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British gov't promises more power to Scotland if it stays within union

(Xinhua)    10:53, September 08, 2014
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LONDON, Sept. 7 -- British Chancellor of Exchequer George Osborne has promised to give Scotland more power if voters there reject independence in the forthcoming referendum.

Speaking during a BBC's interview, Osborne said: " You will see in the next few days a plan of action to give more powers to Scotland; more tax powers, more spending powers, more powers over the welfare state."

"That will be put into effect the moment there is a 'No' vote in the referendum," said Osborne. And the concession from the central government would give Scotland the "best of both worlds" by avoiding the so-called "risks of separation", but having more control over Scotland's own destiny.

While Alex Salmond, the Scottish First Minister, responded promptly that the new proposals at this stage would "lake credibility", reported the BBC.

Salmond said: " Are we expected to believe, after hundreds of thousands have already voted, that there's a radical new deal?"

Meanwhile, the UK's Queen Elizabeth II has "a great deal of concern" about the prospect of Scotland breaking away and has asked for daily updates on the progress of the campaign, reported the Sunday Times, citing a royal source.

The latest poll result fueled the fears and uncertainties on the future of the 307-year union.

According to YouGov Plc's survey for the Sunday Times, "Yes" voters have increased to 51 percent, while the "No" side has slided to 49 percent, when undecided respondents were excluded.

Scotland will hold the referendum on Thursday, 18 September.

(Editor:Kong Defang、Bianji)
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