Letters / “Scots wha hae” delirium
Many thanks for Robin Stevenson of Glasgow’s ranting diatribe (A Stuart Hill Myth; SN 12/6/15). It’s the most satisfying and enjoyable read I’ve had in a long time.
My letter on the islands’ “opt out” obviously struck a nerve at Gordon Lamb House.
Mr Stevenson misrepresents me on too many points for me to deal with here without straying from my main point, which is the potential loss of a referendum “opt out” if Shetland (and/or Orkney) votes ‘No’ within an overall Scottish ‘Yes’.
He dismisses as “fantasy” my suggestion that “Westminster will provide the opt out” in the event of a Scottish independence Yes vote (They want total control; SN 9/6/15).
I hate to rouse him from his own “Scots wha hae…” delirium, but had sufficient Scots voted for devolution in 1979, the question had already been discussed at UK Cabinet level and Faroese-style autonomy was being seriously considered as a preferable option to direct rule from London.
They were considering it then because the Liberal MP Jo Grimond had “demanded” it. Could we depend on Danus Skene to “demand” Faroese-style autonomy in 2018?
I think not.
John Tulloch
Lyndon
Arrochar
Become a supporter of Shetland News
Shetland News is asking its many readers to consider start paying for their dose of the latest local news delivered straight to their PC, tablet or mobile phone.
Journalism comes at a price and because that price is not being paid in today’s rapidly changing media world, most publishers - national and local - struggle financially despite very healthy audience figures.
Most online publishers have started charging for access to their websites, others have chosen a different route. Shetland News currently has over 630 supporters who are all making small voluntary financial contributions. All funds go towards covering our cost and improving the service further.
Your contribution will ensure Shetland News can: -
- Bring you the headlines as they happen;
- Stay editorially independent;
- Give a voice to the community;
- Grow site traffic further;
- Research and publish more in-depth news, including more Shetland Lives features.
If you appreciate what we do and feel strongly about impartial local journalism, then please become a supporter of Shetland News by either making a single payment or monthly subscription.
Support us from as little as £3 per month – it only takes a minute to sign up. Thank you.