Rennie offers SNP talks over reform

Oct 27 2012

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Willie Rennie has urged the SNP to come to the negotiating table should they lose the independence referendum.

In a speech to his party's Autumn conference, Mr Rennie said the Lib Dems would work with the other parties on a package of further reforms to the devolution settlement ahead of the 2015 General Election.

The party backs home rule - which would see "major transfers of power and authority" to Scotland, while remaining within the United Kingdom.

Speaking in Dunfermline, Mr Rennie said the policy would give greater financial power to the Scottish Parliament, with up to two thirds of spending raised through taxes controlled in Holyrood.

"This puts Liberal Democrats, once again, ahead of the debate," he said.

"The challenge for the other parties is to join us in this debate. We can work with them. All of us in the Better Together campaign want to win the referendum with a clear and significant majority. That will help to settle the issue of independence.

"To win big, people want to be assured that no to independence doesn't mean no to change.

"So I urge Ruth and Johann to start the dialogue with me and others on a new package of reforms, to be put to the voters in the 2015 General Election. A decision to keep Scotland in the UK should open the door to change across the UK."

He continued: "But the SNP have a role too. I know they didn't turn up for the Claim of Right, the Constitutional Convention, the Calman Commission or even the expert panel on the referendum question.

"If they lose the referendum will they join the discussion, to develop a sustainable, stable model for the UK? I believe they have a role and I invite them to join us. It's an open, genuine offer to the SNP. When you are ready we'll be ready for you."