I believe that Scotland should be an independent nation.  Scotland's future can be shaped for the better with the powers of independence; the independence that will give Scotland the same rights, responsibilities and opportunities as other nations.

Independence is normal

As individuals, we value our own independence.  We accept that it's entirely natural to make our own decisions, to earn and spend our own money, and to take responsibility for our own lives.  Why should we settle for anything less for our country?

As a nation, we accept the independence of other countries as normal.  We don't think it's strange that the people of Norway and Denmark run their own affairs.  We would not expect the people of Ireland or Sweden to ask another nation to take decisions for them because they didn’t feel up to the job.  Why should the people of Scotland be any different?

Independence is the foundation for success

I believe independence is essential for building a confident, prosperous and fair Scotland.  

Independence is not only the fair and democratic path for Scotland in itself; it is also the foundation for tackling the challenges facing our country in the 21st century - from enduring poverty, substance abuse and anti-social behaviour, to our nation's chronic lack of collective self-confidence.  With independence we can make our own decisions on important issues like tax, pensions, nuclear weapons, defence and foreign affairs.

Once we achieve equality for our nation through independence, we can then truly start to ensure equality for our citizens.

The SNP will always work in Scotland's interests

Until we achieve independence for Scotland, the SNP will continue to work hard as Scotland's Government in the devolved Scottish Parliament to deliver as much as we can, to improve the lives and futures of the people of Scotland.

Until the Scottish Parliament has the full powers of independence, many important powers will continue to be controlled by Westminster.  That's why it is so important to elect SNP MPs.  We must ensure that Scotland's voice is heard in London and fight for a fair deal for our communities.

More information

The SNP Website provides more information about independence and our proposals for the Scottish people to choose Scotland's future.  Click here to see more:  http://www.snp.org/independence.

You can also see the answers to some frequently asked questions on the Federation of Student Nationalists Website at the followling location:  http://www.snpstudents.org/index.php/independence.