Scots would be offered another chance to vote for independence if they say no' at first, under proposals set out yesterday by Alex Salmond.

The Scottish National Party leader published his manifesto, with his own role as potential First Minister to the fore, pledging an independence referendum towards the end of Holyrood's next four-year term.

Mr Salmond was optimistic about a yes' vote but said others could follow. "The only circumstances where we could move to that is if the people wished to move to it in a subsequent election," he said. "The people of Scotland are in charge of this process."

The strategy brought attacks from opponents that Scotland would face a "never-endum", similar to the political stalemate in Quebec, Canada.

The SNP leader also opened the door to the ballot including questions on options other than independence, in an appeal to the LibDems to review their opposition to holding a vote.

At the Edinburgh launch, Mr Salmond said he wants to work constructively with Labour in Whitehall, while "taking my orders from the people of Scotland". He promised the replacement of council tax, along with "the biggest tax cut in a generation", and highlighted priorities for student debt, police, healthcare, nursery school and business tax.