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Church joins the Conversation
03/05/2008
Scotland's churches must continue to make their voices heard in the debates that affect all our lives, Minister for Parliamentary Business Bruce Crawford said today.
Speaking ahead of a Church of Scotland organised event to discuss the National Conversation on Scotland's constitutional future, Mr Crawford applauded the Church for upholding its tradition of 'helping shape the conscience of the nation'.
He said:
"We recognise that decisions about Scotland's future are too important to be left to the political parties alone.
"For that reason during the second phase of the National Conversation we are talking to the main civic institutions of Scotland - and the Church of Scotland is one of the main voices of Scottish society.
"The Church cares about people and is not afraid to speak out on the issues that affect the people of Scotland and further afield. The Church was a keen supporter of devolution even when it was unfashionable. More recently it has been steadfast in its opposition to Trident and in speaking out against the unfair treatment of asylum seekers at Dungavel. It is no exaggeration to say that the Church has helped shape the conscience of the nation.
"This is just part of an impressive track record that makes their contribution vital to our ongoing National Conversation. That is why I am delighted that the Church has organised this event to talk about how Scotland might look if it had responsibility for areas currently reserved to Westminster - issues like employment, taxation and the economy, benefits, international development and foreign affairs.
"Around our shores, in Ireland to our west, Iceland to our north and Norway to our east we have three of the most successful nations in the world - countries that sit at the very top of world wealth and quality of life league tables. These nations, using their own wit and talents, have become rich countries and rich societies. Independence has been central to their success and I have no doubt that an independent Scotland would more than match them.
"I like the fact Norway is free to choose to invest more than the UN-recommended amount in international aid. I respect the role the Irish play in UN and EU peace keeping efforts across the globe. These are just a couple of the reasons why I believe that Scotland should embrace the positive, internationalist independence that Norway, Ireland and others enjoy.
"It is clear the status quo is no longer an option and the people of Scotland and all political parties support change. The only proper way to allow Scotland to move forward is through letting the Scottish people choose in a referendum. We are clear independence is the best future for Scotland - it is now time for others to state their position and put both options to the test."
The seminar to discuss the national Conversation has been organised as part of the 'Church Without Walls' event being held by the Church of Scotland.
It is on May 3 and 4 at Ingliston showground in Edinburgh.