Scottish independence referendum’s dates with destiny

THE Scottish Government’s declaration that the referendum will take place in autumn 2014 leaves a range of possible dates.

THURSDAY, 4 SEPTEMBER

The day is the first possible Thursday Alex Salmond could call the vote in autumn and is also the closest to the end of the Glasgow Commonwealth Games about a month before – a date that would allow the SNP to capitalise on the feelgood factor of the major sporting event.

THURSDAY, 2 OCTOBER

A date that usually coincides with the UK Conservative Party conference . This would allow Mr Salmond to warn of the possibility of an overall Tory majority.

Thursday, 16 October

About six weeks into autumn, the traditional length of an election campaign.

THURSDAY, 25 SEPTEMBER

The day before the start of Scotland hosting the Ryder Cup, below left.

Mr Salmond is a keen golfer and may be tempted to put the referendum close to the three-day event at Gleneagles.

Thursday, 30 OcTOBER

Despite the possibility of poor weather, the date would give Mr Salmond a two-month campaign period, with time to build up support for the Yes lobby.

SUNDAY, 30 NOVEMBER

St Andrew’s Day – Not autumn, but if there are public calls for a St Andrew’s Day referendum, Mr Salmond may be tempted.