SNP unveils independence bid

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He formally launched draft legislation which, if passed, would lead to a referendum.

And he claimed it was the "settled will" of the Scottish people for their parliament to grow in influence and authority.

Mr Salmond made the claim as he launched a "national conversation" on Scotland's future.

In a white paper he set out what the SNP sees as the three main "realistic" choices for Scots: the present devolved set-up, or re-designing devolution by extending the powers of the Scottish Parliament in specific areas - or full independence.

The white paper also includes the draft wording of the ballot paper for a referendum.

This asks voters whether they agree or disagree "that the Scottish government should negotiate a settlement with the Government of a United Kingdom so that Scotland becomes an independent state".

But launching the document in Edinburgh, Mr Salmond said the "national conversation" could result in other options being put on the ballot paper as well.

Saying he was "relaxed" about that possibility, Mr Salmond went on: "A multi-option referendum requires the alternatives to be as clear as independence or the no-change options already are.

"The opportunity now presents itself for those who want another option in a referendum to define that option and present the case to the government for inclusion on the ballot paper".