[0762]

Both these initial two questions re EU membership and a Scottish currency are what I'd classify as 'red herrings' previously debated before and during referendum year 2014 and I think the solutions to these 'created quandaries' have been refined by the SNP hierarchy since the 2013 White Paper was published when said issues were covered in it. My personal view is that EFTA is a valid option for a small country like Scotland and esp after watching the highly questionable behaviour of the EU re the Spain-Catalonia conflict and other 'delicate political issues'. The government of Great Britain falls into that category of criticism as well btw! There are other northern Euro countries that trade very well under an EFTA banner and I see no reason why it would be any different with Scotland and the fact we would still be trading with UK countries anyway - contrary to the unionist 'bullshit'/scaremongering that was previously uttered on this issue that all trade would cease - rubbish! Re the choice of Scottish currency, again I think a lotta thought has been put into providing a simple workable solution after all the previous unionist nonsense that centred on this very issue. My view is that Scotland has always held it's own Scottish pound/currency and one simply uses it when the appropriate transfer of currency is required. I must emphasise there are solutions to any kinda probs like the ones that are described - THEY ARE NOT INSURMOUNTABLE!! That is one of the main reasons why a comprehensive White Paper was compiled and published by the Scottish govt - it generates constructive debate and many of the issues listed in the paper can be 'refined' through time - it is a good, solid 'starting point' and also note there is a study and blueprint to be unveiled by the Growth Commission and it will cover future prosperity in an independent Scotland!! It's a case of choosing the best, workable options and 'going with it' and there is a good chance that some of them will evolve anyway as many other UDI countries have experienced before! The issues are not unique and it's all part n parcel of good governance and progressing positively as a separate state with new challenges and new aspirations to look forward to.