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MSPs to discuss independence plan MSPs ask for conversation detail
(about 15 hours later)
One of the first tasks MSPs will embark upon on their return from the summer recess is scrutinising the Scottish National Party's independence plans. A cross-party Scottish Parliament committee has asked ministers to clarify the consultation on Scotland's constitutional future.
The parliament's European and external committee will ask First Minister Alex Salmond for a timetable on the matter. Holyrood's European and external committee is to hold an inquiry into the "national conversation" white paper, launched last month.
In his first 100 days in office, the SNP leader published plans for a referendum on independence. It wants clarification over a timetable and intended progress.
He called for a "national conversation" on Scotland's future, hoping to win people over to the SNP's point of view. The paper has set out the case for options, including more Holyrood powers and a ballot on independence.
Extended powers Committee convener Jackie Baillie said of the request: "Once we have received that response, the committee will be better able to scope the nature of the inquiry we want to have."
The SNP is aiming to hold a referendum on independence in 2010. The committee also heard a call from independent MSP Margo MacDonald to set out its position on the EU treaty, which she branded a constitution "by any other name".
The European and external committee will be keen to know from Mr Salmond how long is conversation his expected to last.
As things stand in the parliament, the SNP does not have the necessary votes to call a referendum.
Meanwhile, the opposition parties are aiming to turn the conversation into talks about extending the powers of the Scottish Parliament within the UK.