{"id":44636,"date":"2014-07-04T13:51:46","date_gmt":"2014-07-04T13:51:46","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/?guid=09f92c1427fb423fb6f697e7252c61f0"},"modified":"2014-07-04T13:51:46","modified_gmt":"2014-07-04T13:51:46","slug":"news-story-scottish-independence-referendum-alistair-carmichael-twitter-qa","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/?p=44636","title":{"rendered":"News story: Scottish independence referendum: Alistair Carmichael Twitter Q&A"},"content":{"rendered":"
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How to explain UK Government policy in less than 140 characters. That was the challenge for Scottish Secretary Alistair Carmichael when he took to Twitter this week for an indyref Twitter chat.<\/p>\n

There was a great mix of questions – some serious and some less so – and you can read them all here. This page will be updated when the remaining questions are answered.<\/p>\n

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Visit the Scottish independence referendum page for more information<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n

How do the Scotland Office plan to unite the country after this deeply decisive referendum when we vote No?<\/h4>\n

By concentrating on building consensus for more powers. We believe Scotland\u2019s better off as part of the UK and the indyref gives people the chance to decide Scotland\u2019s future. We need to deliver on promises and more powers for the Scottish Parliament.<\/p>\n

Why didn\u2019t you build consensus for \u201cmore powers\u201d already?<\/h4>\n

We need to decide to stay in the UK before we build consensus for more powers.<\/p>\n

If it\u2019s a yes indyref vote, will you advise Orkney & Shetland to \u201cdo a Crimea\u201d & leave Scotland or stay with UK?<\/h4>\n

No. I want Orkney and Shetland to remain part of both Scotland and the UK. <\/p>\n

Do you think it\u2019s OK for Scotland to be used as a nuclear dumping ground?<\/h4>\n

All testing is in accordance with procedures agreed with the Environment Agency and SEPA.<\/p>\n

Which powers are guaranteed as per your adverts?<\/h4>\n

More tax powers and borrowing powers are coming to Scotland under the Scotland Act 2012. <\/p>\n

Why, if devolution works for Scotland, would further devolution towards independence be inappropriate?<\/h4>\n

Independence would end devolution. As part of the UK Scotland has the best of both worlds. <\/p>\n

If there\u2019s a no vote, how do we know the Scottish Parliament will get more powers?<\/h4>\n

New powers are on the way already.<\/p>\n

Do you see Scotland as a region or as a country unable to govern itself?<\/h4>\n

Neither. We\u2019re a proud nation best served as part of a union with our nearest friends and neighbours.<\/p>\n

Will the Scotland Office publish the full costs of the Scotland Analysis programme?<\/h4>\n

This work is routine government business so hard to give precise cost of keeping Scots informed.<\/p>\n

Will the Scotland Office demand the Cabinet Office publish the taxpayer funded polls they\u2019ve commissioned?<\/h4>\n

We regularly commission research as routine market research and this is not routinely published. <\/p>\n

Why do you condone the UK Government not promoting Scotland abroad as well as it should and appealing to other nations to support no?<\/h4>\n

The UK Govt is four square behind Scotland at home and abroad. Obama, Clinton etc speak for themselves.<\/p>\n

How many eggs do you think you could eat in one sitting? Just approximate, like 5? 10? 25?<\/h4>\n

Cadbury\u2019s creme eggs = no limits.<\/p>\n

If Scotland votes yes, do you believe we will prosper as an independent country?<\/h4>\n

I believe we will be more prosperous as part of the UK.<\/p>\n

How are we more likely to stay in the EU in an increasingly Eurosceptic country with an imminent in-out referendum?<\/h4>\n

There is no imminent in\/out EU referendum. <\/p>\n

Do you believe that jobs at Rosyth dockyard are more secure under a Yes or No indyref vote and why?<\/h4>\n

As part of UK we have access to UK defence contracts. That\u2019s good for jobs.<\/p>\n

How will staying in the Union reduce the number of people in Scotland relying on food banks?<\/h4>\n

Independence won\u2019t stop food banks. Scottish & UK governments should continue to work together to address underlying causes. <\/p>\n

Why are the UK Govt persistently putting out lies about Scotland, the SNP & yes campaign?<\/h4>\n

We\u2019re not. We\u2019re providing facts, figures, research and info to help people make an informed choice on Sept 18. <\/p>\n

Have you done the Facebook \u201cWhich Cabinet Minister are you?\u201d quiz & who did you get?<\/h4>\n

I\u2019ve done it three times – and I didn\u2019t get myself once! <\/p>\n

Where would you consider to be Orkney\u2019s greatest hidden gem? Somewhere the tourists don\u2019t know to go\u2026<\/h4>\n

Probably North Ronaldsay but any of the outer isles. <\/p>\n

If he thought independence was the best thing for Scotland would he vote Yes ?<\/h4>\n

I would – but I don\u2019t so I won\u2019t.<\/p>\n

Do you honestly believe that EU-based Scots will be sent packing after the yes vote?<\/h4>\n

If Scotland leaves the UK we leave the EU – it\u2019s not a matter of belief, it\u2019s a matter of law.<\/p>\n

How can you justify renewing Trident when so many people are in poverty ?<\/h4>\n

We are working to reduce poverty and we have a responsibility to protect national security.<\/p>\n

How do you deal with argument that Scotland gets a Westminster government it doesn\u2019t vote for?<\/h4>\n

Democracy doesn\u2019t mean everyone always gets the govt they vote for. But the UK govt represents interests of whole UK.<\/p>\n

Why do you want to call Scotland \u2018foreign\u2019 in event of yes as mentioned on #Marr show by you?<\/h4>\n

I actually said \u2018if Scotland were a foreign country to the UK\u2019. If we vote for independence that\u2019s what we become. <\/p>\n

Burning question, which would you consider to be the greatest Whisky ever distilled?<\/h4>\n

Tricky one – I\u2019ve a great fondness for Highland Park and Islay malts, especially Ardbeg.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t you think the Scotland Office should support all of Scotlands citizens and not just the no-voters in indyref.<\/h4>\n

The UK Goverment is not neutral on the issue of independence and I am always on Scotland\u2019s side. <\/p>\n

Do you get sick of Yes scaremongering claiming that we\u2019ll be punished for voting No? Because I do.<\/h4>\n

Nobody should be punished for exercising their democratic right. It\u2019s important we all make an informed choice.<\/p>\n

What are you going to do when you lose your Westminster seat?<\/h4>\n

I\u2019ll fight to keep my seat at the General Election. Politicians should never take the voters for granted.<\/p>\n

Do you believe that the debate through indyref in youth parliament makes case for Votes at 16?<\/h4>\n

Yes I\u2019ve always supported votes at 16.<\/p>\n

Even with North Sea Oil revenues, Scotland\u2019s run a deficit in 20 of last 21 years – good economics?<\/h4>\n

Scotland does well from being in the UK & strength & scale of the UK absorbs shocks.<\/p>\n

What is the timescale for introduction of new powers to Scottish Parliament, and will they be subject to a referendum.<\/h4>\n

New powers on the way already. No need for a referendum.<\/p>\n

Why do u feel the need to charge \u00a320 to attend your meetings, do you not claim enough in expenses?<\/h4>\n

That was a political party fundraiser in Helensburgh. There\u2019s never any charge for a government event or Q&A.<\/p>\n

Without resorting to the usual trite meaningless best of both worlds what is the positive case for remaining in UK?<\/h4>\n

It\u2019s the optimum situation for global coadjacent cohabition<\/p>\n

Very simple question, post independence can Westminster stop Scotland retaining the pound?<\/h4>\n

All 3 main UK parties have ruled out a currency union. We could use the pound like Panama uses the dollar \u2013 not a good idea.<\/p>\n

If there is a yes vote will you be on Scotland\u2019s side for negotiations?<\/h4>\n

I\u2019m always on Scotland\u2019s side.<\/p>\n

I\u2019m voting Yes for improved democracy and to get rid of Trident. Can you convince me not to?<\/h4>\n

It\u2019s your decision \u2013 but I urge you to make it based on fact. It\u2019s head as well as heart time.<\/p>\n

What are you planning to do next given that you will be out of work after the next General Election?<\/h4>\n

I\u2019ll fight to keep my seat at the General Election. Politicians should never take the voters for granted<\/p>\n

Would you rather spend \u00a3100bn on Trident or on the people being pushed into poverty as a result of Westminster austerity?<\/h4>\n

We are working to reduce poverty and we have a responsibility to protect national security<\/p>\n

Do you believe Scotland could survive as an independent country?<\/h4>\n

I believe we will be more prosperous if we remain part of the UK.<\/p>\n

I\u2019m undecided but can\u2019t figure out why we should buy nuclear bombs instead of health and education.<\/h4>\n

It\u2019s not an either or situation. We\u2019re committed to both protecting public services and national security.<\/p>\n

Which is more likely to get rid of Trident? The UK or an independent Scotland?<\/h4>\n

We have a responsibility to protect national security. The UK\u2019s strategic nuclear deterrent plays an essential part in the UK\u2019s overall defence strategy.<\/p>\n

Do you think Scotland is wealthy enough to be an independent country? Or is it too small?<\/h4>\n

I think Scotland will be more prosperous if it remains a part of the United Kingdom.<\/p>\n

Don\u2019t you think Scottish independence is inevitable some day?<\/h4>\n

No \u2013 that\u2019s why we\u2019re working to keep Scotland as part of the UK.<\/p>\n

Is Scotland wealthy enough to be a successful independent country?<\/h4>\n

I believe Scotland will undoubtedly be more successful and more prosperous as part of the United Kingdom.<\/p>\n

How much tax take from whisky goes directly to the Scottish Government?<\/h4>\n

No taxes go directly to the Scottish Government.<\/p>\n

Are you for or against trident? Do you support the retention of Trident?<\/h4>\n

We have a responsibility to protect national security. The UK\u2019s strategic nuclear deterrent plays an essential part in the UK\u2019s overall defence strategy.<\/p>\n

Is it appropriate that the You Decide page presents itself as non-partisan?<\/h4>\n

It states on these pages that they are representing UK Government views.<\/p>\n

The Scotland Analysis series has provided detail. Will the government also try to win hearts & minds in indyref? How\/when?<\/h4>\n

It\u2019s about hearts and minds \u2013 that\u2019s why we\u2019re providing a wide range of information, including a booklet going to every household. We also had a stand at the Royal Highland Show. More to come!<\/p>\n

If a yes vote, what will be your priority for our newly independent country?<\/h4>\n

I\u2019m working to keep the United Kingdom together \u2013 that\u2019s where I\u2019m concentrating all my efforts at the moment.<\/p>\n

Has the UK government made contingency plans for a yes vote?<\/h4>\n

We\u2019re working to keep the United Kingdom together. We haven\u2019t made any contingency plans.<\/p>\n

What will you do for the children who are living in poverty?<\/h4>\n

We need to continue to work with the Scottish Government to address this and improve the lives for children throughout the UK.<\/p>\n

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Like the Scotland Office on Facebook for more news and pictures<\/a><\/p>\n<\/div>\n<\/div>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"

Scottish Secretary Alistair Carmichael took part in a Twitter chat to answer questions on the Scottish independence referendum.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":8,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[13],"tags":[],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44636"}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/8"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=44636"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/44636\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=44636"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=44636"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/mostafa.openonline.co.uk\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=44636"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}