Scottish unionists parties seem to be uneasy about the SNP's (Scottish National Party) proposal on a referendum for independence in 2010. While they are unambiguous about their anti-secessionist position, Labour and LibDems don't seem to be clear about the holding of a referendum. The latter has announced they are to hold a special session on October 30 to reach a party agreement on their strategy regarding SNP's parliamentary proposal in the forthcoming months.

For the time being, only the SNP (47 seats) and the Greens (2 seats) have expressed their support for the referendum bill. It is likely that the only independent MSP will back it, too. 50 seats are, then, fall short from the 65 seats needed to approve the motion. However, things could change if any of the three opposition parties (Labour, Conservatives and LibDems) or even some of their MSP reconsidered their vote. An eventual shift on their stance cannot be minimized, as recent polls show growing support for the cause of independence and the SNP. Analysts suggest that a Labour and LibDem refusal to pass the referendum bill in Parliament would boost SNP and pro-sovereignty vote in the next elections.

Kevin Lang, the LibDem candidate in North Edinburgh and Leith constituency is expected to play a leading role at the close door session, which will take place in Dunfermline. Lang declared in a previous party conference that he was in favour of holding the referendum. According to Scotsman.com, Lang said: "I passionately believe in the Union, in the benefits of the Union and believe we must do all we can to preserve it. I believe that cause is best served by having an open debate on the Union to defeat those who attempt to destroy it". Lang regards the referendum as a way to "settle an issue that is haunting Scottish politics". In the meantime, spokesman for First Minister Alex Salmond welcomed eventual news of a U-turn on the matter.

BBC's political editor Brian Taylor believes the current political situation is paradoxical: "Do I think the Lib Dems will back a referendum now? No, they will back Mr Scott [LibDem party leader]. Do I think there will eventually be a referendum? Yes".

Further information:

• Scotsman.com: Lib Dems reconsider opposition to independence referendum
• Nationalia:Scottish Liberal Democrat MPSs back referendum for independence

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