'Wales must forge own path to avoid being left independent by default'

Will Hayward hopes his new book will encourage a facts-based debate about the merits and pitfalls of Welsh independence

WALES could become independent “by default” if Scotland leaves the UK, according to the author of a new book examining the constitutional debate.

Will Hayward said he does not ­accept the argument that ­Scottish ­independence will provide a ­“blueprint” for Wales and that it had to develop its own case for leaving or staying in the Union.