Written question asked by Julian Lewis (Conservative) on Tuesday, 13 July 1999, in the House of Commons. It was due for an answer on Tuesday, 27 July 1999. It was answered by Calum Macdonald (Labour) on Tuesday, 27 July 1999 on behalf of the Scottish Office.

Scottish Office

Question: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland, What is his policy on utilising his powers to call a referendum on Scottish independence. (Failed OPQ).

Answer: Mr. Evans: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what discussions he has had concerning his reserved powers to hold a referendum on Scottish independence. [91617] Dr. Julian Lewis: To ask the Secretary of State for Scotland what is his policy on utilising his powers to call a referendum on Scottish independence. [91619] Mr. Macdonald: The Government have no intention of holding any referendum on Scottish independence. Scottish voters demonstrated their clear support for devolution on 11 September 1997, and again on 6 May this year.

Secondary information