Ewan McGregor’s independence conversion shows what SNP needs to do to convince others – Angus Robertson

People who voted No in the 2014 independence referendum are changing their minds largely because of Brexit, writes Angus Robertson.
Ewan McGregor has changed his mind over the issue of Scottish independence (Picture: Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images)Ewan McGregor has changed his mind over the issue of Scottish independence (Picture: Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images)
Ewan McGregor has changed his mind over the issue of Scottish independence (Picture: Valerie Macon/AFP via Getty Images)

The Force is now with the Yes campaign for Scottish independence. International film star Ewan McGregor, who played Obi-Wan Kenobi and is set to return to the latest Star Wars project, says “probably it’s time”.

Appearing on the popular US talk show Real Time with Bill Maher at the weekend, McGregor explained why he has changed his mind and moved from No to Yes: “I was always for keeping with the union, I think it worked, it works.”

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Ewan McGregor comes out in support of Scottish Independence
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Like for many people however, things have happened to change the way they thought about things in the 2014 independence referendum: “Then after the Brexit vote I think for sure I’ve changed my tune about it. I think Scotland has been voting for a government that they haven’t been given for years. I thought that’s it, you know. The Scottish people want to stay in the European Union and the English don’t.”

With even more opinion polls indicating a growing and sustained majority for Scottish independence McGregor concluded: “So I just think, I think probably it’s time.”

These views are becoming even more prevalent amongst people who voted No in the 2014 independence referendum. For all of us who voted Yes in 2014 there’s a huge opportunity to help our friends and relatives who have previously been unconvinced but are now swithering.

By being welcoming, understanding and supportive we will make the move from No to Yes easier and increasingly likely.

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