MPs press Scots separatists for answers

LONDON - Britain's parliament threw down the gauntlet to Scottish separatists on Wednesday, challenging them to answer a series of questions about how an independent Scotland would work before they ask Scots to vote on whether or not they want independence.

The Scottish National Party (SNP), which runs Scotland's devolved government, wants to hold a referendum on independence in 2014. The British government, a coalition of Conservatives and Liberal Democrats, opposes a break-up of the United Kingdom.

The executive in London has agreed to a referendum but says it should take place earlier than 2014, leaving the SNP less time to build momentum for the vote.