EEF boss opposes Scottish independence

Terry Scuoler, CEO of the EEF, a Glaswegian and former Captain in the Argyll and Sutherland Highlanders, said: "I personally understand the emotional drivers behind the idea of an independent Scotland. However, I think the longstanding economic and cultural ties with the UK represent a far stronger gravitational force in favour of the union." He said many businesses had told him privately that they were opposed to any suggestion of Scotland ejecting itself from the UK. He added: "The enemy of investment and stability in business is uncertainty. While the economic risks around independence are not fully quantified, they do represent a significant gamble." Scuoler said the debate on Scotland's future echoed issues the UK now faced in the debate over membership of the EU. "It is essential that we remain a part of the EU, influencing from within, and discussing how we improve that relationship. Equally, it is essential for the UK to remain as one as a nation, while benefitting from the richness and strength of the diverse nations within the kingdom. "I personally think both sides would be the poorer in every respect if Scottish people choose independence."