Bhutan cited as model for Scotland’s independence

Amidst high profile campaigns for and against the case for Scotland's independence, a Scottish minister has cited Bhutan as an example of how a small country can remain independent, yet influence others.

Amidst high profile campaigns for and against the case for Scotland's independence, a Scottish minister has cited Bhutan as an example of how a small country can remain independent, yet influence others.

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The Scottish National Party (SNP), which is in power in the Scottish Parliament (c), launched a campaign favouring independence in May, while those opposed to the idea and favouring status quo within the UK ? Labour, Conservative and Liberal Democrats launched their ‘Better Together’ campaign in June.

The Scottish government is planning a referendum on the question of independence in the autumn of 2014, with both sides making their pitch in detail, including the benefits and drawbacks of leaving the UK.

Stewart Stevenson, a minister considered close to First Minister Alex Salmond, last week surprised many by comparing an independent Scotland to Bhutan. He made the comparison in a statement to the Scottish Parliament after meeting Bhutan’s ambassador during the recent Rio conference.