Member Article

Scottish Independence presents opportunities for North East

There will be many opportunities for areas both north and south of the Border if Scotland gains Independence, according to the Scottish External Affairs Secretary.

Speaking at the North East Economic Forum Conference, Fiona Hyslop was keen to stress that Independence would allow the North East and Scotland to enhance already-established links, whilst also working towards a common goal of economic growth.

“The main issue is to what extent two neighbours are fighting to maximum firepower, and that clearly isn’t happening for either of us, Scotland or the North East.” She said.

“Independence would draw upon new opportunities which build on the many values and interests we share, such as our desire to improve connectivity with the rest of the UK.”

Ms Hyslop also drew upon the resources available both in the North East and in Scotland, which she is keen to promote throughout Europe.

“There is a real opportunity, particularly in renewables, engineering and manufacturing for us to develop reputations as places which have real expertise.” She continued. “This is a win-win situation for all of us, and I am keen to ensure that Scotland gets the best effects of that.”

The question of Independence has also raised some concern in the North East, with many worrying that the region will miss out on key contracts if the bill is passed.

Online retailer Amazon recently made the decision to build its largest UK distribution centre near Edinburgh and hire another 750 staff, after receiving £2.5 million in support from Scottish Enterprise. However, Ms Hyslop was keen to stress that Independence could be of real benefit, both economically and politically for the North East.

“We’ve lost out on contracts to England and the North East at different times, but that’s part of a market where we have to compete - and we would be competing whether or not we gained independence.

“When you have a more distributed economic and political power base across a state, you have more equity within that.

“The problem we have in the UK is a system which is serving neither the North East nor Scotland well, and our message is that you shouldn’t see Scottish Independence as a problem, rather as an opportunity.”

In her address, Ms Hyslop drew comparisons between the North East and Scotland, which she believes should be able to identify their own priorities and make decisions about local matters.

“A strong, secure, independent nation to the north of Britain would not only lessen the economic dominance of the South East but will serve to shift the balance of power fulcrum to the regions, creating stronger partnerships between near neighbours and ultimately benefiting all these islands.”

This was posted in Bdaily's Members' News section by Ruth Mitchell .