Now that the voting process has started in Scotland perhaps it is a good time to reflect on what is going on. As an Englishman certain thoughts come to mind:-
1) First, Independence. Noboby would deny the Scots the right to opt for it. After all, we do not want the sad, sad history of Anglo-Irish relations to be replicated as regards Scotland, or indeed Wales.
2) Voting. The denial of a vote to the English, Welsh and Northern Irish, or even the opportunity to express an opinion, is a great mistake. After all, the potential break-up of the UK will affect all members of it.
3) The SNP. Why ever didn't they present Scottish voters with definite, approved proposals for finance, currency, health, defence etc. Instead, they seem to live in an 'Alice-in-wonderland' world of make-believe. Just because they think they have rights does not mean that, in fact, they do so. Their attitude smacks of self-delusion and blackmail.
4) Federation. Rather than jumping blind into the black hole of independence, would it not be far more sensible to at least examine the prospects of increased regional and national autonomy under a federated system? Other countries have done it and it seems to work.