Dramatic changes for the UK may be on the horizon

Anna Scott

The UK has “broad shoulders” which provide greater security and certainty, active labour market support and guarantees on pensions for people in Scotland. 

That’s the message of a paper from the Department for Work and Pensions, ‘Scotland Analysis: Work and Pensions’.

Four-and-a-half months away from the historical referendum which could see an end to the Union, and the government in Westminster has not quietened its campaign to keep the country part of the UK.

The ‘better together’ campaign suggests that Scotland can have ‘the best of both worlds’ through retaining its strong and proud identity while benefiting from the security and opportunity of being part of the UK.

This week the DWP backed up this message, highlighting the fact that employment and social security policy is reserved across the UK and pointing out that spending on pensions, benefits and public services in Scotland is more affordable when it is part of the UK.

The Scottish National Party-led campaign for Scotland to be independent suggests the country would be able to create new jobs and take advantage of a second green energy windfall.

An independent Scotland would be able to make decisions about its finances, particularly in light of the potential £1.5 trillion it predicts will be earned from North Sea oil and gas revenues, the SNP says.

Opinion polls have generally suggested a lead from the ‘No’ camp, keeping Scotland part of the UK. But the ‘Yes’ campaign has gained momentum since the beginning of the year.

On the one hand, a fear exists that there would be an exodus of employers from Scotland, and the country’s status as an EU member would be under threat. On the other, the SNP has suggested it will cut corporation tax, which could entice companies to set up camp north of the border.

For recruiters, oil and gas in particular is growing in importance, and the natural resources – not to mention renewable energy – in Scotland have allowed the industry serving this sector to flourish.

The polls suggest this could go to the wire. YouGov opinion research showed that 37% of all Scots would vote yes, while 52% would vote no. The results of the 18 September referendum could mean dramatic changes for all of us, not least recruiters.