GORDON MacIntyre-Kemp’s article is good but a little over optimistic in my view (Case for Scottish independence will be built on back of toxic Brexit, May 24). We’re dealing with the masters of deception and lies in the British government here so I think “Brexit becoming clear” may be something that’s never allowed to happen. We will be promised jam tomorrow for years to come. This will suit the fearties among us who look for any reason not to get into the indy mindset.
And what about the border arrangements between Scotland and England post-indy? We’ll need to have very good arguments prepared or else that will be the new sticking point that Unionists will use to thwart our arguments. It’s every bit as complex as the Irish border question in my view.
I’m just concerned that we get everything spot-on this time around, because no nation ever succeeded in gaining independence after two lost referendums.
Of course all might come good if, as may happen, Brexit is so bad that folk will think there’s nothing to lose by going on our own. However the problems above still need to be solved or argued away in some manner.
Henry Mcvey
via thenational.scot
IT looks like Scots whisky drinkers could be spoiled for choice when it comes to choosing a Scotch after Brexit, provided of course that it is made in the USA, Canada, Argentina, Japan, India or any country other than Scotland where a still can be operated. Of course not all is lost, as we will always be able to drown our sorrows in Best British Single Malt Whisky made on our doorstep in Scotland.
Theresa May’s response makes it clear that Protected Geographical Status will vanish as soon as the UK is clear of the EU.
Numerically England, with over 40 products on the list, stands to lose more than Scotland, with about a dozen, and Northern Ireland and Wales with half a dozen each.
Unfortunately the biggest loser of all is likely to be Scotch whisky, although we can have some sympathy for the makers of Irish whiskey and Plymouth gin competing in the same market.
John Jamieson
South Queensferry
LOVINA Roe (Letters, May 24) is bang on the money – KISS (Keep It Simple, Stupid). Noam Chomsky makes the point (in an interview with Andrew Marr a good many years ago, I think) that established “truths” can be spoken in a short time (eg a sound bite) because we all “know” them. But anything that challenges these “truths” is inevitably more complex and generally cannot be fitted within the soundbite beloved of our media. Thus, what is needed is a narrative that is simple, straightforward and robust enough to repel the torrent of negative abuse that will follow. What we don’t need is the longest party election manifesto in history.
Alasdair Galloway
via thenational.scot
THE best way Corbyn could have secured harmony in Ireland (and frankly the whole of the UK) would have been to campaign unambiguously to remain in the EU during the 2016 referendum. This latest trip to Ireland smacks of more poor judgment, a pathetic attempt at distraction from Labour’s current political paucity and makes me think of out-of-control horses and stable doors…
Amanda Baker
Edinburgh
THERE is an online political campaigning website called 38 Degrees, the name of which refers to the angle at which snowflakes adhere to form an avalanche. I feel its a wonderful analogy and one that perfectly fits the Scottish independence push to the next referendum.
Westminster’s blatant attempts at grabbing repatriated powers from Holyrood will be our 38 Degree moment and will sway the people of Scotland who are genuinely doubtful of independence.
Come on Yes campaigners, let’s have our tipping point!!
Terry Keegans
Beith, North Ayrshire
I LOVED the wee yellow “sporran” bag which the Catalans presented to The National (Catalans thank National reporter with unique sporran, May 23).
Wouldn’t it be great if some artisan leatherworker based in Scotland (or Nquart Leather) could make and sell something similar to independence supporters?
How about bags AND sporrans in yellow and perhaps inscribed with a line from The Little White Rose by McDiarmid?
Then we would be a very visible “army” on the streets every day.
Beth Barclay
Melrose
WILL they be making these sporrans for general sale?
I would love one to wear with the kilt on high days and holidays down here in Andalucia.
Ralph Barnett
via Facebook
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