Was Scotland's independence referendum rigged?

Well, was it?

Was Scotland's independence referendum rigged?  I dunno.  And I dare say never shall.

But I observe the following:

• In order to create a 10% majority in an 85% turnout, there must have been one heck of a lot of rigging, and that wouldn't have been easy to cover up.

• Conspiracy theorists always abound.  However, the "evidence" that seems to be circulating, including video, seems to merely highlight incompetence and minor cock-up rather than conspiracy.  I don't suppose there has been a flawless count in the history of elections, anywhere.

I would not deny, however, that the powers in Brussels did not wish to see a "yes" majority.  I also agree that the separatist movements in Scotland and elsewhere are bolstered by the authoritarian attitudes and money-hunting of centralist power-thirsty politicians.  Since these politicians aren't going to change their ways, the protests against them, all leading to separatist trends throughout Europe, will continue.  I also agree that things could get nasty, especially when the inevitable economic down-turn comes around again.

But let's not forget, as I said before, the SNP are socialists, and socialism doesn't work.  Whatever you think of Alex Salmond, what he said when he announced his resignation is right; now is the time to make the Westminster politicians stick to their promises made just before the 18th of September.  Maybe, just maybe Scotland can progress towards its own brand of capitalism, reduce socialism, all without secession and the inevitable medium term turbulence and bust that that would have condemned its people to endure.

I was struck by what a nineteen year old apprentice welder working in Dundee, earning not much more than the minimum wage, told his Mum before he voted: "Why would I want to swap a stuck-up politician from London with one from Edinburgh?  There must be a better way - I'm voting 'no'."

Enough said.