Independence referendum: Scots to have trio of choices

SCOTLAND is heading for a single referendum that will give the people the chance to vote for three options – an independence-lite constitutional settlement, full separation from the UK or the status quo.

Alex Salmond last night gave his strongest signal yet that he favoured a two-question ballot that would enable the people to decide between those three options, as a fuller picture began to emerge about the choices facing the country.

The First Minister provided some clarity about the form of the referendum during a week that has seen much confusion created by the constitutional wrangling between the Scottish and UK governments.