Another top Labour figure is backing a Yes vote in next year’s independence referendum.
Alex Mosson, a former lord provost of Glasgow, revealed his support yesterday — two weeks after former Strathclyde Regional Council leader Sir Charles Gray said he was in favour of an independent Scotland.
In a statement issued by Yes Scotland, Mr Mosson, 73, said: “People need to realise that this is not about the SNP, Scottish Labour or any other political party. This referendum is all about us, the people of Scotland, and our right to self-determination.
“Once we achieve independence I’m sure people will start to regain their interest and engagement in politics, and that will be a good thing for democracy. But first we need to find our self-confidence and become a successful, more prosperous and fairer nation. I am totally convinced that only a Yes vote will get us to that point.”
Mr Mosson, a former shipyard worker, said the recent job cuts announced by BAE on the Clyde had strengthened his view.
“The industry has for years been far too reliant on Admiralty contracts for warships,” he said. “What we need to do is diversify and build a range of craft like cruise liners, ferries and offshore patrol boats. What we mustn’t do is allow all that skill, expertise and technology to disappear, and I fear that it is what is happening under Westminster. We need to be in control.”
Yes Scotland chief executive Blair Jenkins said: “Alex Mosson is giving voice to the views of a lot of Labour voters when he says an independent Scotland is more likely to produce the kind of society and the kind of values that people associate with the Labour and trade union movements.”
Hundreds of people are being invited to quiz First Minister Alex Salmond and his team of ministers about the SNP’s formal plan for independence. Businesses, trade unions, volunteers and others from “civic Scotland” will be able to ask about the white paper two weeks after it is unveiled. The event will be held in Edinburgh on December 10 and will be broadcast live.