Scottish independence debate hits US: Congress backs No campaign with pro-union resolution
The Scottish independence debate has burst on to the US political scene again.
Twenty-seven members of the US Congress, including both Democrats and Republicans, have signed a resolution in support of the union, saying that "a United Kingdom, including Scotland, would be the strongest possible American ally".
The focus of the resolution, which was tabled on Monday, is that a strong and united Britain is better for transatlantic strategy.
The US attitude to possible Scottish independence is one of concern that the 18 September referendum could lead to the weakening of the 'special relationship', and the wording in the resolution left this in little doubt:
Now, therefore, be it resolved that the House of Representatives believes that a united, secure, and prosperous United Kingdom is important for U.S. national security priorities in Europe and around the world.
The resolution was presented by Brad Sherman (Democrat, California) and mirrors President Barack Obama's preference for the status quo.
In June, Obama spoke at a press conference with Prime Minister David Cameron in which he reiterated the US's interest in "one of the closest allies we will ever have [remaining] a strong, robust, united and effective partner".