This campaign has been a marathon, but pausing to reflect, even for a moment, sheds some interesting light on both campaigns.
Our campaign to keep Scotland as part of the United Kingdom has been cross party and outward looking. People from across the political spectrum and those with no political affiliation have come together to play their part in the campaign.
It has been incredible and an honour as director of this campaign to see not just the sheer volume of people who believe Scotland is better staying in the UK, but the vast array of reasons as to why, from solidarity with our friends and neighbours across the family of nations, to the best future for Scottish business, from the UK’s record in international development, and Scotland’s historic role in leading the UK, people from all across Scotland have united behind this one common cause.
"People from across the political spectrum and those with no political affiliation have come together to play their part in the campaign"
By contrast, the Yes campaign has at times felt insular and introspective. Our obsession has been reaching undecided voters while the other side have packed themselves into church halls for public meetings filled with 'yes' voters talking to themselves.
Recently, the nationalists have come over as increasingly frustrated as they watch the clock run down on their campaign with no sign of a poll lead. We have seen angry demonstrations outside the BBC, online abuse and, recently, attempts to intimidate 'no' campaigners off the street. The nationalists are getting desperate because they have no answers, and they are running out of time.
A campaign based on flag waving was never going to work for either side, not every nationalist is a patriot or not every patriot is a nationalist. It was always going to be about the economy, about jobs and public services.
On every one of these issues it is clear that the brightest future for Scotland is to remain a part of the UK. By voting to stay in the UK we will keep the pound, safeguard pensions and protect public services. By voting to stay in the UK we can protect and enhance what remains the settled will of the Scottish people – devolution.
"Devolution reflects where the majority of Scots are in this debate – proud of our distinct identity, but also aware that we can thrive by being part of something bigger"
Devolution reflects where the majority of Scots are in this debate – proud of our distinct identity, but also aware that we can thrive by being part of something bigger. What this campaign has shown is that the nationalists simply don’t have an offer that matches that. The most overused refrain in Scottish politics, “if only we had the powers of independence”, has been shown up for what it is – a smokescreen to cover up for a lack of substance.
It is telling that the issues the 'yes' campaign have based their short campaign on are childcare, the NHS and business development – all areas that are already in control of the Scottish parliament.
On 18 September the people of Scotland will see through that lack of substance and say 'no thanks' to separation.