Letters / A parcel of rogues
The Burns poem “A Parcel of Rogues in a Nation” refers to the alleged “sell-out” of Scotland in the Union of the Parliaments and is a great favourite with the SNP. Alex Salmond, famously, recites it and other Burns classics with relish.
So let’s have a wee bit of it…
“The English steel we could disdain,
Secure in valour’s station;
But English gold has been our bane-
Such a parcel of rogues in a nation!”
How ironic it is then that the SNP government has chosen to set aside the democratic process and impose its will by remote force, in return for money to be paid, willing or not, whether in fuel poverty or not, by English consumers through their energy bills.
Scottish consumers, numbering about a tenth of English ones, could not possibly foot the bill for Salmond’s renewable energy ambitions.
Perhaps when Mr Salmond comes to Shetland to campaign for Scottish independence, Radio Shetland will induce him to show off his recitation skills – here’s a little more to whet your appetites…
“We’re bought and sold for English gold,
Such a parcel of rogues in a nation.”
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 600 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.