Scottish referendum: 1 year on

Speaking one year after the people of Scotland voted decisively to remain part of the United Kingdom, the Prime Minister today made clear that he is focussed on delivering devolution so that the debate can move on from what powers the Scottish Parliament should have, to how they are used to better the lives of the people of Scotland.

He also set out that the UK government will shortly table an amendment to the Scotland Bill to put beyond doubt that Holyrood is here to stay.

The Prime Minister said:

One year ago Scotland’s majority spoke.

More Scots voted to keep our kingdom united than have ever voted for any party in any election in Scottish history.

They voted decisively for a powerful Scottish Parliament within a strong and secure United Kingdom. We listened.

So let me be crystal clear: Scottish devolution is woven into the very fabric of our United Kingdom.

We will table an amendment to the Scotland Bill so there is absolutely no doubt: Holyrood is here to stay.

Alex Salmond, Nicola Sturgeon and I signed the Edinburgh Agreement which pledged we would all respect the outcome of last year’s momentous vote.

We all agreed – as do the Scottish public – that the independence referendum should be a ‘once in a generation’ or a ‘once in a lifetime’ event.

So now it is time to move on.

Some may want to obsess about separation.

But I am focussed on delivering devolution so that the debate can move on from what powers the Scottish Parliament should have, to how they are used to better the lives of the people of Scotland.

And today, on the anniversary of that historic vote, let me repeat: we are delivering a new, accountable and permanent Scottish Parliament. Holyrood will be one of the most powerful devolved Parliaments in the world.