Keep independence as simple as possible

Sir, – “A referendum is a means to an end, nothing more” – those wise words earlier this year from former SNP adviser Kevin Pringle should be heeded in the coming days.

Kirsty Strickland seems to be one who thinks that IndyRef2 is a desirable aim in itself (June 14).

It will only be so if voters are clear about what it is exactly meant to achieve.

One thing it will not deliver is independence on the Monday following the poll. It will simply trigger the start of a detailed bout of negotiations between the Westminster and Holyrood governments over the transition to autonomy.

Who knows how that might end? The outcome may prompt a need for IndyRef2plus.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon and her colleagues need to be careful about a crucial matter. They should not confuse means with ends, with how to get to her goal and what she might like to do after it comes about.

She cannot possibly be certain about the future of her own party after a major constitutional change of this kind. She cannot possibly

be certain about how an independent parliament would vote on matters like Trident, the level of pensions, the future of local government, transport, social care and so on.

The independence negotiations would need to concentrate on the absolute basics – these would include Scotland’s share of the national debt, the status of the armed forces and defence bases, citizenship and border control.

Keeping it as simple as possible might help avoid confusion among her own supporters and those yet to be convinced.

Bob Taylor.

Shiel Court, Glenrothes.