Ins and outs of wrangle over referendum that has split governments

Who has the legal right to hold a referendum?

The coalition insists only Westminster has the authority to stage a legally binding referendum on constitutional change within the UK. The Scottish Government says all referendums are advisory by nature and it has every right to hold its own poll.

Does the legal status matter?

Yes and no. The SNP is almost certain to face a challenge in the courts if it presses ahead with its own poll, amid questions over its legal standing. But if a Holyrood poll attracts a healthy turnout, it would be very difficult for either administration to ignore the moral weight of its outcome.

Why has David Cameron intervened?

Alex Salmond and the SNP have been dominating the independence agenda. By questioning Holyrood’s legal authority to hold a referendum, the PM hopes to seize back the initiative. Only time will tell if this proves a political blunder or masterstroke.

When does the SNP want to hold the referendum?

The Nationalists did pledge during last year’s election campaign that the poll would be in the second half of this parliament – some time between 2014 and 2016. They are said to be keen on 2014 when the anniversary of the Battle of Bannockburn and Commonwealth Games in Glasgow could see national pride swell in Scotland.

Why is the SNP not keen on coalition demands for a straight “yes or no” question?

A straight rejection could have a crippling impact on the Nationalist movement. Salmond wants a face-saving option that would allow Scots to vote for “devo max”, which would see Holyrood get extensive new powers over most areas apart from defence and foreign affairs

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Can the Scottish Government block Westminster’s plans?

Yes. The mechanism proposed by the coalition must be approved by Holyrood. The SNP majority in Edinburgh means Salmond has the power to halt any Westminster-approved referendum in its tracks.

What happens then?

The big question is whether Westminster decides to stage a referendum itself. This would provoke fury among Nationalists and accusations that the coalition was interfering in the Scottish democratic process. This would be a huge gamble and could backfire if there was a widespread poll boycott.

Could the wrangling threaten the prospect of a referendum being held?

No. There’s widespread acceptance Scots will be asked to vote on independence – sooner or later.