It seems like the Battle of Bannockburn is about to happen again in a couple of years. The Scottish Parliament (with the awesome name of Holyrood) backed the effort to call a referendum on Scottish independence from the UK. No specific timeline has been established but 2013 or 2014 has often been cited as potential opportunities to call for a vote.
Westminster has cited that the constitutional authority for devolution lies solely with them. They are OK with a referendum on the issue of independence, but want to do it "right" so it doesn't conflict with federal laws. This has put the two sides in conflict.
Putting aside the questions of whether Scottish independence is the right move and whether Scotland can sustain itself without funds from Westminster, what does it mean for the kingdom as a whole? What is there left of the kingdom, both physically and politically, when a large portion--half of the island--splits off?
If the Scottish independence referendum is successful and the country splits off, I truly think it spells the beginning of the end for the British monarchy. What is there to rule when parts of the kingdom starts peeling off? Will Wales want independence next? Will hardliners in Northern Ireland start attacks again, emboldened by their Scottish brethren?
The monarchy is an anachronism, albeit an entertaining one that brings in immeasurable amounts of funds to the state. I would like to see Scotland stay with the UK. What's the alternative--joining the EU? Sure, that worked out really well for Ireland.
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