The man behind referendum 'Vow' now backs Scottish Independence

The ex-Daily Record editor would vote to leave the UK today

THE VOW: That famous front page from the 2014 referendum
Author: Clyde NewsPublished 14th Jun 2018

The man behind the vow of more powers for Holyrood made in the independence referendum has said he now supports Scotland leaving the UK.

Former Daily Record editor, Murray Foote, brought together the leaders of the three main UK parties, with all of them promising enhanced responsibilities for Holyrood if Scots voted to stay in the Union.

The commitment, made just days before the referendum by David Cameron, Ed Miliband and Nick Clegg, was at the time regarded as being key in persuading some Scots to vote No.

Murray Foote left the Record in February this year

In 2014, Mr Foote said he "believed a more powerful Scottish parliament was what the majority of readers wanted."

But he added if there was another referendum he would campaign for independence.

Writing in The Times newspaper, Mr Foote said: "For me, independence is about autonomy, allowing Scotland to meet success and failure on its own merit and not point an embittered finger of blame at anyone else.

"I have reconciled that independence would herald good and bad. I trust in us to solve the problems that will come our way. If so many other countries can, it is inconceivable that Scotland can't.

"The Yes campaign which brought our parliament back from the dead 20 years ago asked Scotland to take a leap of faith and to trust in ourselves.

"When we are next asked the independence question, I'll strap on my work boots and take that leap."

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon hailed his change of opinion on the issue as being "hugely significant''.

She tweeted: "That @murrayf00te - the architect of the 'Vow' - now supports independence is hugely significant. I'm delighted. Welcome aboard, Murray."