Scots say ‘nae’ to independence

Scottish nationalist leader Alex Salmond has conceded defeat in his nation’s independence referendum.

Salmond says the referendum has been a triumph for the democratic process in Scotland, where 86 per cent of eligible voters cast a ballot.

“Our referendum was an agreed and consented process. Scotland has, by majority, decided not, at this stage, to become an independent country. I accept that verdict of the people and I call on all of Scotland to follow suit in accepting the democratic verdict of the people of Scotland.”

Salmond immediately demanded the British government meet its promise of more powers for Scotland. British prime minister David Cameron has promised to live up to those commitments, including plans for new powers on tax, spending and welfare.

Cameron says the new plans will be agreed by November, with draft legislation by January. He says this requires that people in other parts of the United Kingdom to have more rights to govern their own affairs, particularly in England.