The Independence Debate
Arts, culture and heritage would be supported as core elements of national life and soft power, with stable funding and arms-length bodies accountable to Scotland. Gaelic and Scots would receive stronger status, educational support, and public visibility consistent with their place in Scottish life.
The Independence Debate
The television licence fee would end in Scotland. A new Scottish public service broadcasting arrangement — accountable to the Scottish Parliament.
The Independence Debate
Existing strengths in naval and commercial shipbuilding — particularly on the Clyde — and related engineering would be protected and expanded. Defence and civilian procurement would be used strategically to sustain high-skill employment and apprenticeships.
The Independence Debate
Public transport would undergo a full overhaul under complete Scottish control of rail, bus, ferry and related infrastructure policy and funding.
The Independence Debate
A properly funded national tourism strategy would focus on higher-value visitors, longer stays, better regional dispersal, improved infrastructure and transport links, skills, and year-round appeal.
The Independence Debate
Full control of trade policy, geographical indications and promotion budgets would be used to open and defend markets. The sectors would benefit from a stable sterling, a stable domestic market, and targeted support for innovation, skills, and sustainability.
The Independence Debate
Scotland would have full control of fisheries management within its waters. Policy would prioritise long-term stock sustainability, the viability of the Scottish fleet—especially smaller and coastal vessels—and the economic benefits retained in Scottish communities.
The Independence Debate
Farming and crofting would receive stronger, more tailored support under full Scottish control of agricultural policy and funding. The priority would shift toward food security, environmental outcomes, and a clear “buy local, support local” approach in public procurement.
The Independence Debate
These sector positions turn independence into practical advantage: more relevant support for farming and fishing, serious strategies for tourism and transport, protection of industrial strengths, and cultural and sporting institutions that answer to Scotland.
The Independence Debate
Islands and remote communities already have specific recognition and support mechanisms within Scottish policy; these would be retained and could be strengthened.
The Independence Debate
Local and national resilience arrangements would remain in place. Mutual aid agreements with services in the rest of the UK would be updated to ensure continued support for major incidents that cross or approach the border.
The Independence Debate
Policing and the core justice system — courts, prosecution and prisons — are already devolved and would remain under Scottish control without interruption.