IN spite of disappointment on the part of those campaigning for a 'Yes' vote in Scotland, some positive gains have been made.
A serious and passionate debate about the future of Scotland was followed by a huge turnout, which throws out a challenge to the rest of the UK; impressive and mature participation on the part of young people, often voting for the first time, especially 16- and 17-year-olds.
The 'Yes' campaign played a vital role in raising questions about our current constitutional settlement.
– questions that will not go away simply because of a narrow defeat.
People feel unrepresented and neglected by Westminster policies and politics. We need to have a debate about the future of the whole of the UK.
We now have an opportunity to revamp our political system – starting with “devo max” for Scotland, local and national voting reform, including lowering the voting age, a written constitution, and a review of the role of the House of Lords.
DAISY BLENCH Green Party, Parliamentary Candidate for North Herefordshire, Luston
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