A Partnership Population Patterns Series brief

ILC-UK, supported by the specialist insurance company, Partnership Assurance Group plc, has begun to undertake a series of events to explore the relationship between our changing demography and public policy.

The third event in the series explored the demographic implications of Scottish independence.

This brief, which was developed out of the discussion held at the Population Patterns event, looks at the demographic change in Scotland and how it can be managed by government; independent or otherwise. It examines the difference between the demographics of England and Scotland, showing them to be closely aligned, and highlights the four key factors which an independent Scotland will need to focus on if is going to cope with the challenges and demands of its ageing population – fertility, migration, ageing and healthy life expectancy.

The brief goes on to highlight key points to consider around this important topic, including:

• Demographic problems are not unique to Scotland, it is a challenge to all developed countries in developing policy.
• Scottish politicians, irrespective of a referendum, cannot ignore the impact an ageing population with have on public finances and demographic make-up.
• Migration could be key to solving the problem of an ageing population and this will have to be taken into account in the development of immigration policy.
• Scottish politicians will have to tackle the health inequalities, and therefore longevity inequalities, that exist across Scotland.