Scottish Affairs CommitteeWritten evidence submitted by The Church & Society Committee of the Synod of Scotland of the United Reformed Church

Submission on First Inquiry—Referendum on Separation for Scotland

At its meeting on 29 October 2011 the Church & Society Committee of the Synod of Scotland of the United Reformed Church considered the terms of the first enquiry released on 12 October 2011. On Scottish matters the Synod of Scotland speaks for the whole United Reformed Church.

The United Reformed Church submits that the Scottish National Party was the only party to have a referendum in its manifesto at the Scottish Parliamentary elections. Having been endorsed by the Scottish electorate the Scottish Government has a mandate to take the matter forward. No other body has sought or received a mandate for such a referendum; therefore no other body has the moral authority to do so.

Submission on Second Inquiry—Referendum on Separation for Scotland

At its meeting on 29 October 2011 the Church & Society Committee of the Synod of Scotland of the United Reformed Church considered the terms of the second inquiry released on 12 October 2011. On Scottish matters the Synod of Scotland speaks for the whole United Reformed Church.

The United Reformed Church submits that there are a number of issues where Scotland currently appears disadvantaged which the Rt Honourable Michael Moore MP, Secretary of State for Scotland might usefully address prior to any referendum. These include broadcasting, the national grid and the Crown Estates.

November 2011