The Scottish government outlined plans today to hold a referendum on independence for Scotland next year, although the proposal is not expected to get parliamentary backing.
The Referendum Bill is one of 13 proposed pieces of legislation that would be put before the Scottish Parliament, First Minister Alex Salmond said.
The proposal for a vote to be held in 2010 is unlikely to be passed as Labour, the Liberal Democrats and Conservatives all oppose the minority Scottish National Party government's plans.
The SNP took power with a minority government in May 2007, narrowly defeating Labour, on a manifesto promise that it would call for a vote on the issue.
Mr Salmond told Members of the Scottish Parliament (MSPs) that independence was key to unlocking Scotland's potential and to give it the best opportunity for future economic prosperity and to deal with global challenges.
"There is a glass ceiling at the present moment that threatens Scotland's progress. For as long as limits are set of what we can do and what we can achieve, we will never achieve our full potential," Mr Salmond said.
"It is time for the people of Scotland to have their say. Not everyone will agree with our vision for the future but the people of Scotland must be heard. This parliament should not stand in their way."
Other bills include plans to introduce a minimum price for alcohol -- a move so far ruled out by the Labour government in London despite recommendations from the country's chief medical officer.
"Alcohol misuse costs Scotland £2.25 billion a year in extra services and lost productivity -- nearly one-tenth of Scotland's annual budget," Mr Salmond said.
Reuters