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A transformation has taken place in Scotland.

The saltire, historically adopted by pro-independence groups, has currently been waved for a alternative movement.

Throughout the nation, the blue and white of Saint Andrew is fluttering from lampposts and being shown beside the union flag at demonstrations against immigration.

Until recently those two symbols were typically observed on different sides of the debate about Scotland's future.

Currently the saltire's presence is sparking disagreement of its own at rallies from Aberdeen to Perth and from Falkirk to Glasgow.

Opposing National Identities

This conflict for the Scottish flag is furthermore a battle about what it signifies to be a nationalist in contemporary Scotland - a struggle among clashing national identities.

Key Figures

Steven Rennie is among the key voices in these recent protests.

He combines resistance to independence and migration with sharp criticism of the Scottish National Party.

They claimed the Scottish flag as their symbol and for many years we've permitted them to employ it as a weapon of division and animosity.

Opposing Demonstrations

The crowd - separated from many alternative rally participants by a cordoning of police - applauded the criticism of the national party.

The SNP has wreaked havoc on the country, weakening our economy and our capabilities at every turn.

Immigration Issues

Immigration is a persistent problem for the government leader and seems to be increasing up the schedule ahead of the Scottish parliamentary elections.

The small boats crisis and the housing of refugees in hotels have sparked protests around the UK.

Regional Opinions

One protester, who gave his name as Mark, held a union flag emblazoned with "Halt the Boats".

He claimed politicians should be fixing struggling public systems, not allocating citizen resources on medical and dental care for refugees.

Alternative Perspectives

Outside the hotel a gathering of alternative activists, including several labor representatives, had assembled.

Additionally they were critical of the PM – but for alternative motivations.

Economic Concerns

The two camps appear to share a feeling of dissatisfaction about Britain's struggling economy and the weak situation of public services.

The real issue in contemporary Britain is the elected officials who fail to confront these issues squarely.

Housing Crisis

One recurring complaint among protesters is about the amount of newcomers being housed at local authority expense.

The issue is most acute in Glasgow, which has the Britain's largest quantity of asylum seekers in public housing.

Representative Significance

An asylum seeker, a asylum seeker dwelling in northern Glasgow, believes the saltire usually represents peace, harmony and inclusion.

But he says it is presently being waved "by right-wing groups and racial prejudice".

Community Impact

Discussions concerning symbols are not only occurring in large Scottish municipalities and industrial communities.

In the prosperous Renfrewshire community of Bridge of Weir, the raising of Scottish flags has caused controversy on the neighborhood online forum.

Policy Ramifications

The Scottish leader the First Minister said arguments about immigration were being "encouraged by a broader discussion" going on in the United Kingdom and worldwide.

I believe in a Scottish society that is tolerant, welcoming and inclusive.

Election Prospects

Research before the Holyrood vote suggest a significant advantage for the Scottish National Party.

No matter what banners are displayed by whatever political group in the election campaign, border control looks set to claim its role alongside the financial system and government resources as a big issue.