Clear contempt for Holyrood

Sir, – It was with astonishment and disbelief that I read Derek Farmer’s letter of June 13. One person’s “voter-catching wheezes” of free prescriptions, free education for all and baby boxes may be some other person’s movement towards a more just and equitable society. But let’s look at what the UK Government has to offer Scotland in the coming years.

After less than 15 minutes of debate last night, a host of devolved powers will now be retained by Westminster.

These powers will not be returned because they are deemed crucial for a post-Brexit internal market position. Worse, the precedent has been set, meaning Westminster can ride roughshod over any and all devolved responsibilities. Devolution, it would seem, is over.

All the Scots out there who see free prescriptions, free education, baby boxes and all the other progressive policies put in place by the SNP as “wheezes” should stop and think about what has just happened. The Scottish Parliament has been treated with contempt and the choice now is clear – we either give up and allow direct rule from Westminster (and think how well the UK is performing at the Brexit discussions before you opt for that) or we say enough is enough.

Me? I’ve had enough. The time for Scotland to become an independent country and stand strong in the world is now. The next referendum will not be the same as the last one, too much has changed. Graeme Finnie. Albert Street, Blairgowrie.