The social responsibility contract that many leftwing unionists would like to conclude with the Scottish nationalists is as yet unwritten. Several of the details and clauses are still taking shape in our heads but, 16 months away from the independence referendum, a broad outline is being formed. It looks something like this: in return for you pledging to deliver a truly enlightened, compassionate and inclusive democracy, we will set aside our misgivings about the economy in an independent Scotland and conceal our anxiety over our pensions and savings. We will take deep breaths and cross the Rubicon with you, or at least the Firth of Forth.

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