Understanding the workings of democracy

Madam, – Saturday’s letters (The Courier, August 31) made interesting reading, particularly in the context of some respondents’ understanding of democracy in general and its application in the so-called union of equal states – also known as the UK.

Democratic acceptance of situations is supposed to be a fair reflection of a majority viewpoint, and normally, those involved will accept the result given that all parties taking part in the ballot have an equal chance of winning; unless one party has a built-in advantage of a vast numerical superiority in terms of votes over the other or others.

To put this in perspective, as with this fact in mind it would be politic to point out in reply to Victor Clements, (Letters, August 31), that Brexit is only a problem in England and Wales as majorities in both Scotland and Northern Ireland voted to stay in the EU.

To be fair, Welsh voters initially taken in by misleading propaganda have now adopted a more sympathetic stance in favour of staying in Europe as well.

On the same date Keith Howell, ardent Conservative voter, suggests that Scotland owes Ruth Davidson a debt of gratitude for standing up to the SNP campaign for independence.

In this respect he must have missed the lady being regularly put in her place at First Minister’s Questions at Holyrood.

But that said, it is proper to wish her well in her decision to stay at home and be a caring mother.

Finally, Derek Farmer derides the view of regular respondent Les McKay by reminding him that Scotland had voted to remain in the UK and was now duty bound to accept the Brexit decision to leave the EU which is debatable given the population demographic highlighted above. Allan A MacDougall. 37 Forth Park, Bridge of Allan.