Scotland may achieve what UKIP desire for the rest of us. If only they could accept membership on our behalf and let us leave. I have no hesitation in letting our good neighbours north of the border remain in the EU, whilst the remainder of the UK adjusts to life outside.
Salmond and the SNP government are unable to guarantee continued membership of the European Union. Despite a rhetorical flourish, this could prove to be the most contentious bar to a positive independence vote. Bad enough that Scotland leaves the UK, but removal from the EU could prove economically harmful for the first few years of independence.
The SNP has not explored the legal implications in any depth for fear of the political consequences. They are now being found out.
What a ghastly irony plays out if the Scottish vote for union on fears of leaving the EU, only to find themselves departing a few years later if the whole of the UK votes for an exit.