Scottish independence: The road to referendum A Section 30 order drawn up to transfer the right to hold a referendum from Westminster to Scottish Parliament at Holyrood Findings of the Scottish Government's "Your Scotland, Your Referendum" consultation published Autumn/winter 2012 Electoral Commission watchdog begins preparations, including testing the fairness and clarity of the question February 2013 Section 30 Order agreed by the Privy Council Spring 2013 Referendum Bill goes before Holyrood Parliament October 2013 MSPs take part in the crucial Stage 3 vote at the Scottish Parliament November 2013 Royal Assent given to the Bill The Scottish Government issues White Paper on its "prospectus for independence." Other parties put forward their vision for the future of Scotland Summer 2014 The pro and anti-independence campaigns intensify Autumn 2014 The referendum takes place