Orbit Communications have commissioned a poll to determine what the Scottish public see as the most important event for Scotland in 2014. For the 1,272 adults surveyed it was the Scottish referendum that came out on top, ahead of the Commonwealth Games and the Ryder Cup, both of which are being held in Scotland in the next 12 months.
The poll, commissioned by Orbit and carried out by Progressive Scottish Opinion, found that 69% of Scottish adults believe the referendum is the most important event in Scotland in 2014, when asked to choose from a list of highlights from the 2014 calendar. This was well ahead of other high-profile events such as the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow (20%), the Ryder Cup at Gleneagles (2%).
The full results were:
- Scottish Independence Referendum – 69%
- Glasgow Commonwealth Games – 20%
- Anniversary of start of First World War – 3%
- Ryder Cup at Gleneagles – 2%
- None of these – 2%
- Anniversary of Battle of Bannockburn – 1%
- Unsure/ have no opinion – 3%
Graeme Downie, Director of Orbit Communications said: “With 69% of voters seeing the independence referendum as the most important event for Scotland in 2014, it is clear the Scottish electorate are well aware of the importance of the decision they have to make. “
“Commentators often say that voters are more interested in sports than politics but with such a large majority seeing the referendum as the most important event of 2014, ahead of major sporting events and historical commemorations, perhaps this is mistaken. Regardless of the result, any organisation with an interest in Scotland needs to consider the potential implications for them. We are already working with our clients to help them understand what those might be.”
Regional results are available on request, and for more information, please contact Graeme Downie.
About the poll
All figures, unless otherwise stated, are from Progressive Scottish Opinion. Total sample size was 1,272 adults. Fieldwork was undertaken between 13th – 15th January 2014. The survey was carried out online. The figures have been weighted and are representative of all Scottish adults (aged 18+).