What Scotland's Independence Would Mean for Tourism


Skift Take

The anti-Independence forces are positing a 'yes' vote as support for total disaster economic and political disaster. Some could argue that a split from England isn't always bad.

Tourism is one of the largest industries in Scotland, supporting around 200,000 jobs and contributing more than £11 billion ($17.7bn) annually to the economy, according to government statistics. The country welcomed more than 2.5 million overseas visitors last year and may see even more in 2014 as it hosts a preponderance of international events like the Commonwealth Games, Ryder Cup and MTV EMA Awards. But what will happen if Scotland votes for independence from the United Kingdom Thursday? Mum's the word at tourism board Visit Scotland, where spokeswoman Louise Purves says it would be "inappropriate to comment on the current political situation." "Scotland has inspired people to visit for the last 200 years and there is no evidence from our partners in the industry that they are being adversely affected by the current political discussion," she says. Visit Scotland's not-so-subtle advertising campaign under "the Year of Homecoming" in 2014 angered those in the Better Together camp, who believe Scotland should remain in the UK. The leade