The Independence Debate
9.2 Occupational and Private Pensions
Existing occupational and private pension schemes would continue. These are primarily private contractual arrangements between individuals, employers and pension providers.
The Peoples Future Scotland
The Independence Debate
9.1 State Pension Continuity and Uprating
All accrued State Pension rights based on National Insurance contributions paid up to the date of independence would be fully protected and paid. People who have already built up entitlement would continue to receive their pension.
The Independence Debate
9. Pensions and Social Security
This is one of the public's highest-concern areas. These positions prioritise continuity of payment, protection of accrued rights, and a clear path to a fully Scottish system. All answers are achievable through negotiation and phased delivery.
The Independence Debate
8.5 Consumer Energy Costs
Scotland’s large renewable resources and potential to export clean power create opportunities for lower long-term costs and greater energy security, but only if the system is well designed and cooperation with the rest of the UK is maintained.
The Independence Debate
8.4 Renewables and Just Transition
Scotland would accelerate the build-out of renewable energy — especially offshore wind — as a core economic and export opportunity, while managing a just transition for oil and gas workers and communities.
The Independence Debate
8.3 Energy Cooperation with the Rest of the UK
The GB systems are highly integrated; Scotland is a major exporter of renewable electricity southwards and relies on wider system balancing and supply security.
The Independence Debate
8.2 Scottish Wealth Fund Linkage
A substantial share of net revenues from oil, gas and, over time, other natural resource income would be paid into the Scottish Wealth Fund. Strict, legislated rules would govern the Fund, modelled on the Norwegian Government Pension Fund Global.
The Independence Debate
8.1 Control of North Sea Resources
Scotland would control the oil and gas resources in its territorial waters and on its share of the continental shelf.
The Independence Debate
8. Energy and Natural Resources
Scotland’s energy position into a strategic asset. Control of resources funds the Wealth Fund, renewables provide the long-term growth engine, and practical cooperation with the rest of the UK protects consumers and system reliability.
The Independence Debate
7.5 Business Environment and Investment Attraction
Scotland would attract and retain business and investment by offering political and economic stability, a skilled workforce, strong universities, a clear long-term energy advantage, and a competitive but predictable tax and regulatory environment.
The Independence Debate
7.4 Competition and State-Aid Rules
The system would be designed to prevent anti-competitive behaviour and unfair subsidies while giving the Scottish Government flexibility to support strategic industries, regional development and the energy transition.
The Independence Debate
7.3 New Trade Agreements
Priority would be given to agreements that open markets for Scotland’s strongest export sectors: food and drink, energy and low-carbon goods and services, professional and financial services, advanced manufacturing, and tourism-related services.