to read, and comment, in the Scotsman??

and.......I might add, this isignificant little country has Scots lads over in Iraq, helping your country out, fighting side by side with y'all....

An apology is in order

125. I am in fact Scottish. I agree that the US does in fact have an imbecile for a president. As does the UK, and the Scottish parliament, which I voted against, has more than it's share of imbeciles. Monaco is successful for reasons that Scotland couldn't possibly emulate (glorious weather, favourable banking laws, millionare residents), so that is a bad comparison.

What exactly respresents "Major League" then ?
Obsession with other countries oil, warmongering, major contributor to greenhouse gasses, uncontrollable gun culture, galloping obesity etc, etc, etc.....?

If you are indeed Scottish you should be thoroughly ashamed of yourself.

My comment was not meant to denigrate Scotland, just a statement of fact. I have travelled all over the world and I can safely say that outside of Scotland, I've not met a non-Scot who knew that Scotland was not "a part of England". It used to annoy me, but now I realise that no-one knows otherwise. Many Asians have never even heard of Scotland. Independence wouldn't change the perception.

You can't put "other minor league politicians" in the same "ball park" as George W. Bush. He is the living breathing personification of imbecile. And what's more he is the worst kind. He has the finger on the button.

Yowser2-you've got that right. Imagine living in the same city w/him?

129

You are partly right in that many people outside of the UK dont differenciate the UK with England but you are wrong in that Independence wont change that for Scotland in the same way as it changed Ireland.

133

Well it doesnt help when Politicians and the media give us Britishness as fish and chips, Big Ben, London buses, the spice girls, black pudding, The Beatles, Coronation Street, The England football team, the England Rugby team, the BBC, cricket, the royal family, Roast beef and Yorkshire pudding
etc anyway you get idea.

WARNING

Post [39] is a plant.

It is supposedly from an "English" person worried about all the racist connotations arising from an overuse of the words "Scots" and "Scottish" in the press and media, (I am not making this up) as is the immediate follow-up post [43] from a "Scotsman" who says, "I am also concerned about these matters."

Beware of answering false posts or Trolls, or we inadvertantly serve their purpose. I suggest we ignore all racist comments ... bite your lip, folks, and move on.

Let's insist we talk about the people who live in Scotland and how they and us will benefit from a strong, united, single nation, and indeed how it will free us to see the world in a more generous light.

LA

127 - Jose

You may agree that Americans refer to England as England or now and then as "Britain" - they rarely if ever use the term United Kingdom or the British Isles.

They consider anyone living in England or "Britain" as "Brits."

By that I mean they use the name "Britain" not as a collective noun covering Scotland and Wales, but in reference only to England.

It does not occur to them to question Scots as anything other than a separate nation for they always differentiate us from the English. Consequently, they tend to express surprise when told we are a northern provence or region of England and "Britain."

If they are inclined to error on anything it is when hearing a Scots accent.

More often than not they ask, "Are you Irish?" In other words they are attuned to the Celtic. The Irish have been a pioneering nation in America ever since immigration began, and indeed like the Jewish lobby the Irish lobby is very well orgainised politically. St. Patrick's Day is one obvious example of Irish presence in the USA, a holiday taken seriously by most Americans.

Irish is an acceptable error quickly corrected.

Americans know some of their illustrious forefathers were Scottish, like Carnegie, but are intrigued to learn Allan Pinkerton, was a Scot, a street fighting rebel from the Gorbals.

LA

#124
Agree - powerful historic forces are at play which are not reserved powers at Westminster: European integration, end of Empire, disintegration of European multinational states, etc.

The coverage of Scotland's date with destiny gets little coverage out here.

Interestingly (at least to me) three Scots now here in Vancouver and myself were chatting at the local pool, two were flying home for the big day. All four of us were born in Scotland, all four hold EU passports,and all would if allowed,vote in the May election.

They say they too would vote SNP. It would be of genuine interest to see the percentage of exiled Scots that would vote for freedom, and for a country to truly call home.

136

And Davy Crocket, Jim Bowie, John Paul Jones,
18 of George Washingtons general staff during the war of Independence and Alexander Graham Bell to name but a few of the many Scots/US heros.

#127
No way Jose?
favourable banking laws - we can make those, millionare residents - come back Sean! More seriously they will be a consequence of ealising our fantastic potential,
glorious weather - well okay, 2 out of 3 aint bad,

#140 - or even "realising" our potential.

Re: 129. Jose in California

True story--yesterday, in the teacher's lounge, we were discussing the outside world's perception of the United States (not good), when I made a passing comment about Scotland's possible independence and how it might affect US policy in the Middle East whereupon I was meet with incredulous states and the question, "Isn't Scotland a part of England?" As succinctly as possible I explained the difference between the two entities.

I haven't heard anything about the May elections in the American media, and this includes "The New York Times", although I acknowledge that I might have missed it.

#142 Peter Baleares: I agree with you! But please note that not all Scots are sad Anti-English bufoons.

144 145

You two are a sad act. This is a very important political debate for some and you want to make it personel. I have spent a lot of time in England on and off and have experianced all manner of predudice and racism but I gave as good as I got which is how to deal with it in the real world.
Political correctness is not the answer to racism and predudice its accepting that it exists and is inherently human. Meet it head on and dont flinch away from it and dont winge about it afterwards.

Hmmm? A few new names on the posting list today. Diatribes mostly. First thoughts were that election weeks coincided with breeding season for trolls (who must have a very short gestation period and immediate maturity into yobhood). Second thoughts seem the same as first thoughts. Well, anyway, as this is a blog I've decided not to paragraph it. Thought the article was about media coverage from the world towards Scotland. Shame the comments have strayed so far from the story.

So 5 German newspapers are covering the Holyrood election - I'd like to know which ones they are! I've lived here fior a wheen of years and read the quality newspapers - and I've still to see anything about the Scottish election. I also subscribe to TIME and am wondering why there has not been a single word about the 2007 election in there either....

149. Es ist wahrscheinlich weil dei Zeitungen haben irgendwas anders, vielleicht Deutsche Sachen, worueber zu melden.

Please forgive mistakes. I returned in 1975

In all the arguments put forward by supporters of the Scottish Tory, Scottish New Labour and Scottish Liberal-Democrats against the Scottish National Party they all avoid the obvious situation that these parties are controlled by Westminster whether they have the name Scottish in front of them or not. One word from Westminster and they do as they are told. Whether the Scottish National Party decides to have a referendum on seceding from the Union does not matter. It alone is not controlled from London and if Scots want a fair share of oil income and control of other income from the EU they had better vote Nationalist otherwise nothing will change. The devolution game was merely instituted to keep you quiet until the North Sea oil is exhausted. If you are dumb enough to think otherwise then you deserve your current status.

Funny No Canadian paper has turned its eyes to Scotlands election. On the other hand the Nigerian election was covered as well as many others. So, perhaps international news only covers the elections in countries rather than interior provinces like Scotland. After all do you get coverage of the BC elections in your newspapers?

152. No. What happened before christ is a denominational issue and not a nominational issue.

152. No. What happened before christ is a denominational issue and not a constitutional issue.

153. I don't tell people to s**** hedgehogs although I'm told I should wish it on them. But that's negative.

#146 Boyce: We are talking generally!

If Scotland drew Argentina in the WC, the English nation would not bat an eyelid. Sure they watch the game, most would want the Argies to get a right doing, the others would not really be interested. Instead they would be more interested in what England was doing or about to do. Whereas in Scotland, if the game was Arg vs Eng there would be more Argentina strips sold than any other. That is the saddest thing about some Scots, that they pass by the opportunity to love and live for Scotland by focussing all their attention on hating England..So sad!

86 Tom R.
You wrote :

" no doubt they would have had their own "Upbeat" to tell them how impossible it would be for Switzerland to be independent."

Nice thought. But you are really not keeping up on these daily boards any more are you.

This "Upbeat" has never said the things you wish the other Upbeat to say.

What I have said is that it is not necessary or wise for Scotland to be independent in the way that the SNP proposes.

And the real Upbeat is that approx 60% of the Scottish electorate are not proposing to support the SNP's wish list either.

BTW I am not sure that you have real understanding about modern Switzerland. Perhaps you should go and speak with Kate. She seems to think she does :-)

As for me I only spent more than a decade working in and around Switzerland ..half of every week....

159. If you think I talk in riddles you must have a sieve for a brain. Get it?

Let's play spot the troll

I've just got to say that, unfortunately, the media here in Cali isn't paying any attention at all to the scottish elections, which is typical. That's not because we don't care, its because the american media doesn't bother to report much of anything that doesn't have to do with America's impirial aspirations.

anyway.

for whatever its worth I'm a 10th generation american, 8th generation californian. My ancestors left scotland over 200 years ago fleeing an empire and looking for the independance from england they couldn't win at home and scottish americans were the backbone of the revolutionary army here that won that independance. Now the tables are turned and america is the empire and Scotland is poised to win her independance at long last. if scotland wins its independance I'll be on the next plane over filling out my immigration paperwork.

An independant scotland will have no shortage of friends and allies, you can be sure of it! You'll also gain much greater representation in the EU parliment (small nations get super-proportional representation - malta has 4 reps compared to scotlands 7, even though scotland has 12.5 times as many people as malta. the difference is that malta is independant!) and you'll become eligeable for EU development funds. The FDI that has propelled Ireland out of poverty will sonn pour in as well. As part of the UK scotland can only hope for more neglect and theft of resources (oil and water); but as an independant nation Scotlands outlook is so much brighter. I obviously can't vote in this election, but I'm literally begging you here.

VOTE SNP, BURY THE BRITTISH EMPIRE ONCE AND FOR ALL!!!!

159. checkout a thesaurus. a riddle is a sieve.

apologies if I mix up my i & e. spent a few years in Germany and was fluent until 1975. Notice there has been no response from the man who purports to read quaality newspapers in German.

164. You're the one that told me to be nasty. It's not like that in Stenhousemuir.

Now, did I tell you about my just turned 13 year old son? Cryogenics experts assure me he is mine.

Did you hear about the one-armed man who was walking past a group of Peter Balearics who asked him where he was going?

He said he was going to change a lightbulb

I've got the receipt

Twenty-one years ago, I was picking up a few things in a small shop in Dumbarton when, referring to a prominent display of Irn Bru, I asked the young Pakistani behind the counter if "this stuff were as good as they say?" In Toronto, in a similar situation, I could expect a bad imitation of Peter Sellars in return; instead, this is what I got: "Och, aye! It's the most poapular dr-r-rink in Scoa'land!". I was in no doubt that the young man was a Scot, and I hope he votes for independence. Btw, I am so old I began life as "Scotch"; now I'm keeping it going with scotch.

Let's play sopt the troll

sorryRobbie,the snp elections was in the Wellington Dominion Post less than 2 weeks ago also on N B C Talkback news.cheers

Thanks for all you 'exiles' [Comment is Free, U.S. -- Yane, Melbourne - Kate, Switzerland - Erse, Middle East - Tru Scot, S.A. - Jimbu, Alice Springs - Buckpool Loon, Cheshire - Jimbu, Alice Springs - Greig frae oz, Sydney - 2dogs in D.C. - Jose, California - LA, Los Angeles - Dekester, Canada's westcoast - E. Smith, Texas - Cailean, Germany - Drylaw, Adelaide Sth Australia - williamx, Delta, Canada - Peter Baleares, Spain
- lynx, California] who reported the almost total lack of coverage in the World's press or at least where we are living. This does show that eventually (if not already) the way the internet can be used to confirm or refute stories in domestic newspapers. Yane, it's not my 'Moby Dick' - just interested if in fact the Tim Cornwell 'Focus of the world's media turns to Scotland' was a bit of an exaggeration as we had not even one word about it in NZ. Drylaw, in Australia was, I think the only one who had seen a mention on a current affairs programme, ABC's Foreign Correspondent.
There won't be many posts from Australia and New Zealand today as it is ANZAC Day:
< http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/ANZAC_Day > one of our main public holidays commemorating the landing at Gallipoli in World War I. Already been to the 'Dawn Service' and breakfasted at the RSA now it's a family day - free from computers.

171. was at the birth. it was a kaiserschnitt - just like my other first born in Germany 80 years previously.

Saw him taken from inside his mother, umbilical cord raised ceilingwards until the elasticity forced the masked man to say, "it's a boy".

Why don't you try to cut out the troll crap? You actually sound like you could be a decent contributor on these forums if you dropped your mask.

95, 146 Boyce.

Try to divest yourself of that chip on your shoulder and read 157.

173. Sorry. With regard to 177. Oh sorry, sorry, sorry.

Going back to the story. Scotland is not seeking independence, as seems to be suggested. The UK is a treaty-based association of two countries - Scotland and England - both of which dissolved their respective parliaments in 1707 to create a new single UK parliament. If Scotland decides to leave the UK, then the UK itself ceases to exist, as the only other signatory to the Treaty of Union is England. That is, unless England wants to call itself the 'United Kingdom', which seems illogical.

"Consequently, they tend to express surprise when told we are a northern province or region of England and "Britain." 136.(spelling correction mine)

Hey, when did this happen?
Gings, you go to do the messages and come home to find you've been annexed and, according to 127, they put in a president!!!

World's going to hell in a handbasket!

138 There are 6 of us here, on 'the Island' who would. That takes us up to 10 or 11, will that help?

152, I thought the Globe and Mail was Canadian?
http://www.theglobeandmail.com/servlet/Page/document/v5/t...

On this link alone I count 5 articles on the subject, the latest published today.

more of the same small narrow "village minded" nonsense from the Scotsman again.... and I used to think it's was only the Japanese media who were the worlds most insular, narrow minded, village idiot writers of such garbage. Here the media write articles and give huge TV coverage to stories about the coverage the foreign media are giving some Japananese story..say an earthquake or a sensational murder of a foreigner.The story about the foreign media's coverage is usually bigger than the original story.Grow up Scotsman who care who's come to report just as long as the people vote SNP and be done with three hundred years of serfdom.

Actually, I have not read or seen any reference whatsover that really mentions the Scotland issues in American media. There is, of course, a little coverage of UK/Blair. There is a lot more interest in the upcoming French vote. Personally, I am a bit saddened by the breakup that seems to be a very strong possibility. I think that I understand Scotland's strong desire for greater autonomy; it is only natural. Best of luck to you. Beware of having even less autonomy in 20 years time in the EU.

#68-Davina's Big Mouth....aptly self-named....
Here in Canada, as in the USA a huge amount of the population refers to THEMSELVES as hyphenated citizens....are you calling them racist???
Give me a break, what these people are doing is showing they are citizens of the country with an ethnic attachment. French-Canadian, Italian-Canadian...etc.. it matters not, we're all Canadians.
For you to imply that Scots are racist for using the same expression or something similar is absurd in the least, and quite possibly racist in itself!!

watched Jack McConnel being interviewed tonight. Absolutely pathetic. That man definately doesn't believe in the strength of the Scottish people. He just wouldn;'t give an inch tonight. and did he answer any questions straight off? Not really. I was still waiting to hear what he thought of the party with the largest amount of seats NOT being allowed to govern because certain other parties would join in coalition. Can you believe the cheek of the man? Does he think that the electorate will sit back and say nothing if the SNP romp home with seats aplenty and they don't get to govern?

#158 Upbeat

I find your response confusing and not particularly relevant. It does not appear to refute the points I was making.

As to Switzerland, I have visited a number of times, and am in regular contact with my cousin who has spent over 20 years working there for the World Health Organisation

There is not much coverage in most newspapers on the push for Scottish Independence that I have seen. However, that does not mean that is no interest in the affairs of Scotland in the USA. There is a tremendous pride in the ex-patriated sons and daughters of Scotland, and in the first and second generation "Grandchildren of Scotland." I am one of those "Grandchildren of Scotland."

Every St. Patrick's Day, it seems that the whole world becomes Irish. But, there are over 2,000 Renaissance Faires and Highland Games performed in the USA annually, not to forget NationalTartan Day (April 06), and a million kilts (however poorly worn) are donned, and people at every event carry the Lion Rampant and The Cross of St. Andrew marching in some form of Scottish Regiment. Enough bagpipes are played and drums beat, and Scotland the Brave sung to drown out 10,000- 747 Jumbo Jets!

Read what one theatrical Scottish Clan feels at www.macpolk.org about Scottish pride.

#186 Jemima. If Jack Macconnel is the best "Scottish Labour" candidate for First Minister they can dish up then God help us! His exposure tonight on Newsnight Scotland was even worse than Cathie Jamieson last week. What a babbling idiot he appeared. Like every TRAINED Labour spokesperson he NEVER answered the question but "talked thro'" any embarrassing situation. His diatribe against the SNP was like the vile reporting in the "Daily Record" today together with "The Sun". The more they deride the SNP the more the voters will take their revenge on this gutter press. Just like Tommy Sheridan did with another Murdoch paper, the "News of the World". All tits and scandal!

Where is our friend AM/AM2? Posting leaflets for Annabelle or David Trimble?

178

So do you think whether or not I have a chip on my shoulder has any bearing on the state of the Union today. If not why mention it? why not join the debate instead and give us your point of view if you have one.

If the United Kingdom is to become disunited how long before Scotland reverts to its old divisions? It will be a tragic day for both Scots and Sassanachs if the SNP gets its silly way!

SCOTTISH ELECTION NEWS IN OZ

Sileeeeeeence

Jimbu

Your back. Weeshooie and me thought you were lost, wandering thirst crazed through the endless sands. We were going to have a wee dram in your memory. Now we can have it to celebrate your return.
I just wish we could vote.

Wiz

Oddly enough, I hadn't seen any news here until tonight , the National did a 15 minute segment on the up coming vote. It was quite interesting and they filmed in Glasgow and Edinburgh. They showed interviews with people in Edinburgh, some were for independance and some were happy the way things are. They report went on to say that less than 40 % of Scots are for independance. If that is the case, then the SNP supporters will have a lot of work to do in the next week or so to get the vote out. regards

194

Youre not seriously suggesting we would go back to the old Clan system are you?
Was that a serious attempt at a comment or a piss take?

174. boomerang
Hi boomerang, thanks for that - never saw it. I get the Wanganui Chronicle. Has there been any mention on any of the TV channels?
I have just watched an hour of BBC World Service which had news, sport, weather and business reports from all over the World but not a mention of any elections - again I may have missed it but if not for the internet I would know nothing.

Long may the Union remain. United We Stand. No Surrender.