GREENS TO DEBATE YES SCOTLAND LINK

10 June 2012  

Members of the Scottish Green Party are to be given the opportunity at their conference in October to decide what sort of relationship to have with the SNP's Yes Scotland campaign. 

Greens are not nationalists but believe it is best that decisions are made close to the people they affect. Party policy is to support independence and currently advocates a multi-option referendum. 

Scottish Greens also advocate an elected head of state, a written constitution drawn up by the public, a shift away from reliance on oil, an end to submarines with nuclear weapons in Scottish waters and implementation of policies that tackle inequality.    

Party co-convener Martha Wardrop, Green councillor for Glasgow Hillhead, said: 

"Social justice, progressive economics and environmental issues are paramount and bind Greens together, which is why we are comfortable having a range of views in our party on independence. Most Greens are for independence but we feel it is important to give all members the chance to discuss how closely we associate ourselves with Yes Scotland." 

Co-convener Patrick Harvie, Green MSP for Glasgow, said:  

"If we are to formally sign up as a party we need to know on what terms. We don't want to end up simply cheerleading for the SNP. It's entirely possible the membership takes the view that Greens help shape another pro-independence referendum campaign.  

"Independence is a chance to change Scotland for the better, not stick with business as usual." 

Yes Scotland was set up and is controlled by the SNP. Mr Harvie accepted an invitation to speak at the launch in May, and signed the campaign declaration but warned that Scots would need a clear, compelling case to vote Yes. 

The Scottish Green Party conference takes place on 6 and 7 October at Maryhill Burgh Halls in Glasgow.