Moore "Totally Unsustainable" Position

UK FAILURE TO PLAN FOR INDEPENDENCE “WEAK" AND “PUZZLING"
Michael Moore’s position was branded “totally unsustainable" and “letting down Scotland" today as he admitted the UK Government was making no contingency plans for the rest of the UK in the event of a Yes vote on independence and would not approach the European Commission for a formal view.

Scottish Secretary Michael Moore came under attack from the House of Lords Economic Affairs Committee. Baroness Kingsmill branded his responses “weak", Lord Forsyth said the UK’s refusal to negotiate was “puzzling" and former Conservative Chancellor Lord Lawson said Mr Moore’s position was “totally unsustainable".

Commenting on the Secretary of State’s performance, Annabelle Ewing who sits on the Referendum Bill Committee said:

“Scotland is capable of becoming independent and the UK Government is simply sticking its head in the sand.

“The Scottish Government is clear that officials could be discussing the steps to be taken in the event of a Yes vote now, so that the rest of the UK is as prepared as Scotland.

“Politicians will debate the issue all the way to referendum day, but the UK’s refusal to consider a Yes vote is incredibly arrogant.

“It is time the UK Government paid attention and put in the work they should be doing. Instead of spending their time spreading smears about Scottish independence and trotting the globe talking Scotland down, they should be ensuring that the UK is prepared to follow through on the Edinburgh agreement and implement a positive decision by the people of Scotland."

Notes:

The following criticisms of Michael Moore’s position were made at the House of Lords Economic Affairs Committee today:

Lord Forsyth: “I find it puzzling you say you’re not prepared to engage but saying you want the committee to be fully informed.."

Baroness Kingsmill: “I’m astonished by your remarks that there will be no discussion."

Baroness Kingsmill: “I find that a very weak answer."

Lord Lawson: “May I suggest Secretary of State that your position is totally unsustainable. You are letting down very badly the people of Scotland. You said Scotland is capable of being an independent nation, I agree with you; it’s a very fine country. Your failure is on the consequences of independence."