Scotland Says 'No' To Independence, Happy To Stay With The United Kingdom

A majority of voters in Scotland overwhelmingly rejected independence from the United Kingdom in a historic referendum that threatened to break up the 307-year union between them.

The result comes as a relief for millions of Britons, including Prime Minister David Cameron as well as allies across the world, who were worried at the prospect of the United Kingdom's separation.

As per the media reports, nearly all the votes have been declared so far and only five, including Glasgow, Dundee and West Dunbartonshire, said 'Yes' and the vote against independence was comfortably leading by around 55%.

Alex Salmond, the leader of the 'Yes' campaign for independence, conceded defeat. He called on all of Scotland to respect the verdict.

"Scotland has by a majority decided not, at this stage, to become an independent country. I accept that verdict of the people and I call on all of Scotland to follow suit in accepting the democratic verdict of the people of Scotland," said Salmond.

Salmond also warned British politicians in London that they must respect their last-minute promise of more powers for Scotland. "Scotland will expect these to be honoured in rapid course," he added.

In a last-minute bid to convince voters to stay in the union, British Prime Minister Cameron had promised greater powers for Scotland's parliament.

The vote against independence saves the United Kingdom from losing a substantial part of its territory and oil reserves. It also helped the UK not to search for a new location to house its nuclear arsenal, which currently kept in Scotland.

The decision taken by the voters in Scotland also means that the UK can avoid a prolonged period of financial insecurity that had been predicted by some if Scotland broke away.
(Image: Times of India)