5 things to remember about the UK and Scottish independence‏

On 18 September, voters in Scotland will be asked the question: "Should Scotland be an independent country?". With less than a month to go until the independence referendum, here are 5 things to remember about the UK, Scotland and independence.

1.     Independence would mean Scotland leaving the UK permanently and starting again

The services and institutions we now share will stay part of the continuing UK, while the new Scotland will have to create much of its own infrastructure and negotiate its own terms and conditions with other countries.

2.     The UK has a diverse and successful economy

The UK has a population of around 63 million people; Scotland’s population is around 5 million. This means far more people are paying tax across the UK, which is what funds public spending and ensures we provide for one another – whether that’s through the NHS or the State pension. Scotland benefits, as public spending is 10% higher per person in Scotland than across the UK as a whole. Being part of the UK means Scotland’s economy is better protected against the ups and downs of the global economy.

3.     Being part of the UK is an important factor in that economic success

70% of Scottish exports, including 40% of all Scottish goods and services, go to the rest of the UK. Separation could see trade move less freely, affecting jobs and income.

4.     UK has major international influence

As a major player in the UN Security Council, NATO and the EU, the UK carries influence through its international alliances and world class armed forces that protect us and generate jobs. The UK spends over £34 billion on defence each year, and 12,500 regular armed forces (8.8% of the UK total) will be based in Scotland by 2020.

5.     Centuries of shared culture, media, sport and arts

The diversity of the UK enriches everything we do – from our academic research and technological innovation to our performing arts – and it means we can invest more in doing it. Scottish communities received one fifth of UK Government money spent improving broadband in rural areas. And the BBC, which receives just over £300 million in licence fees from Scotland each year, spends just under £4 billion on broadcasting in Scotland.

Four million people can vote in this referendum, but the result affects all 63 million people in the UK.

The referendum takes place on Thursday 18 September

The vote is open to Scottish voters over the age of 16

If you live in Scotland, explore the You Decide tool to see how independence could affect your home, work and family life.