Scottish Independence: Simon Cowell Urges Voters Not to Cut Ties

Simon Cowell has urged Scottish fans to vote against the Independence referendum.

While auditioning X Factor wannabes in Edinburgh, the music mogul said it would be saddening if the country chose to leave the union.

"My mother's maiden name was Dalglish," he said. "I would feel quite sad if Scotland left the Union, though I would respect the decision.

"I would never tell anyone what to do and I think the referendum is all about having self-expression.

He added: "The last thing I think you probably want is a Brit telling a Scot what to do. I would say coming up here, and the reason we come up here, is that we are like brothers. I feel connected."

Although he may not support a Yes vote, the 54-year-old star reassured fans that the X Factor would still hold auditions in Scotland even if the nation cut ties.

"We'd still come up for the show though, we wouldn't drop you!"

Cowell is the latest celebrity to join the ongoing independence debate ahead of the vote this autumn. On 18 September, Scottish people will answer the straight question: "Should Scotland be an independent country?"

Rock legend David Bowie, Harry Potter author JK Rowling and Comedian Eddie Izzard have publicly backed the Better Together campaign.