Scotland’s largest union backs calls for indyref2

Scotland’s largest trade union, Unison has backed calls for a second referendum. In a meeting of Unison’s Scottish council they voted in favour for indyref2 at a time to be determined by the Scottish parliament.

The motion voted calls for a vote to be held to transfer powers from Westminster to Holyrood.

Unison’s Scottish convenor Lilian Macer said, “This in no way pre-determines the views our members may take in the event of an independence referendum, but they should have the opportunity to express their views.

“Unison Scotland defends public services and those who deliver them and it is imperative that we explore the full range of options available to the people of Scotland.”

SNP deputy leader Keith Brown MSP said, “Unison is the latest respected body to support a transfer of powers so the Scottish Parliament can hold a fresh referendum at a time of its choosing.

“The democratic right of the people of Scotland to determine our own future cannot be ignored by Westminster.”

Scottish Greens co-leader Patrick Harvie MSP said the move was a “totemic moment for the independence movement.”

He added, “Unison represents members of different party political persuasions, but its decision to back an independence referendum, at a time to be determined by the Scottish parliament, recognises the democratic deficit that we currently face.”

However, a spokesman for the Scottish Conservatives said “All the time Nicola Sturgeon wastes on her indyref2 obsession would be better spent on the crises her party have created in Scotland’s schools, hospital and public services.

“The SNP must end their constitutional obsession and get back to the day job.”

Unison’s Scottish convenor Lilian Macer said, “This in no way pre-determines the views our members may take in the event of an independence referendum, but they should have the opportunity to express their  views.

“Unison Scotland defends public services and those who deliver them and it is imperative that we explore the full range of options available to the people of Scotland.”