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Polls Predict Scotland's Independence Vote Will Fail


A person walks by a message left by a member of the 'Yes' campaign written on a pavement, in Edinburgh, Scotland, Sept. 17, 2014.
A person walks by a message left by a member of the 'Yes' campaign written on a pavement, in Edinburgh, Scotland, Sept. 17, 2014.

In the final day of campaigning before Scotland's independence referendum, three public-opinion polls show "No" votes - which would keep Scotland part of Great Britain - in the lead.

Speaking to Sky News, British Prime Minister David Cameron said he is “nervous, but confident” that Scots will say “No.”

“…Everyone who cares about our United Kingdom, and I care passionately about our United Kingdom, is nervous, but I am confident that we have set out how Scotland can have the best of both worlds - a successful economy with a growing number of jobs that we have seen today, the Scottish unemployment rate at six percent is actually lower than the unemployment rate in London, and shows what a success the Scottish economy is," he said. "So, the success of that, but combined with the ability of Scots if they vote 'No' to have even more powers and even more say over how to run their own affairs in Scotland."

Countries within the United Kingdom
Countries within the United Kingdom

An Ipsos MORI poll on the eve of the referendum showed the support for independence has risen to 49 percent and the number of those against dropped to 51 percent. The support for independence has increased seven percent since a similar poll was conducted on August 5.

Turnout of Thursday’s referendum is expected to be very high, since over 95 percent of constituents have registered to vote.

The polls have also found eight to 14 percent of Scotland's 4.3 million voters are undecided before the Thursday vote.

Earlier surveys had indicated 48 percent of Scots were likely to vote "Yes" for independence, compared to a 52 percent majority rejecting the bid to break away from London's rule.

Both sides in the campaign are making a final push, even making housecalls to try to gain the support of people who have not yet decided which way to vote.

The anti-secession side argues that a "Yes" vote would damage Scotland's economy and disrupt life for everyone if the Scots' 307-year-old union with England is shattered.

Cameron said earlier he always expected a close vote. He told The Times newspaper: "Whatever the result, we are a democracy. You have to respect the expression of people through the ballot box."

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