Meeting of the Parliament 22 December 2022
I find it somewhat ironic that there are those who are seeking to deny our democratic debate that highlights how the current constitutional settlement is denying democracy in Scotland.
Frankly, the case for the people of Scotland being given the choice and the chance of a better future is becoming stronger every day. Inflation is running at 10 per cent, household incomes are predicted to fall to 2014 levels, the economy is in recession, people are facing the horrific choice between heating and eating this winter, millions are facing eye-watering increases in their housing costs in 2023, and Brexit, of course, is compounding all of that by creating labour shortages, trade barriers, higher business costs and lost tax income. All of that shows that it is time for the people of Scotland to get the chance to choose a future in which they are wealthier, healthier and happier.
I will never apologise for encouraging Parliament to debate the right of the people of Scotland to choose their own future.