Catholic historian backs Scottish independence in spite of scepticism

A leading Catholic historian has lent his weight to the pro-independence movement by announcing that he will vote “Yes” in the forthcoming Scottish referendum, writes Brian Morton.

This represents a change of heart by the author of more than 30 books on aspects of Scottish and Irish history. In an interview with The Observer, Professor Sir Tom Devine, who began the campaign as a firm No supporter, said that he had been persuaded by the regeneration of the Scottish economy and by a more confident political and cultural landscape. He said that the Scottish parliament had demonstrated “competent government” and that Scots had preserved the British ideals of fairness and compassion better than the English who moved away from these in the 1980s.

The Church in Scotland has maintained a neutral stance on the question. The referendum takes place on 18 September.