roachieuk
Elite Member
Alex Salmond is stepping down as Scotland's First Minister and SNP leader after his country voted against independence.
Fifty-five percent chose to stay part of the UK while 45% were in favour of going it alone.
Mr Salmond announced his resignation as David Cameron promised new powers for Scotland.
He said now was the "opportunity to hold Westminster's feet to the fire".
The first minister said he had spoken to the Prime Minister who had "reiterated his intention to proceed as he outlined".
"But he would not commit to a second reading vote by 27 March of a new Scotland bill."
He said it was the "privilege of my life to serve as first minister".
He added: "We lost the referendum vote but Scotland can still carry the political initiative.
"Scotland can still emerge as the real winner. My time is nearly over."
Mr Salmond said: "There are 1.6 million people who made a choice for independence.
"I think the 1.6 million people will speak and speak loud if there is a retreat from those commitments."
Alex Salmond Quits After Scotland Votes No
Fifty-five percent chose to stay part of the UK while 45% were in favour of going it alone.
Mr Salmond announced his resignation as David Cameron promised new powers for Scotland.
He said now was the "opportunity to hold Westminster's feet to the fire".
The first minister said he had spoken to the Prime Minister who had "reiterated his intention to proceed as he outlined".
"But he would not commit to a second reading vote by 27 March of a new Scotland bill."
He said it was the "privilege of my life to serve as first minister".
He added: "We lost the referendum vote but Scotland can still carry the political initiative.
"Scotland can still emerge as the real winner. My time is nearly over."
Mr Salmond said: "There are 1.6 million people who made a choice for independence.
"I think the 1.6 million people will speak and speak loud if there is a retreat from those commitments."
Alex Salmond Quits After Scotland Votes No