SNP has all the powers already

Sir, – During the BBC Question Time in Perth the question of Indyref2 came up, with various responses relating to the recent publication of the report from the Growth Commission.

This publication is, as can be seen from a cursory glance, a fairytale, of what might have been if only things had been different, and Scotland did not start from here, but from 10 years since.

Had one been capable and possessed the inclination to raise an arm for an hour, there might have been an opportunity to speak on a subject, but sadly not.

What had to be said was that the current Scottish Government has all the powers it needs to run a successful devolved parliament and indeed country.

They already have power over health, welfare and benefits, education, justice, transport – not to mention finance and tax – all mentioned in the aforementioned document as being required.

The nationalists say they need independence to gain such powers. This is patently wrong as they have them.

The reason for Scotland’s dire performance overall in government is primarily incompetence.

They do not have the people to do the jobs required and any who show talent are bound by the party line.

Where have all the free thinking, talented politicians with high ambitions for the lives of Scots gone?

Perhaps they are imprisoned and frightened by party doctrine.

My view, had it been requested, would be that queen Nic should bring it on, and allow the inglorious ex-first minister to bury the nationalist party for at least a generation – and in so doing give all Scots a break.

Alan Bell.

Roods, Kirriemuir.