Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale MP David Mundell is calling on local charities and voluntary organisations to join in the independence debate.
The local MP believes that every sector of Scottish society should get involved in the debate and that in this border region the views of charity and voluntary organisations will enhance the local debate.
Mr Mundell understands that it is often difficult for such organisations to express political views but he is of the opinion that this issue is so important that everyone from individuals to business to the voluntary sector should not be afraid to join in the debate.
This follows a ruling by the Scottish charity regulator that voluntary groups can campaign for a 'yes' or 'no' vote in next year's independence referendum.
The Scottish charity watchdog says voluntary groups and charities can take an active role in the referendum, even funding events if they wish.
The Office of the Scottish Charity regulator (OSCR) said that despite the legal prohibition on charities supporting political parties, the significance and potential impact on their work of independence – or continuing within the UK - made it of obvious concern to the sector.
And following the decision local MP David Mundell is encouraging charities and voluntary groups to play their part in the independence debate.
Commenting he said: “It is vital that every sector of Scottish society have the opportunity to engage with these issues and make their voice heard in the debate. This is one of the most important decisions the people of Scotland will ever make and everyone should have their say because all he arguments need to be put on the table. And that is especially true here on the border where our ties with England are stronger and more immediate. Local people cross the border every day and most people don’t even think twice about it and there are many groups and organisations which have shared interests and cross-border partnerships that operate in this area.
Mr Mundell added: “My view own is that it would be disappointing and disruptive to local people and our way of life in this region if that was to change. These close geographic, social and economic links mean that any wider changes in policy would be felt more markedly here and that is why I am urging local people to make sure their voice is heard in what is probably the most important debate we have had but I am keen to encourage others to share their views.”