| FOREWORD BY THE SECRETARY OF STATE FOR SCOTLAND |
The Government’s aim is a fair and just settlement for Scotland within the framework of the United Kingdom - a settlement which will be good both for Scotland and the United Kingdom. The Scottish Parliament will strengthen democratic control and make government more accountable to the people of Scotland.
Scotland will remain firmly part of the United Kingdom. Westminster will continue to be responsible for those areas of policy best run on a United Kingdom basis. These include foreign affairs, defence and national security and macro-economic and fiscal matters. It follows that the UK Government will continue to act in many areas of public life in Scotland but in future it will be the Scottish Parliament - working within the framework of the United Kingdom - which will be responsible for much of the business of government in Scotland.
The Scottish Parliament will reflect the needs and circumstances of all of the people of Scotland regardless of race, gender or disability. Scotland will no longer be the only democratic country with its own legal system but no legislature of its own.
With its new responsibilities, the Scottish Parliament will be in a position to encourage vigorous sustainable growth in the Scottish economy. Policies on health, housing and education will respond more directly to Scotland’s needs. The Parliament will work to protect and develop our unique environment and natural and built heritage and to enrich our cultural inheritance.
Like many others, I have campaigned long and hard for a Scottish Parliament over the years. I have never doubted the importance of the issue or the difference that a Parliament will make.
This reform will not in itself solve the problem of resources or banish the dilemmas of government. What it can do is connect and involve people with the decisions that matter to them. It can bring a sense of ownership to political debate and a new confidence to our affairs.
The argument for change has been sustained through the difficult days. Now is the time for decision.
There should be no further delay. This White Paper sets out in practical detail the Government’s plans to translate our manifesto commitments into a sound and durable constitutional settlement. It will be widely welcomed throughout Scotland. A referendum will be held on 11 September. The people of Scotland will make their choice. I am confident that there will be a resounding vote in favour of both propositions.
DONALD DEWAR