The infamous "parcel o' rogues" immortalised in verse by Robert Burns were the members of the then independent Scottish Parliament who were seen to sell their nation's sovereignty for financial reward. That of course was in the early 18th century, long before any concept of true democracy or a popular mandate emanating from a free and fair election.

A deal to head off a constitutional crisis over plans for a referendum on Scottish independence was emerging last night as the Conservatives, Labour and the Liberal Democrats joined forces to oppose the break-up of the United Kingdom.

The ham-fisted antics of Cameron and Osborne will only increase support for Scottish independence

David Cameron and Ed Miliband joined forces today in pledging to fight to keep Scotland in the United Kingdom, as Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond told Westminster politicians to "butt out" of the debate.

Alex Salmond last night fired the starting gun for a "battle for Britain" as he announced plans to hold a referendum on Scottish independence in the autumn of 2014.

At first glance, the Prime Minister's efforts to seize the initiative on Scottish independence appear to be a clever piece of manoeuvring. On closer examination, however, they look worryingly like another instance of government by short-term tactics, of a desire for boldness that does not take account of the full spectrum of consequences.

Cameron faces opposition from Liberal Democrats over plan to require SNP to stage poll in 18 months

While symbols of nationalism proliferate at the site of the battle, not everyone's mind is made up, says Hamish Macdonell

Uncertainty about Scotland's future in the United Kingdom is having a damaging effect on its economy, David Cameron has warned.

David Cameron is to take the high-risk gamble of offering to hold a referendum on Scottish independence next year. He aims to call Alex Salmond's bluff by challenging him to stage a vote on Scotland's place in the UK within 18 months.

Advances in forensic science could reinvigorate the inquiry into the death of Surjit Singh Chhokar who was stabbed to death by a white gang.

A campaign aiming for devolution for Cornwall as a “historic Celtic nation” within the United Kingdom has been revived, with fresh support from Welsh politicians.

A brainless and faceless fish was one of 15 rare species discovered during a series of marine surveys this year.

A minimum price for alcohol could be imposed on shops and supermarkets under Government plans to tackle binge-drinking, it emerged last night. David Cameron is understood to have instructed officials to develop detailed proposals to ban the sale of drink at below between 40p and 50p a unit.