A LEADING Scottish think-tank has announced it has changed its name amid the confusion with Reform UK.<\/p>\n
The independent, non-partisan organisation led by former first minister John McConnell, the change has primarily been driven by the rise of Reform UK and it takes place with immediate effect.<\/p>\n
It will now be known as Enlighten.<\/p>\n
The name was chosen to reflect “the remarkable inheritance of the Scottish Enlightenment and its focus on reason, rationality, empiricism and intellectual courage – all values that modern Scotland needs if it is to thrive”.<\/p>\n
Enlighten\u2019s director Chris Deerin said the change “eliminates confusion”\u00a0with Nigel Farage<\/a>‘s party and\u00a0“speaks to Scotland\u2019s great historical, intellectual flourishing”., and promises an exciting new future for our think tank.<\/p>\n \u201cScotland is a nation with tremendous opportunities, but equally significant challenges, Deerin said.\u00a0“Politicians play the key role in implementing new policy that will improve the country and boost the quality of life for its people. The media holds those who govern us to account. Think tanks such as Enlighten have an important job to do in examining policy and outcomes, proposing new ideas that encourage politicians to be bolder, and enabling the intellectual climate to flourish.<\/p>\n \u201cThis is the role of Enlighten, and as we renew our name we also renew our commitment to our non-partisan, independent approach.\u201d<\/p>\n Enlighten chair, and former first Minister, McConnell said:\u00a0\u201cWe have become Scotland\u2019s most influential think tank, just at the time when Holyrood<\/a> and Westminster<\/a> need fresh ideas and honest, challenging analysis to help our nation succeed, with opportunities for all to be successful.<\/p>\n “The time is right for a new name that reflects the breadth of our ambition. We aim to Enlighten our public debate, and we will.\u201d<\/p>\n