Setting sights on independence

Alex Salmond had his sights set firmly on independence as he launched his new programme for government for the coming year.

The SNP’s flagship Referendum Bill – to allow a vote on breaking away from the UK in the autumn of 2014 – took centre stage in the first minister’s legislative package.

Other bills will legalise same-sex marriage and provide families with the “best package” of early learning and childcare support in Britain.

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