Sir Menzies Campbell hails Scots powers ‘spirit’

Sir Menzies Campbell speaks to No supporters. Picture: Getty

The veteran politician said by rejecting independence Scots had the chance to vote for a “stronger and safer” parliament in Edinburgh.

He spoke out as the lengthy independence campaign - which he likened to an “iron man” contest - entered its final stretch.

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The former Liberal Democrat leader said: “We are now three short days away from facing the biggest decision of our lifetime.

“The iron man equivalent of political campaigns is drawing nearer towards the finishing line.

“The choice is clear. People can either vote to leave the UK, with all the risks and uncertainties that independence offers. Or they can vote for a stronger and safer Scottish Parliament within the UK.”

Sir Menzies, the MP for North East Fife, said that calls for further devolution of more powers to Holyrood had been “reinvigorated” during the referendum campaign.

All three main Westminster parties have put forward their own plans for transferring more powers north, including crucial responsibilities for income tax.

Former Labour prime minister Gordon Brown has been spearheading an accelerated timetable which could see more legislation passed before next year’s general election.

“It is clear that more powers for Scotland are guaranteed,” Sir Menzies said.

“Our delivery plan will guarantee change swiftly after a No vote, with draft legislation as quickly as Burns Night 2015.

“This is a guarantee of common endeavour and consensus - the same spirit which secured the Scottish parliament.”

He also argued the drive for more power for Scotland could lead to further devolution south of the border.

The veteran Liberal Democrat said: “The loosening grip of Westminster is already leading to radical change in all parts of the United Kingdom and the many cities which have seen more power handed back to them through the UK Government’s city deals. So, we can see that there is a growing UK-wide thirst for change.

“I believe that the United Kingdom is best served by continuing a partnership which has served us well; by recognising that constitutional reform is necessary to ensure that the structures of the United Kingdom reflect the aspirations of its people and the demands of a modern democracy.

“I have always said that Scotland does not need to wait to begin a federal relationship with the UK.

“Scotland can be the key to the door of political reform for the whole of Great Britain.

“We will not need to wait long before we can see a modern, federal United Kingdom.

“Federalism is within touching distance. Let us not walk away from a golden opportunity. Vote No for better and federal change for Scotland and the UK.”