Scotland’s bishops urged Scots to “all now cooperate for the benefit of our nation” after the country yesterday rejected independence from the United Kingdom.
Some 55.3 per cent voted to remain in the Union, and 44.7 per cent voted for independence.
Acknowledging the “passionate and sometimes partisan debate” the bishops urged the Catholic community, which polls featured in the Scottish Social Attitudes Survey indicated was largely pro-independence, to continue to engage in public debate.
Their comments were echoed by the Archbishop of Canterbury, Justin Welby, who said that the debate had raised questions for and been an example to communities far beyond Scotland.
"The decision by the Scottish people to remain within the United Kingdom, while deeply disappointing to many, will be welcomed by all those who believe that this country can continue to be an example of how different nations can work together for the common good within one state," he said.
"This is a moment for reconciliation and healing not rejoicing or recrimination. Some of the wounds opened up in recent months are likely to take time to heal on both sides of the border. The historically close relationships that have existed between the Scottish Episcopal Church, the Church of Scotland and the Church of England and our long involvement in mediation have a contribution to make as our societies not only reflect on the lessons of the referendum campaign but engage in delivering the radical restructuring of the relationship between Scotland and the rest of the United Kingdom for which commitments have been made."
In a statement the Scottish bishops commended the extraordinarily high turnout for yesterday’s referendum, which was as high as 91 per cent in East Dunbartonshire.
“The vast majority of Scots engaged with the Referendum and it is our hope that we can all now cooperate for the benefit of our nation in future,” they added.
Duncan McLaren, former secretary general of Caritas Internationalis, who had campaigned for a “Yes” vote, spoke of his disappointment at the result, saying that a small majority had deprived Scotland of self determination.
“I take heart from the Scottish people forcing the Unionist parties to devolve more powers to the Scottish Parliament,” he told The Tablet. “If those powers are not delivered, then there will be another referendum in future.”
He warned of a “shaky future for the Union” if the Trident nuclear deterrent system remained in Faslane in Scotland, and if economic power continued to reside in Westminster.
The academic Jim Gallagher said the campaign had been "a roller coaster".
"The result could not have more authority, and it is a very firm No, with a lead of over 10 per cent. First Minister Alex Salmond has resigned in consequence. The story is not however over. More powers are promised for the Scottish Parliament, and on a very brisk timetable. The fascinating thing will be the knock on consequences for the rest of the UK - Wales, Northern Ireland and England. Watch this space."
Loading ...
