Moving On: An economic case for Scottish Independence

In March 2016 the Scots may be electing their first sovereign Parliament since 1707. "Moving On" examines the social factors which shape the present UK and Scottish economies and then moves on to define how Scotland might develop a different model more appropriate to the Scottish perception of a fairer society. Key to this change is a fresh assessment of the place of 'finance' relative to what the authors define as a more 'real' economy. Economic activity should be driven by capacity and ability rather than preconditioned by affordability and the precondition of financial profit. The development of this process reveals significant research into the role of financial markets and the more familiar banking institutions which at almost predictable intervals fail the society they purport to serve. The task of reforming these deeply flawed institutions is seen as practical in the context of an independent Scotland in control of its own currency and banking laws. How these might be drafted and function in practice is presented as a progressive policy for any government prepared to face its financial demons. The co-authors, a successful businessman and a senior trade unionist combine to argue against the present neo-liberal economic dogma and its close association with shadowy financial markets. "Moving On" offers the open-minded reader an alternative blueprint - that of a society where private enterprise and full employment can contribute equally to the 'common weal'.