Sean Connery wants Scotland to leave the UK

LONDON, March 3 (UPI) -- Sean Connery wants Scotland to leave the United Kingdom.

Connery expressed to The Sun on Sunday newspaper that he hopes Scotland will finally separate from Britain. In the interview, he urges Scots to vote for independence when a referendum is held this September.

Connery was born in Edinburgh but currently lives in the Bahamas. He says the decision should be made by the Scottish people who live and work in the country.

The 83-year-old actor believes a vote for independence would refocus attention on Scottish culture, heritage and creative excellence. He also says Scottish independence would galvanize the film and creative industries, and create new jobs in Scotland.

He says, "I've always been hopeful about Scotland's prospects. And I now believe more than ever that Scotland is within touching distance of achieving independence and equality... I believe we have what it takes... and I am convinced it will happen in my lifetime."

The actor has supported Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond and the work of the Scottish National Party government since it came to power in May 2007.

Connery is expected to say more on the subject this Tuesday, to coincide with a lecture Salmond will give in London.

[The Daily Mail]