You can see why support for Catalan independence continues to grow as a result of the bully-boy tactics of the government in Madrid. The government in its wisdom has decided to ban Catalan pro-independence flags in the stadium during this weekend’s Cup Final clash between Barcelona and Seville. As a direct result, nationalists have decided to hand out thousands of Scottish flags. "We’ve chosen this symbol because it highlights the different treatment that Catalonia receives from Spain, compared with the UK government’s treatment of Scotland," the nationalists said in a statement. The government denied that the move was politically motivated.
At the end of the day we live in a free country and Catalan supporters should be able to fly the flag they wish. This move by the government in Madrid only adds fuel to the fire of independence in Catalonia. The move was taken by the caretaker government of the Partido Popular which has always maintained a tough line on Catalan independence. But their bully-boy tactics will only cause yet more trouble. I sincerely hope that the next Spanish government - elections due to be held next month - takes a more diplomatic approach to Catalonia. Dialogue is needed between all sides to reach an accord which is acceptable to all. Perhaps the new government could offer Catalonia a referendum on independence. This is really the only way forward which will end the dispute.