Accept votes and move on, Nicola
THE ink wasn’t even dry on the Brexit deal when First Minister Nicola Sturgeon tore into it, describing it as unacceptable for Scotland. May I remind her that it was a UK referendum that voted for Brexit, but it was a Scottish referendum that rejected Scotland separating from the UK. She needs to accept defeat when she is faced with the democratic decision of the people. It has taken a long time to negotiate, but the Brexit deal is an honourable one and finally gives the people of this country what they voted for while keeping good relationships with the rest of Europe. There are howls of protest from those who voted against Brexit, but the deal is done and dusted. They have to accept this democratic decision and move on.
DENNIS FORBES GRATTAN, Aberdeen. I AM bemused by the conflicting views emanating from Nicola Sturgeon. She reiterates that Scotland voted to remain in the EU, while criticising Boris Johnson for the fishing deal he has negotiated with Europe. The deal, though not ideal, is better than our previous arrangement as a member of the EU. The First Minister has made no secret of the fact that she wants Scotland to be an independent nation. At the same time, she declares her wish for Scotland to be part of the EU. Would this make us truly independent? As Scotland is in deficit to the UK, as an independent nation it would have to raise taxes, reduce spending or both.
PETER J. SCOTT, Eyemouth, Berwickshire. WHEN the separatists complain the EU trade deal goes against their will, they make a fundamental error. They talk as if Scotland and Wales were independent countries, but they are an intrinsic part of the UK. They must accept the democratic mandate of the referendum and that the Government and its EU trade deal is for the whole of the UK. They are not separate from the UK and its economic interests, and the Government must ensure they share in its prosperity.
NEVILLE. T. RHOADES, Milton Keynes, Bucks.