Polling results from Scotland's historic independence referendum has revealed that a large percentage of the country's population still favor a union with the British Kingdom over political autonomy.
Reports indicate that about 55% of the estimated 3.6 million voters who polled, casted their ballots against the widely debated secession, while 45% voted in support of it.
While there has been much jubilation in the country after the results were released earlier today, the close margin of the polls is evidence of the growing nationalism among the Scottish people.
First Minister Alex Salmond, who was one of the loudest voices for the 'Yes' vote, told his supporters not to be let down by the defeat. Rather, he said, "Let us dell on the distance we have travelled and have confidence that the movement will take this nation forward as one nation."
Local sources say his inability to score victory in the polls has put a question mark on Mr. Salmond's position as the people's number one choice.
Meanwhile, British politicians have celebrated the announcement, which guarantees that the three century-plus relationship between both nations will continue to exist.
Prime Minister David Cameron has disclosed that he is 'delighted' with the result. "There can be no disputes, no re-runs, we have heard the settled will of the Scottish people," he said, adding that it is time for the union to forge ahead.
The British PM has announced some legislative reforms that will devolve more powers to Scottish authorities over their local affairs. He also pledged to enact the same reforms in London.
Meanwhile, reports indicate that the Queen, who has allegedly been following the polls, will make a statement on the results later today. Earlier she gave a hint of her inclination on the highly divisive independence referendum when she cautioned the Scottish people to 'think carefully' about their votes.
