Holyrood Powers 'Challenges' Outlined

The Scottish Liberal Democrats warn there are 'big challenges' faced by unionists and nationalists in getting Holyrood more powers.

At an event for activists in Perth, Willie Rennie will say unionists and nationalists must come together and create a package of powers that entrenches Scotland in the UK.

The party, the SNP, and Scottish Conservatives have named their two-person teams for the further devolution talks.

Devolution Negotiators:

SNP: John Swinney MSP, Finance Secretary 
SNP: Linda Fabiani MSP, Convener, Scotland Bill Committee
Conservatives: Professor Adam Tomkins, Lawyer
Conservatives: Annabel Goldie MSP, Former Scottish Conservatives Leader
Lib Dems: Michael Moore MP, Former Secretary of State for Scotland
Lib Dems: Tavish Scott MSP, Former Scottish Lib Dem Leader

Mr Rennie is expected to say:
"There are big challenges for unionists and nationalists as we seek an agreement on more powers for the Scottish Parliament. We know that, as a result of the referendum, Britain and Scotland will never be the same again. But the change we must secure needs to stand the test of time.
 
"For nationalists, they will need to convince voters that they will not use the Smith process to secure independence by the back-door only days after it was rejected by the voters.  
 
"An attempt from nationalists to redefine home rule and federalism in an ultra-extreme form is perhaps understandable but it is not something that will create a sustainable settlement that will stand the test of time.
 
"For unionists, especially Labour, the test will be whether they can adopt a more substantial package of powers that will give the parliament the financial responsibility and flexibility it needs to tackle inequality, create jobs and invest for the long term. Without the power to raise the majority of the money we spend, undertake prudent borrowing and control wealth taxes the change will not be substantial enough to be sustainable.
 
"Nationalists and unionists will need to come together and create a big package of powers that entrenches Scotland in the United Kingdom. That is the will of the people expressed through the referendum."