Independence: Devo deal could come immediately

A DEAL on more powers for 
Holyrood over income tax, job centres and housing benefit should be struck soon after the referendum, former Scottish secretary Michael Moore has said.

Michael Moore has called for a new Scotland Act to be passed quickly after a No vote. Picture: Neil Hanna

The Liberal Democrat MP has called for a new Scotland Act to be passed quickly after a No vote to meet “raised expectations” among voters.

All three pro-union parties propose more devolution and signed a joint pledge to make this a reality. But Mr Moore said a “basic consensus” already exists in key areas.

“A package based on devolving more income tax, housing benefit and job centres is immediately achievable,” he said.

Mr Moore helped pave the way for the referendum to be staged as he led the talks for the coalition which resulted in the historic Edinburgh Agreement being signed by Alex Salmond and David Cameron.