“Given the choice between devolution and independence – I’d choose the latter”

Not as you might think the position of a fundamentalist Scottish Nationalist, but the position taken by former Scottish Secretary Michael Forsyth, and other prominent Scottish Conservatives prior to the 1997 General Election. 

Despite such political posturing, following the creation a devolved assembly the leadership of the Scottish Conservatives gave up their opposition to devolution and accepted the “will of the Scottish people.”  Against a background of policy failure by the Scottish Executive, the Scottish Conservatives have failed to provide any new policies to meet Scotland needs. The only firm commitment seems to be to bail out a minority Labour government, hardly a traditional Conservative message.

Outwith its leadership, a number of Scottish Conservatives have embraced the concept of “fiscal autonomy”; that the Scottish Parliament should have full tax raising powers, making MSPs more accountable to the electorate.  Other figures on the Scottish right have been prepared to go one step further and embrace an independent Scotland.  The Union may historically have served Scotland well, but devolution has weakened the Union and delivered an unstable constitutional arrangement. An independent Scotland could thrive as a low tax, limited government, an enterprise-based economy, creating increased wealth and prosperity for the Scottish people.

Whilst the SNP maintains a “left of centre” position, the party has always been a broad nationalist coalition.  The party has many conservative-minded members, who have perhaps not had the opportunity to promote market-orientated policies.  It is not difficult to see the similarities between self-rule and self-reliance, patriotism and nationalism, individual freedom and independence. 

Conservatives for Independence seeks to be an online discussion forum for centre right activists in Scottish politics.  Aiming to bring together supporters of the free market in Scotland, we will challenge the Unionist status quo of the Scottish Tories and the left of centre consensus of the SNP.  The group has no intention of standing candidates in Scottish elections and will not campaign for or against either of these two political parties.