Scottish independence vote sold on eBay - for £1.04
Police have launched an investigation after a number of people apparently tried to sell their votes in the Scottish independence referendum online, sometimes for little more than a pound.
The personal votes for the upcoming referendum on 18th September appeared on eBay offering buyers the chance to own a "unique piece of British history" because, in the words of one seller: "I for one, do not give a flying monkey about any of this."
A seller from Glasgow said: “This could be the deciding vote. Who knows? I am a hard working Scottish citizen with a house, a gorgeous wife and two beautiful kids who are my world.
“This vote will not change anything in our lives so I have decided not to vote my opinion but instead….. ONE OF YOURS! Happy Bidding!”
He is reported to have sold the vote for £1.04.
The Electoral Commission spotted the illegal sales, which were then removed from the online bidding site.
A spokeswoman for the Electoral Commission said it had made an agreement with eBay that any such "votes for sale" listings would be taken down and referred to the police.
She added that selling and buying votes was a criminal offence that could lead to a year in prison or a "substantial" fine, the BBC reports.
In a statement to STV, Police Scotland confirmed that they are investigating the sale of referendum votes on eBay. A spokeswoman said: “Police Scotland’s priority is to ensure public safety and security. We will respond appropriately to any issues which arise.
“We are investigating these incidents and therefore cannot comment on the outcome of these incidents until all inquiries are concluded. Where other incidents are reported they will be investigated and appropriate action taken."
eBay, in a statement to STV, said: “eBay does not permit the sale of certain items.”
In less than three weeks, Scotland will vote on whether to remain part of the United Kingdom.
Meanwhile, a poll released Friday showed growing support for Scottish independence, with 47 percent of respondents indicating that they would vote "Yes" to independence.
