Survey reveals Scots attitudes towards remembrance are as strong as ever
A survey has found the overwhelming majority of Scots support efforts to remember the war dead.
It comes as the country prepares to pause and remember Armistice Day at 11am this morning which will be marked by a two minute silence around the country.
Poppyscotland, which carried out the survey, revealed 71% of those surveyed said they would be wearing a poppy this year to mark remembrance.
The tradition of remembrance is also largely viewed as bringing together people of all faiths and ethnicities, with 73% of people agreeing with this statement.
The survey of 1,056 people in Scotland was carried out this summer after the general election by market research company Survation on behalf of independent, think tank British Future.
We firmly believe in an individual’s right to choose whether or not to wear a poppy - Ian McGregor
It contained two questions on attitudes to Remembrance in Scotland. Those surveyed included men and women aged 18 plus, from a range of ethnic origins.
Poppyscotland, the charity that runs the Scottish Poppy Appeal, welcomed the findings.
The charity’s chief executive Ian McGregor said: “This research underlines the important place the Remembrance period and the Scottish Poppy Appeal continues to play in Scottish life. We would never criticise anyone for not wearing a poppy.
"We firmly believe in an individual’s right to choose whether or not to wear a poppy or to observe Remembrance.
“That is their freedom of choice. However, the research findings back up what we believe and what we see during the Scottish Poppy Appeal.
“We make nearly five million poppies every year to meet demand and it is clear that the Scottish public cares about our Armed Forces community, past and present.”
The 2015 Scottish Poppy Appeal ends today (11 November) although Poppyscotland continues to fundraise all year round in order to provide the range of services that are needed.
Money raised will provide life-changing support to the armed forces community through tailored support and funding, employment and advice.
