Scotland is indeed a country. But the people, when asked did not wish it to be a sovereign country.

When using the word "country" it isn't a bad idea to recognise the two legally different interpretations of the word.

Either way, the SNP led legislative body is responsible for delivering many things SNP blame failures on Westminster for. The vote suggests that despite the low opinion some on here have of their neighbours, that many see that and dismiss SNP arguments to the contrary.

There is certainly work to be done in confidence rebuilding. A look at doctor vacancies in BMJ, covering UK and Eire shows that as of yesterday, over 24% of all consultant grade vacancies are in Scotland. By my reckoning, you would expect it to be 8%. I have very loose connections with Edinburgh medical school and they are concerned that their hitherto excellent reputation for student and house officer (foundation as they are now called) placements is compromised which leads to not being so high on the list of aspiring students. Mrs Musket was such a student and is involved over the road at The Royal College of Surgeons of Edinburgh, and they share the concern.