The Scottish government has drawn up a detailed plan for transition to independence, according to BBC Scotland.
The plans, based on a "yes" vote in the 2014 referendum, independence day would be some time in Scotland in 2016. Elections to the independent parliament would follow in May.
The paper calls for UK ministers to open talks on transition now, but the prime minister has said he will not pre-negotiate independence.
The officers are expected to travel to Libya in March. It will be the first time police have been allowed to visit as part of the probe.
– David CameronI am delighted that the Dumfries and Galloway Police team will be able to visit your country to look into the issues around the Lockerbie bombing.
David Cameron confirmed that officers from the Dumfries and Galloway force have been given permission to visit Libya as part of the Lockerbie investigation.
The Libyan leader confirms they will be giving visas to the police officers investigating Lockerbie.
As the countdown to the independence referendum in 2014 continues, First Minister Alex Salmond and the Prime Minister David Cameron both sent special messages, in celebration of St. Andrew's Day.
Mr Salmond visited a primary school to focus on free education.
– First Minister Alex Salmond"St Andrew's Day is a very special day in Scotland. A day when we celebrate Scotland's history, our people, our culture, but above all a celebration of our people."
"Scotland is proud of its history of invention and discovery. We actually invented quite a bit of the modern world, from the telephone, to television, to penicillin, to beta blockers.
"However, perhaps - actually certainly - our greatest invention of all, the one that made all of the others possible, was the invention of universal free education."
– Prime Minister David Cameron"For centuries, Scotland's greatest asset and greatest export has been its people."
"Scots have helped bring peace and security to nations, made some of the world's greatest inventions and been at the forefront of international trade in every continent.
"Scottish companies and Scottish people are a critical part of the UK's efforts to compete in the global race.
"A small country with a big heart and a big voice.
"Scots and Scotland have done so much to shape our modern world. So, this is a day for everyone to celebrate our shared history and look forward to our future prosperity together.
Alex Salmond has said in an interview that no deal has been done as far as the referendum question is concerned.He added that it has been unwise for to suggest there was and that although progress has been made there are still a number of issues that need to be ironed out.
But he hopes that next week the deal can be finalised.He is expected to meet with the Prime Minister David Cameron on Monday (15th October).
Scotland's First Minister Alex Salmond will meet David Cameron to finalise the terms of an historic referendum on Scottish independence.
Read the full storyScotland's First Minister is expected to meet with the Prime Minister in the next few weeks to conclude the discussions about the terms of a vote.
He said independence would give Scotland the powers needed to promote jobs and growth.
He told MSPs, "I believe an independent Scotland is a fairer as well as weathier one."
A controversial bill on same - sex marriage will also be brought forward. It will be subject to a free 'conscience' vote in the parliament.
– Alex Salmond, First Minister"No faith group will be required to take part in a same- sex ceremony unless they wish to do so. This is the apppropriate thing to do to respect religious and private beliefs, while ensuring equality."
