Scottish independence referendum next year SCOTLAND could become an independent country on March 24, 2016 if voters back leaving the UK in next year's independence referendum. The date is included in the Scottish Government's white paper, described as a "blueprint" for independence, which will be published on Tuesday. Deputy First Minister Nicola Sturgeon says it's a "landmark document" which has economic growth, jobs and fairness at its heart. Sturgeon says it will be the document that drives the independence debate, providing the positive case for a vote in favour of independence. It is a landmark document which sets out the economic, social and democratic case for independence. It demonstrates Scotland's financial strengths and details how we will become independent - the negotiations, preparations and agreements that will be required in the transition period from a vote for independence in September next year to our proposed Independence Day of 24th March 2016 and in time for the first elections to an independent Scottish Parliament in May of that year. The guide describes what a newly-independent Scotland will look like. It illustrates how the powers of independence can be used to benefit individuals, families, communities and the nation as a whole - and it answers a range of detailed questions that we have been asked. Sturgeon is urging the public to read the document and compare it with any alternative future for Scotland. The independence referendum will take place on September 18, next year. The proposed Independence Day of Thursday March 24, 2016 follows the dissolution of the current Scottish Parliament, which is set to be scheduled to take place at midnight on Wednesday March 23, 2016. March 24 is also the anniversary of both the Union of the Crowns in 1603 and of the signing of the Acts of Union in 1707.