Winners of the Iraq War: The Scots

Independence party finally scored by opposing war

By Jonas Oransky, Newser Staff

Posted Sep 4, 2007 4:31 PM CDT

(Newser) – When Scotland’s separatists became the first party to wrest control of the Scottish Parliament from Labour last May, it was due to a surge of anti-Iraq-war sentiment as much as pro-independence fervor. But the Scottish National Party has proved adept at governing, the New Republic notes, making small popular steps, towards cutting UK ties.

The party's referendum on immediate separation may have no legs, but Labour colleagues are lining up with the majority behind subtler measures like Scottish control over oil revenues and broadcasting, unique health care measures and the nation's own Olympic team. And the newly empowered party is gaining in popularity; they’d pick up more seats if an election were held today.

[Images (3)]

[Videos (1)]

Scottish National Party (SNP) leader Alex Salmond pauses after casting his vote at the Polling station in Strichen, Scotland, for the Scottish Parliament Elections Thursday May 3, 2007. Latest polls... (Associated Press)

Troops from 51st Highland, 7th Battalion Royal Regiment of Scotland celebrate as they return to Forthside barracks in Stirling, Scotland following a six-month tour of duty in Iraq Thursday May 24, 2007.... (Associated Press)

Scottish National Party (SNP) leader Alex Salmond celebrates winning his Gordon constituency at the Scottish Parliament elections in Aberdeen, Scotland Thursday May 3, 2007. Prime Minister Tony Blair... (Associated Press)

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Winners of the Iraq War: The Scots