Referendum deal welcomed in Badenoch and Strathspey
Politicians in the strath have welcomed reports that a deal has been reached between the UK and Scottish governments over the independence referendum.
Although a few minor details need to be ironed out, a package of measures has been agreed by Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and the Scottish Secretary of State Michael Moore.
Prime Minister David Cameron and Alex Salmond are expected to meet this Monday in Edinburgh, where they are expected to agree on a plan which will involve a referendum which asks a single yes/no question on whether Scotland should leave the United Kingdom.
It is understood the agreement will also extend the vote to include those aged over 16.
Scottish Office Minister David Mundell said there would be a single question.
Highlands and Islands Labour MSP David Stewart said: "This is clearly going to be a very important constitutional issue in two years’ time and I am confident it will be a no vote."
He added that he would be working with other Labour MSPs and party activists plus other political parties and civic groups involved in the No campaign to make sure that everyone was aware of the issues involved and turned out to vote on what was "an absoluely crucial issue for all Scots".
Mr Stewart added: "I am convinced Scotland will stay part of the United Kingdom under a devolved system with a strong Scottish Parliament."
A spokesman for Badenoch SNP MSP Dave Thompson said: "If an agreement between the Scottish and Westminster Governments is imminent then Dave welcomes it and looks forward to campaigning for Scottish independence, and the principle that it should be the Scottish Parliament that makes all the decisions about Scotland’s future."
Attempts were made to get a comment from local Lib Dem MP Danny Alexander (Lib Dem) and local SNP MSP Fergus Ewing but were unsuccessful.
The SNP is understood to have accepted a single question referendum, as opposed to two questions including one on greater powers for the Scottish Parliament, whilst the UK government has abandoned its opposition to giving 16 and 17 year olds a vote on the matter.