Alex Salmond, Alistair Darling set for web debate

SCOTTISH INDEPENDENCE: FIRST Minister Alex Salmond and Better Together leader Alistair Darling are to hold a debate on the influential website Mumsnet tomorrow, as a poll of its Scottish users shows backing for independence.

It's expected to be the final head-to-head debate before the referendum. Picture: Getty

The webchat is expected to be the last direct clash between the two men before voters go to the polls on Thursday next week.

The poll carried out for Mumsnet, which has become a key indicator of opinions among female voters, showed 48 per cent for Yes, 41 per cent for No and 11 per cent undecided.

The poll is a significant boost for the Yes camp, which has been struggling to pick up support from women.

Justine Roberts, the chief executive and founder of Mumsnet, said: “Our Scottish users have been actively debating the referendum on Mumsnet.

“Many are firmly in either the Yes or No camp but a significant number are still very much undecided and we hope the webchat will help them reach a decision on who to vote for.”

“The issue of the economic viability of an independent Scotland has been raised far more frequently than individual household budgets in discussions, but the impact of independence on jobs, welfare, health and education are all areas of concern for Mumsnet users.”

Ms Roberts added: “Mumsnet users say they value a place to discuss the issues away from the relatively aggressive debates taking place in some of the mainstream media.”

• Get the latest referendum news, opinion and analysis from across Scotland and beyond on our new Scottish Independence website