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Several media have referred to LibDems' approach on Scottish self-determination referendum as "U-turn", as "there has been growing speculation that several senior politicians have been calling for a rethink", BBC reports.

According to The Scotsman, "party strategists are now in serious talks about supporting an independence referendum in 2010 as they believe this could be the best chance of winning the argument and maintaining the union". They warned that the SNP (Scottish National Party) could "increase their majority in Holyrood after the next Scottish Parliament election and such an increase could give crucial momentum for an independence vote", particularly if Conservatives win next elections in Westminster.

Lib Dem leader Tavish Scott has dismissed speculation on dumping opposition to Salmond's plan. He has regarded statements by his party colleagues as "chatter" saying: "I don't believe at this time that we should concentrate on referenda, on independence, all those kind of arguments when 75,000 more people lost their jobs in Scotland this year".

A memo from the Lib Dem leaked to the BBC warns MSPs "about speaking to the media on the issue of a referendum on Scottish independence". Mike Rumbles, who is held responsible for the memo, invited MSPs to speak to him or to the party press office first.

Alex Salmond is determined to propose a motion in the Scottish parliament to hold the referendum by 2010, but he needs the support of a majority. He is currently backed by 47 SNP and 2 Green MSPs and therefore still requires 16 votes, which is the same number of seats held by the Scottish Lib Dems in Holyrood.

These kinds of turns are common in Scottish politics. Tavish Scott himself considered supporting the referendum on independence when he was elected Lib Dem leader, but played down his stance soon after. Scottish Labour also planned a strategy shift several months ago.

Photo: Scottish LibDem leader Tavish Scott.

Further information:

• The Scotsman: Lib Dems ready to back vote on split from UK
• BBC: Lib Dems warned over ballot talk

Scotland/Alba

General information
Population: 5.116.900 inhabitants (2005)
Area: 78.772 km²
Institutions: Government of Scotland
State administration: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland
Major cities: Edinburgh, Glasgow
Territorial language: Scottish Gaelic, Scots
Official language: English, Scottish Gaelic and Scots
National Day: 30 November
Major religion: Christianity (Protestantism)

See the dossier Peoples and nations today: Scotland for further information.