The Scottish National Party’s economic prospectus for independence: out with the old?

Nicola Sturgeon has promised to restart work on the prospectus for independence. The economic arguments will once again be central. The fact that the macroeconomic, constitutional and political context has changed markedly since 2014 offers the SNP an opportunity to reset its pitch to the people of Scotland. But, it faces huge challenges in doing so, particularly within the timescale the First Minister has set for a second referendum. Some of these challenges reflect a weaker economic outlook than seven years ago. But, holding together a more diverse Yes campaign on key issues such as currency is arguably an even greater challenge. In refreshing its vision of independence, the SNP can take a more far-sighted approach than is possible in most elections. If it can complement this with a credible—albeit tough—transition plan, it not only stands a better chance of winning, but will force unionists to re-think their own strategy