Is there a business case for Scottish independence?

摘要

Despite compelling arguments both for and against Scottish independence, predicting the likely economic impact of a 'yes' vote is almost impossible. However, amid all of the uncertainties, few would disagree that, in the short term at least, unpicking the complex links that unite Scotland with the rest of Britain would create some significant challenges for industry. So far, the 'yeso' debate has been an emotionally charged affair and despite a widespread acknowledgement that the economy is the most critical issue, the voices of the businesses essential to economic health have been disappointingly muted. A letter published recently in The Scotsman from a group of more than 130 business leaders with operations in Scotland is therefore an important addition to the debate (although not necessarily a welcome one for supporters of the 'yes' campaign). Warning that the business case for independence has not been made, the letter claims that uncertainty over currency, regulation, tax, pensions, EU membership and support for exports could hamper the growth of the Scottish economy at a time of record investment and high employment.