HC Deb 15 March 1978 vol 946 cc413-4
1. Mr. Knox

asked the Secretary of State for Scotland what representations he has received about the date of the referendum on Scottish devolution; and if he will make a statement.

The Secretary of State for Scotland (Mr. Bruce Millan)

No representations have been made to me. The referendum will be held as soon as reasonably practicable after the Bill has received Royal Assent.

Mr. Knox

I assume that the Secretary of State agrees that the referendum should take place as soon as possible. If it is at all possible, will he give serious consideration to holding it in early September of this year?

Mr. Millan

I do not think that I can go beyond what I have said in my original answer. I certainly do not want to see unnecessary delay, and we shall hold the referendum as soon as practical after we get the Bill on to the statute book.

Mr. Buchan

Is the Secretary of State aware that the crucial point of the referendum was never put in our discussions? That was the second question, whether Scotland should go independent. Has he noticed that Lord Home of the Hirsel called for precisely such a question yesterday in the other place.

Mr. Millan

It is a very unusual alliance. I have heard the argument from my hon. Friend on numerous occasions. He also knows the Government's view on this matter, which has not changed.

Mr. Reid

If there is an overwhelming "Yes" by 39 per cent. of the electorate at the poll, will that not lead to a serious political confrontation? Will the Minister make it clear that there is no such thing as a mandatory referendum in the United Kingdom? There can only be a consultative referendum. No matter how the Scots people decide, the final decision remains with the House.

Mr. Millan

The 40 per cent. rule places an obligation on the Secretary of State to lay a certain order before the House, but, of course, the ultimate decision is for the House to take.

Mr. Sillars

Given that the Bill receives Royal Assent in July, what practical problems will there be which will prevent a referendum being held in September?

Mr. Millan

It obviously depends on a number of considerations, which I do not think I have to spell out to the House. The important thing to do at the moment is to get the Bill on the statute book. We are very confident of doing that, and I hope that we shall do so before the Summer Recess.

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