SNP conference 2012: Leader Alex Salmond talks of a better future

SNP leader Alex Salmond has told delegates at his party's Perth conference that Scottish independence would secure a better future for "our families, communities and our nation".

A referendum on whether Scotland breaks away from the UK will take place in the autumn of 2014.

Mr Salmond said the vote was a once-in-a generation opportunity.

He added: "This referendum is not just about an independent Scotland, it is about our belief that for Scotland there can be - there must be - a better way."