World Bulletin / News Desk

Scotland's outgoing First Minister Alex Salmond has said that Scotland could still declare independence from the United Kingdom despite 55% of Scots rejecting it in a referendum on September 18.

First Minister Salmond, who said he will be stepping down after leading an unsuccessful campaign to split Scotland from the UK, said in an interview with Sky News’ Murnaghan program that demographics would see support for independence rising in the coming years.

Saying that referendum was the “best route” to independence, Salmond did not rule out other ways to achieve this objective.

The Scottish Parliament could be given more powers until “you have a situation where you’re independent in all but name…then presumably, you declare yourself to be independent,” he said, adding “Many countries have proceeded through that route.”

“There are always things can change circumstances,” he said, pointing out a proposed UK referendum to leave the European Union or failure on behalf of London to keep its promises to devolve more power to Scotland.

“The majority of a country up to the age of 55 is already voting for independence,” Salmond said, noting the demographics of the 45% of Scots who voted for independence.

“I think the writing’s on the wall for Westminster,” he added, saying “I think the destination is pretty certain, we are only now debating the timescale and the method.”

Scottish First Minister Alex Salmond on Friday announced his resignation after defeat on the issue to which he had devoted his political life, but told his supporters, they now have the opportunity to hold London's "feet to the fire" on the vow that they have made to devolve further meaningful power to Scotland.

Despite cross-party calls for reconciliation after the vote, six people were arrested in Glasgow late on Friday when police had to divide hundreds of secessionists and unionists waving flags and chanting national hymns.