Independence referendum not a 'deal-breaker' for Tavish Scott

Published on Thursday 14 April 2011 20:03

SCOTTISH Liberal Democrat leader Tavish Scott has hinted the issue of a referendum on independence would not be a "deal-breaker", in a potential coalition with the SNP.

Mr Scott said his preference would be for a "stable Scottish Government" and that he would talk "constructively" to whichever party won the most seats in May's election.

His comments marked a change from the party's position at the 2007 election when the Lib Dems ruled out a coalition with the SNP because of plans for a national vote on independence.

Mr Scott said: "My preference is to form a stable government for the future of Scotland. I believe we can get more done."

Asked if a referendum would be a deal-breaker, in terms of forming a coalition, Mr Scott said: "I am not saying anything is a deal-breaker because I just don't think that's sensible politics.

"The deal-breakers for me are: do parties want to work on jobs, on education, and on keeping police local? Those are the things that really matter to me."

Referring to the referendum, Mr Scott said: "I just don't think it'll come up."

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