Inside the Indyref

Indyref: the Scottish Referendum of 2014 in which 84.6% of the Scottish public voted, making it one of the largest voter turnouts in British political history. This book is an inside account of the independence referendum campaign. It captures the highs and lows and twists and turns from a perspective close to the decision-making frontline, but far enough removed to offer a dispassionate and personal perspective of the unfolding events. Wishart takes the reader back to the energy, excitement and drama of the biggest political decision the Scottish people have ever been asked to participate in a truly immersive experience, with people previously uninterested in political campaigning engaged in trying to win for their respective camp. The referendum changed everything in Scottish political life and its influence is felt in every one of our political institutions, and remains indelibly embedded in our political culture. There is a very real sense that the many promises made around more powers for Scotland, made during the independence referendum by the uk Government, have not been realised. The independence referendum itself may be long concluded, but its impacts, effects and legacy remain very much live. There can be no doubt that many of the constitutional debates that continue to take place today have their origins in the absorbing and beguiling campaign for independence.