Independence poll left Scotland ‘better nation’

The First Minister, who has already announced his intention to resign after Scotland last week voted to remain in the United Kingdom, said the lengthy campaign had left the country with one of the most politically engaged populations anywhere in the world.

But he warned Westminster leaders that the people of Scotland would not tolerate any delay in them delivering on their pledge of more powers for Holyrood.

Days before the historic vote, David Cameron, Ed Miliband and Nick Clegg all made a public vow that key powers, including those over tax and welfare, would be transferred to Edinburgh. They also promised that the Barnett formula, which determines how public funding is divided across the UK, would be kept.

Mr Salmond said Scotland now has “a responsibility to hold Westminster’s feet to the fire to ensure the pledges are met”. He said: “That’s not just a job for the Scottish Government, it is one for all parties in the Parliament.”