Darling: “We belong together”

Tuesday 10 June 2014

Alistair DarlingThe Rt Hon Alistair Darling MP will set out a positive case for why Scotland’s brightest future is as part of the UK, when he delivers a public lecture at the University of St Andrews next later this month (Monday 16 June 2014).

The Better Together campaign leader, and former Chancellor, will address students, staff and members of the public as part of the University’s programme of hosted contributions to the referendum debate: continuing the University’s 600-year-old reputation as a national centre for reasoned discussion and considered argument.

Speaking ahead of his address Alistair Darling said:

“In St Andrews I will be setting out why I passionately believe that we can have the best of both worlds in Scotland – a strong Scottish Parliament, with the guarantee of more powers for Scotland, backed up by the strength, security and stability of being part of the larger UK. Only separation puts that at risk.”

The event comes after Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon took to the same stage earlier this year to challenge the pro-Union campaign to set out in detail what a No vote in the independence referendum would mean for Scotland.

Alistair Darling will set out the positive case for why he believes Scotland is stronger and better together as part of the UK at 1430 hours in the Buchanan Lecture Theatre, Union Street, St Andrews. The event is free, unticketed and open to all. Doors open at 1400 hours and seats will be allocated on a first-come first-served basis, so attendees should arrive in plenty of time if they wish to be assured of seating.

Following Alistair Darling’s address there will be an opportunity for questions.

Principal and Vice-Chancellor Professor Louise Richardson, who will host the event, said:

“September’s referendum is of critical importance to the future of Scotland. As a university, we have a responsibility to facilitate debate on matters of such lasting national consequence and to model to our students how responsible citizens engage with contentious issues. As polling day draws closer, I am pleased to welcome Alistair Darling to St Andrews to present the case for the Better Together campaign and to continue our series of public events on the issues raised by the forthcoming referendum.”

Notes to News Editors

Media are invited to attend.

Alistair Darling will be available for interview after the event. To arrange please contact David Ross at [email protected] or on 07725988440

Issued by the University of St Andrews Press Office

Contact: Emma Shea, Senior Communications Officer, on 01334 462 167 or email [email protected]


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