Scottish independence: MSPs debate issue of referendum votes for ex-pats

Ex-pats should be given a right to vote in the Scottish independence referendum, MSPs will be told today.

Labour backbencher Elaine Murray says it is “massively unfair” that Scots working and living outside the country should be denied a say in its future.

The issue will come under the spotlight in a Holyrood debate which Dr Murray has secured later this afternoon.

“It seems massively unfair,” she said.

“The fact is, with youth unemployment in Scotland rising, more young Scots are being forced to look outwith Scotland for jobs.

“It seems hugely unfair that they should be stopped from having a say in Scotland’s future.

“I hope MSPs from all parties come together to support the Let Wallace Vote campaign.”

Labour peer Baroness Taylor has already instigated moves at Westminster to allow exiles to have a vote in the referendum.

The Let Wallace Vote campaign was started by ex-pat James Wallace who is now working in the US, but is Scottish born and bred and wants a vote in the referendum.

First Minister Alex Salmond announced last week that the referendum would be held in 2014.