The Scottish referendum - we should be proud of our democratic process.

Whichever way your sentiments lay in the Scottish independence referendum, the most amazing thing watching it unfold has been the level of political engagement. We are repeatedly told people aren't interested in politics any more. Really? When given a vote on something that can have real impact on their lives and futures the people of Scotland were passionate and engaged about it.

A referendum that engendered extreme emotions and potentially  inflamed passions was conducted in a  sound manner and with no recourse to violence. A democratic process has unfurled on our doorstep & we now agree to abide by its decision.

Whatever the result, one side was bound to be unhappy but now is not a time for recrimenation.  Rather it is a time for reflecting with pride on how well political engagement and democracy can work when we let it and for setting out to work together for a better UK for all. There will be much talk now of devolving power from Westminster not just to Scotland, but to Wales, N. Ireland and English regional assemblies too.

Perhaps in some small way this referendum will engage all of us in politics on these matters in the future...but for now congratulations Britain you are a truly democratic nation!