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Sir Sean Connery's tax exile status keeps him away from independence debate, says brother

James Bond actor not expected to appear in Scotland to rally Yes supporters

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Sir Sean Connery lives in the Bahamas
Sir Sean Connery lives in the Bahamas Credit: Photo: REX FEATURES

Sir Sean Connery, the SNP’s most famous supporter, is not planning to make a last-minute appearance for the Yes campaign because of his tax exile status, according to his brother.

There has been speculation that the 84-year-old actor, who lives in the Bahamas, could make a morale-boosting intervention for the Yes camp at the 11th hour.

But his younger brother Neil, 76, speaking in Edinburgh, said: “There's only a certain amount of days Sean can be in the country for tax reasons, so I know that he intends to use them wisely."

The retired actor also dismissed suggestions that Sir Sean, who starred in seven James Bond films, was not appearing in person due to ill health.

He added: “Last I heard from him he was in New York. He's probably in better health than me. I really don't believe he will be making an appearance this week in Scotland."

Asked about his brother’s health, which some Yes supporters have claimed was reason for his non-appearance, he added: “No he's just fine. He's got a lot on his plate at the moment."

Sir Sean was invited to appear at the opening ceremony of the Commonwealth Games in Glasgow in July, and was said at the time to have pulled out because of illness because of an eye operation.

But he appeared to have made a full recovery late last month when he was photographed shopping and dining in New York with his wife of almost 40 years, Micheline Roquebrune.

The Yes campaign refused to comment on Mr Connery’s comments, while on Twitter yesterday independence supporters continued to ask when Sir Sean would be appearing.

One tweeted: "My one disappointment of the Yes campaign - where's Sir Sean Connery? Your people need to take direction from the greatest living Scot."

Meanwhile, a No supporter suggested a newly independent Scotland should “chase Sean Connery for millions in back-taxes”.

Last week, Alan Cumming, another Scottish film star, flew in from the US to support the Yes campaign.

The No campaign’s most prominent cheerleaders include JK Rowling, Sir Alex Ferguson, Sir Paul McCartney, David Bowie and Sir Mick Jagger.