Finance Secretary John Swinney has slapped down senior colleagues in the SNP and the Yes campaign who abused a business leader for questioning separation plans.
Iain McMillan, director of CBI Scotland, was subjected to criticism from the Deputy First Minister’s office after he called on independence backers to be “open and honest” about the economic consequences of separation.
A spokesman for Nicola Sturgeon immediately dismissed his plea, describing his intervention as “regurgitating the same tired old scare stories”.
Today in the Scottish Parliament, Scottish Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser invited Mr Swinney to join him in condemning the attacks, pointing out business leaders on both sides of the debate should be allowed to air their views without being subjected to “disgraceful” attacks.
Mr Swinney agreed, stating: “I have made no secret of the fact that I think that it is important that, throughout the debate, everybody who participates does so openly, with transparency and courtesy.”
Murdo Fraser MSP said:
“I welcome this sensible intervention from the ever-reasonable Mr Swinney.
“That is in stark contrast to Nicola Sturgeon’s approach, which seems to be anyone who isn’t in favour of separation deserves to be instantly dismissed and discredited, regardless of their standing or reputation.
“She sets an example which many in the Yes campaign follow.
“It is distasteful and disgraceful, and thankfully respected figures like Mr McMillan won’t be intimidated by it.
“If this behaviour doesn’t desist, it is going to be a very long and poisonous eight months.
“I would urge all sides of the debate to mirror Mr Swinney’s commendable attitude to this matter.”