Campaigning – a new national sport

I should like to send my thanks, appreciation and respect to everyone who campaigned so energetically, enthusiastically and committedly thoughout the recent General Election. Without these people’s efforts, democracy in the UK would be weaker.

These are the enthusiasts; the team players; the dedicated. They are prepared to sacrifice. They give up holidays; climb shaky ladders to erect posters; staff gazebos at temperatures below zero; receive abuse on doorsteps and cancel lunch appointments with friends. For them it is the taking part that inspires. A win would be a bonus, but not an essential.

Of course, many campaigners are disappointed and glad it is over. However, after a great Christmas with family and friends, enjoyable drams at Hogmanay and Celtic Connections in January, they will be ready to go again.

There can be no thought of a Westminster five-year term. Already the PM has indicated he will review the fixed term parliament. There will be Scottish Parliament and local authority elections on May 6 2021.

The First Minister is calling for polling before then. Nicola Sturgeon is the ultimate campaigner. Her body almost burst with joy when the election of 48 SNP MPs was announced.

The strength of political campaigners is also their weakness. When elected, they seldom establish good administrations. Just look at the performance of the ten-plus years in office of the SNP. Falling standards in education; a Scottish NHS in crisis; drug levels among the highest in Europe; poverty and homelessness.

The message is clear – those who enjoy

political campaigning seldom run the best governments.

Perhaps we should introduce a new national sport – campaigning. In this way, we could all have the joy of participating and leave the running of the country to the civil servants. Finlay Craig, Cove.