With the polls over the weekend suggesting that the Scots may well voted for independence, the night before the Scots go to the polls, the latest Discuss event offers Manchester a chance to send a message to Scotland.
Those arguing for independence claim Scotland’s oil, its people and its natural assets have been wasted. That a better future awaits as an independent country.
They argue that the referendum in September is a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity for the people of Scotland. “With a Yes vote, we can take Scotland’s future into Scotland’s hands and make our country a better place to live, for all of us.”
Nonsense say opponents in the Better Together campaign. “Being part of the UK means more jobs, keeping the UK pound and more opportunities for young Scots. We benefit from public spending which is over £1200 higher per person than the rest of the UK. A vote to stay in the UK is therefore a vote to protect Scottish schools and hospitals.”
Either way, the relationship between the regions and nations will never be the same again. A new devolution settlement is on its way, whatever the outcome of the vote.
The debate will feature Scots, most of whom won’t get to vote as they are exiled including Hardeep Singh Kohli, the Glasgow born writer, chef, comedian and broadcaster.
Kohli is known as a multi-talented man. He wrote, directed and starred in the sitcom Meet the Magoons; took a wry look at sex, race, pets and religion in Hardeep Does, and made poker semi-respectable in £50 Says You’ll Watch This. He has also filed several reports for The One Show and reached the final of Celebrity Masterchef.
On a more serious cultural note he occasionally presents Radio 4’s Midweek and pops up on Newsnight Review and Question Time. He has also joined the panel of judges for the Man Booker Prize.
Joining him will be David McKeith, Chairman, Halle (in personal capacity) and Neil McInroy, Chief Executive, Centre for Local Economic Strategies.
Discuss has a new venue as well, the Performance Space in Manchester Central Library, recently re-opened after a £48m restoration.
Venue: Manchester Central Library,
St Peter’s Square, Manchester, M2 5PD
Time: 17th September 2014, 6pm to 8pm
Ticket available HERE
