VOTERS in Scotland head for the polls tomorrow to decide on devolution - on whether they should have their own parliament and one with tax-raising powers.

The signs are that, this time, the Scots will opt for greater autonomy, even though the privilege may yet cost each of them a few extra bawbies.

But scares are being raised by the Tories who, surely, have no credibility north of the border after their total wipe-out there on May 1.

They are saying that the Scots are falling into a dangerous trap that will pull the United Kingdom apart.

However, watchers here may think that a "Yes, Yes" vote in Scotland tomorrow ought to pay positive dividends elsewhere in the UK.

For regions like ours, the North West, have populations and economies equal to those of Scotland and have not, as yet, been seriously offered the same kind of greater control over their affairs and future as have the Scots or Welsh.

After the Tory years of emasculation and distrust of local government, it is time for Westminster to loosen the reins all over the UK and return government closer to the people.

And that would strengthen the UK, not weaken it.

Previous news story

Converted for the new archive on 14 July 2000. Some images and formatting may have been lost in the conversion.