Salmond Points to Seismic Shift in Scottish Politics

Speaking on the Adam Boulton show the SNP Leader Alex Salmond MP pointed to a seismic shift in Scottish politics with increasing support from the Scottish business community for a debate on independence following Sir Tom Farmer's donation of £100,000 to the party.

Commenting Mr Salmond said:

"Sir Tom's donation is greatly appreciated and only one sign of a seismic shift in Scottish politics in the business community and beyond.

"Another example was when the case was recently presented to the Scottish Dragons' Den in the Scots Parliament. When the parties' platforms were put it was the SNP's case which received unanimous approval from the panel and the overwhelming majority of the audience.

"It proves our economic platform is coherent and well thought through. And more in the business community wish to see it debated with many indicating approval.

"That represents a seismic shift from previous occasions when the independence argument was debated."

Also speaking on BBC Scotland's Sunday Live programme Mr Salmond pointed to the wider conversions to independence in Scottish society including the Tory historian Michael Fry and, only today, the prediction of the former Labour MP and arch sceptic Tam Dalyell.

This weekend, Mr Dalyell said of independence:

"I think it is inevitable. I can't imagine why anybody is surprised. I concede that independence may be better than a halfway house."

Commenting Mr Salmond said:

"We should not be surprised that when support for independence has reached a historic highs that conversions are taking place throughout Scottish society.

"Some of these people will approve of the SNP's programme and some won't, but important point is that the independence case is gaining ground."