Referendum campaigners allowed in schools 26/8/14
Campaigners on both sides of the independence debate are to be allowed to participate
in mock referendum hustings within Western Isles schools in the run-
Despite, the right to vote being extended to 16 and 17 year olds, many over zealous councils have issued an absolute ban on representatives from the Yes Scotland and Better Together participating in debates with pupils.
They maintain they are following official guidance rules requiring councils to act in a politically neutral and unbiased manner during the last 28 days before polling day.
However, the Comhairle has interpreted the rules correctly and will allowed opposing
sides to take part together in pre-
It has issued guidance over any visits and the topic will be discussed in balanced manner, says the Comhairle.
A council spokesman pointed out the Comhairle would not exclude pupils from learning about such an “historic event.”
The referendum topic also gives an opportunity to support the aims of the new Curriculum
for Excellence -
Every school in Scotland has received guidance over presenting independence arguments in lessons while teaching resources are available.