Well it wasn't implied in the intention. Had Salmond had a majority last parliament then the referendum would have happened last parliament. That is pretty plain. That doesn't mean that I am suggesting that he or any other Scottish politician is any less egotistical than anyone else and I've never suggested that.

In fact I think Salmond's ego is about as big as they come. He is a formidable operator but let's say his manner and general smug expressions etc do put a lot of people off. Whether he is actually any more trustworthy than anyone else is up for debate but the facts are that he was by far the most popular and trusted (ie by the populace) politician in Scotland - though I think Sturgeon has kind of taken on that mantle now. They are miles ahead of anyone else though! However like many very popular politicians he is very divisive - she less so. More popular than others but really despised by those who don't like/trust him. A bit like Thatcher at her peak in that respect.