Scottish referendum: Alex Salmond says Scotland can afford independence

The Scottish Government issued on the 21 May 2013 a paper which argued that Scotland could more than afford to be a successful independent country. The paper outlined the nation’s key economic strengths.

The document called 'Scotland's Economy: the case for independence' offered a consolidated picture of the country’s strong financial foundations, diverse economy, ingenuity and natural resources – all of which would help ensure a prosperous nation with independence.

But the paper also claimed that rising inequality under Westminster and consistent economic mismanagement by successive UK governments was costing jobs and depressing growth.

• Primary Source

United Kingdom, Scotland: The Scottish Government: News Release, 21.05.13: Scotland can more than afford to be independent http://www.scotland.gov.uk/News/Releases/2013/05/scotland-can-more-than-afford-to-be-independent210

ESO: Background information: Scottish Independence: Treasury claims savers would not be protected http://www.europeansources.info/record/scottish-independence-treasury-claims-savers-would-not-be-protected/

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