The matriarch of the United Kingdom, Queen Elizabeth II, has urged the people of Scotland to "think very carefully about the future" ahead of polling in this week, which could split her dominion.
Her comments have been amplified by many British politicians to underscore the imminent dangers and uncertainty that awaits an independent Scotland. Meanwhile, proponents of the secession have sought to convince the Scottish people that freedom from Britain will give the nation the power to carve its own path to prosperity.
There had been many calls for the Queen to reveal her thoughts on the divisive vote. Nonetheless, British officials insist her remarks were neutral.
Scotland has been a semi-autonomous state under the British confederation for more than three centuries. Experts say even if the referendum does lead Scotland to split from Britain, both countries would continue to have deep political, social and economic ties.
Reports indicate that Queen Elizabeth II has been offered the choice of keeping her position as the Queen of Scotland. Currently, it is unclear if she will accede to this post. The British crown's Balmoral estate in Aberdeenshire, Scotland, is allegedly one of the matriarch's favorite hideouts.
About 97% of Scotland's 5.3 million population are reported to have registered to partake in this historic vote. But experts say the result of public opinion polls on the impending vote has been too close to be definitely conclusive.
The secession of Scotland is expected to have dire economic consequences on Great Britain. Scotland would effectively control over 95% of Britain's oil and gas reserves if the 'Yes' vote triumphs on the 18th. It is unclear how both nations will share the revenue from their joint petroleum industry. Scotland is generally thought to have the most left-leaning economy in the UK, and pro-independence politicians have revealed that private investors are set to play a crucial role in the economy of the country.
