Scotland's economy benefits from a range of advantages that few other countries of similar size can match. Our natural wealth is a key foundation stone for a prosperous future as an independent country. It is reasonable to believe that a country as naturally wealthy as Scotland would thrive if it were to gain the power to manage for its benefit.
There are indications that the EU would welcome an application from an independent Scotland. Full membership of the EU may take up to a decade to complete. As a new member state, Scotland would probably have to take on the normal obligations, which may include the use of the Euro. A hard border with England would be the consequence of EU membership. Even a looser relationship, similar to Norway, with the EU would require a customs border with England.
Failure to sort out the current border chaos would mean the UK economy would be in free-fall and, given that Scotland exports more than twice the amount of goods per head than rUK, our economy would be hardest hit.
An independent Scotland in the EU would have the same border checks as the UK has. With the right agreement border checks can be electronic, pretty seamless and not physical whether in or out of the EU.
This is the three times a year report on the Scottish economy in an international context.
This paper gives key statistics in graphic form showing such things as: Population 5.4 million, GDP as £166.8 billion or £30,530 per person, employment as 74.8%, unemployment as 4.2%, average weekly full time wage as £595, and many more.
With every passing election, Scotland seems to move closer to independence. Investment Monitor explores the obstacles the country would face should it leave the UK.
Independence is about the right of people in Scotland to decide their own future
We’re the ideal size
Scotland is a wealthy nation with a big economy
We’re educated and talented
We have extraordinary energy resources
We export high quality produce and goods
We are at the cutting edge of the industries of the future
We’re big enough, rich enough and smart enough – even opponents of independence believe so
"We make the case for maximum devolution of power and responsibility possible at any time, particularly in areas such as the economic levers and business policies. In turn, this will allow a Scottish Government to boost economic growth."