Ed Miliband was speaking at The Hub in Edinburgh today to say that a ‘No’ vote in Septembers independence referendum is the platform for saying ‘Yes’ to the biggest progressive change in a generation with a Labour government in 2015.

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He highlighted a range of Labour pledges that will help to tackle low pay, inequality and the cost of living crisis, including abolition of exploitative zero hours contracts, incentives for companies to pay a living wage and a restoration of the 50p tax band. These measures will benefit not just Edinburgh South or the city as a whole, but the economy of the entire United Kingdom.

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Ed also conveyed how a race to the bottom would be triggered by a ‘Yes’ vote in September. “Two countries divided with a border between England and Scotland means we are more likely to have two countries competing against each other with lower taxes, lower terms and conditions and lower wages”. The SNP have already stated their intentions to cut corporation tax by 3p, a measure that would be the first step in this race.

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He also emphasized the role that Scotland has played in the UK’s fight for equality throughout history. Mentioning names such as Adam Smith and Keir Hardie reminded the whole audience of how progressive social change in our country has been driven by Scottish figures. “Every time that there has been a call for change in our country, the voices of the people of Scotland have been heard loudest in response”.

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If you have any queries about the independence referendum, please don’t hesitate to get in touch with me at the constituency office on 0131 662 4520 orian@ianmurraymp.co.uk