I ASSUME Derek Thomson, the Unite Scottish Secretary, had his tongue firmly in cheek when he declared the UK Government decision to support Ineos with £600 million for its Belgian plant rather than its Grangemouth plant “baffling” (The National, Mar 14).
READ MORE: 'Baffling': UK Government snubs Grangemouth but pledges £600m to Belgian project
It is not baffling at all, but a clear continuation of the UK Government policy of starving Scotland of investment lest it becomes remotely self-sufficient. Think carbon-capture scheme, think Valneva Covid vaccine, think direct ferry link to Europe – all refused the investment necessary to establish, despite all having huge potential to benefit Scotland (and the UK). There are countless other examples which readers will recall.
The underlying policy is obvious – suppression of Scotland as a potentially independent nation. Perhaps it is time to ask the Supreme Court to reconsider their conclusion that Scots are not an oppressed people? Although it would be a consideration better made by a neutral court such as the International Court of Justice.
Tim Warner
Peebles
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