Sean Connery Wants Scottish Independence

Former James Bond star Sean Connery has come out with a resounding “ay” in favor of Scottish independence.

Though Connery no longer lives in Scotland, he says that Scottish independence from the United Kingdom could spur artistic and creative growth in his home country, as well as boost the film industry there.

“There is no more creative an act than creating a new nation,” Connery wrote in an opinion piece published in British magazine the New Statesman on Tuesday, six months ahead of a Scottish referendum on independence. “A Yes vote in September will capture the attention of the world.”

The former agent 007 and longtime supporter of independence expressed appreciation for his homeland’s burgeoning interest in its roots and the Gaelic language, and said Scotland should strive to to strengthen its cultural identity by voting for independence.

“As a Scot and as someone with a lifelong love for both Scotland and the arts, I believe the opportunity of independence is too good to miss,” said Connery.

But the Scottish public may need more persuasion before it decides to split from the United Kingdom. A recent Ipsos MORI poll found that 55 percent plan to vote ‘no’ in September’s referendum.