Ex-007 Connery says Scots must have a say on independence

London, Jan.25 (ANI): Movie legend Sir Sean Connery has demanded that Scots be given the right to have their say on independence.

The ex-007 urged the Unionist parties standing in the way of next year's proposed referendum to "let the people choose".

Speaking exclusively to the Scottish Sunday Express, the 78-year-old gave his full backing to our Scotland's Future debate.

"This is the most important conversation the people of Scotland have had in 300 years. I believe independence will usher in a new era of hope and prosperity for Scotland.

"The more powers a country has, the better able it is to make the most of opportunities and act quickly to deal with the problems. That's why Scotland's Parliament needs real financial teeth. In these tough economic times right across the world, independence for Scotland has never been more necessary.

"So let the debate begin. And let the people choose."

He said an independent Scotland and a national parliament with "real financial teeth" would be better equipped to deal with the global recession.

He also predicted that standing alone as a country will usher in an era of "hope and prosperity" for Scotland.

He urged MSPs and MPs in London not to stand in the way of the referendum bill which First Minister Alex Salmond has pledged to introduce next year.

However, Scottish Labour last night claimed Sir Sean and the SNP are "out of touch" with ordinary Scots. And all three Unionist parties reaffirmed their opposition to the idea of a referendum on independence. (ANI)