Banish the image of the grumpy Scots git urges Salmond

According to its dictionary definition, grumpy is to be surly, ill-tempered, discontented, sullenly irritable, or grouchy – all stereotypical traits of the Scottish people and something that only independence can change according to cheerful SNP Leader Alex Salmond.

The happy First Minister made his helpful comments amidst on-going debate with Prime Minister David Cameron over a proposed referendum on Scottish independence – late 2014 is what Salmond wants, sooner is Cameron’s desire.

A friendly Mr Salmond believes that, should Scotland win its independence from England, the Scots will cheer up, will stop being so grumpy and will henceforth behave like “friendly neighbours” rather than “surly lodgers.”

Although it rarely headlines as one of the main reasons why Mr Salmond is confident that Scotland has what it takes to go it alone, the £1trillion of North Sea oil revenue is a strong bargaining chip.

Mr Salmond said: “Independence is about much more than just the country’s cash balance. Above all it will mean Scotland speaking for ourselves in the world.”

Scottish Secretary Michael Moore disputes Mr Salmond’s view. He claims that two-thirds of Scottish people were against having a referendum and that England, Wales, Scotland and Northern Ireland are stronger united than apart.

“Why leave one of the most successful partnerships of nations in history?” Mr Moore asks rhetorically.

So is Alex Salmond right to say that Scots would cheer up if they are released from their English oppressors? Or is he what many have thought for years, a political windbag?