Chance to quiz minister on independence

Scottish Justice Secretary Kenny MacAskill will visit Shetland this month to take part in a public discussion about independence.

Locals will get the chance to quiz him in Lerwick Town Hall and Mr MacAskill said he was keen to hear as many views as possible.

He said the event was one of a series across Scotland giving voters access to ministers and the opportunity to discuss “the exciting future we envisage following a vote for independence”.

Mr MacAskill said: “We’ve already put forward our proposals for Scotland’s future and demonstrated how the powers of independence can be used to build a wealthier and fairer Scotland, but it’s crucial everyone who lives and works in Scotland considers and discusses with others the sort of country they want Scotland to be in the future.

“Taking the referendum conversation out to communities across the country provides an opportunity for us to meet people from a wide range of backgrounds and hear their views on independence, as well as listening to their questions and concerns.

“This is the opportunity of a generation and we want to give as many people as possible across Scotland the opportunity to ask questions and air their views.

“We want to hear what local people have to say about the type of Scotland they want in the future and I would encourage readers of <i>The Shetland Times</i> to come along to Lerwick Town Hall.”

Mr MacAskill will host the public discussion on Tuesday 15th July at 7pm, with doors opening at 6.30pm.

Following a formal question and answer session he will be available to chat to audience members afterwards.

Anyone interested should register at www.scotreferendum.com/events, or call 0300 244 2114.