'Rule Britannia' was written by a Scot even though the music was by Thomas Arne and shows its 18th century triad chord and moving thirds heritage (kraut zistern-schlagers took over the world!). 'God Save the Quink' was also scored by Arne, so he has a 270-year-old stranglehold on British/English national songs. He was, of course, Irish :-)

'Flower of Scotland' is usually played too fast, and in too emphatic a manner. The original Corries version is more a lament than an anthem.

Scotland wishes to be independent just to avoid Tony Blair slapping a law in place which prevents freedom of singing and music-making without licences. Indeed if this was tried on, I think it would be one thing which ensured SNP victory and Scottish secession.

David