On the 25th May 2018, after more than 18 months of preparation, the SNP-commissioned Sustainable Growth Commission made its final report – entitled Scotland – The New Case For Optimism – which has been presented as a series of recommendations on which could rest the economic, fiscal and monetary case for Scottish independence in a future referendum campaign. This document does not cover the full gamut of policies which would be directly affected by independence nor does it cover the full range of institution building required by a nascent independent state.

Common Weal looks at Fiscal Policy and provides an alternative prospectus based on ensuring wellbeing and equality for the people of Scotland.

The quest for GDP and GDP Growth is not sustainable in a finite world and this should also be recognised by an independent Scotland. Metrics such as environmental impact, inequality and wellbeing are far more important and only by elevating them above the quest for “growth at all costs” can a truly fair and sustainable Scotland be created.