Nicol Stephen calls for Devolution not Revolution

12.41.02pm GMT Wed 17th Jan 2007

On the 300th anniversary of Scotland's Parliament voting to join a union with England, Nicol Stephen MSP, Leader of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, has called for a serious debate about more powers for the Scottish Parliament.

Mr Stephen said:

"300 years on it is now important that there is a serious debate about the future powers of the Scottish Parliament.

"This is the positive alternative to the bitter battle between Labour and the SNP arguing between the status quo and independence.

"Scotland needs devolution not revolution. Polls consistently show the Liberal Democrat policy of more powers for the Parliament is not only the best policy, but the most popular as well.

"The best way to mark this anniversary would be the start of mature debate on increased powers for the Scottish Parliament to create a more competitive and confident Scotland."