The Scotsman cartoon - Carmichael enters the debate

Michael Moore has been sacked as Scottish Secretary with one year to go before the independence referendum.

The Scotsman cartoon 08/10/13

His replacement Alistair Carmichael, another Liberal Democrat MP, was described as a more “feisty” politician in what is seen as a change of tack by the UK Government.

Mr Carmichael said: “I feel privileged to take on the role at this key time. The Scotland Office and the UK Government have an important role to play over the next 11 months as we approach the referendum.

“It’s important the referendum should not be an abstract debate about nationhood. It is a crucial question of how we best shape our future together and how our lives and livelihoods are affected by the choice we make next September.

“I plan to make the strong and positive case for remaining in the UK passionately because this is an issue which truly matters to us all, both now and in the future.”

Illustration by Iain Green

MORE INFORMATION

• Michael Moore out as Lib Dems up referendum heat