SO that's that then.

Two years of campaigning, a massive turn-out at the polls, and Scotland rejects independence. The status quo is retained.

Except, of course, the status quo is precisely what we are not left with after a remarkable referendum.

The union is saved, but the union will never be the same again.

The three main Westminster party leaders promised the Scots pretty much everything bar independence to secure a No vote on Thursday.

But their much-vaunted vow means there will also be new powers for Wales and Northern Ireland, and there will almost certainly be some form of devolution for England.

The prime minister has pledged to solve the age-old so-called West Lothian Question within months by banning non-English MPs from debating or voting on policies that will affect England only.

And further devolution for Scotland (and we assume Wales and Northern Ireland) will be rushed through before next May's general election.

The independence referendum has had a major impact on the future of the UK, even though the majority of Scots voted to remain within the union.

One huge positive from Thursday's vote was the 85 per cent turnout. It showed that people are interested in politics and in the democratic process - but only if they think their vote will make a real difference.

Politicians should ponder on that.

If at next year's election voters feel it doesn't matter how they vote because 'all politicians are the same' then it will be reflected in turnout.