Author of new independence blueprint says the last one failed to convince voters

THE author of a new blueprint for Scottish independence says too many voters were unconvinced by the last one.

Former SNP MSP Andrew Wilson unveiled his Growth Commission report into the economics of Scotland going it alone nine days ago and yesterday claimed pro-Union politicians had privately admitted it made a strong case.

The report, which backs retaining the Pound but eventually moving to a Scottish currency, has had a mixed response from pro-Yes supporters and will be discussed at a series of SNP roadshows this summer.

Pressed on the difference between his report and the 2014 White Paper, Mr Wilson said: “What was undoubtedly the case in 2014 was that people didn’t feel we were ready or the prospectus wasn’t credible enough and that’s why we didn’t win.”

The former RBS banker added: “The brief was to come up with a plan that would be in the interest of Scotland and make the case work with a view to converting people who are in the middle, if you like.”

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon yesterday hailed the report for engaging people once again with the constitutional question.

She said on Twitter: “I’ve read and heard more people this week – including 2014 No voters – talking about and seriously considering the possibilities of independence than I have in some time. That’s a real tribute to the work of Andrew Wilson and the Growth Commission.”

Meanwhile, thousands of independence supporters took to the streets of Dumfries yesterday.

An estimated 10,000 people marched through the town.

In the autumn Nicola Sturgeon is expected to give a signal as to when she might consider a second referendum.