First minister is shrewd and sharp

Sir, – I read with interest the letter from your correspondent Chris Robb (November 30) regarding the recent Supreme Court decision.

Like Mr Robb, I also do believe the first minister was not unduly surprised by the decision. Where we differ is in our opinion of the first minister.

The first minister is nobody’s fool and I would invite your correspondent to Google what others throughout the free world think of her.

Although Scotland is by no means perfect, our first minister is an extremely shrewd, competent and sharp individual who has ably led this nation for eight years.

She has seen off numerous prime ministers and opposition leaders.

The Supreme Court decision has clarified a number of things including the destruction of any notion that these islands are composed of four equal partners.

It is abundantly clear it is not even the UK that pulls the strings but it is in fact England.

In addition, the decision suggests there is no democratic route to a referendum – far less independence – for the people of Scotland.

Ironic for a United Kingdom which purports to be the epitome of democracy.

Your correspondent – and others – may need reminded this is not about the first minister or indeed the SNP.

It is about the much wider concept of independence and a better future for the people of our nation.

There will be a hard core of SNP supporters who recognise the first minister’s extraordinary abilities and who

will continue to support her through thick and thin.

There is also a growing number of disparate groups which support the concept of Scottish independence whilst not easily supporting the first minister or the SNP.

There will also be a smaller group, wedded to the past, who will happily continue to ignore industrial levels of corruption, rule breaking and law breaking.

These people will continue to reminisce fondly on Thatcherism and all it entailed for Scotland, through rosetinted spectacles.

Finally, there is a growing number of undecided voters, particularly within the younger generation, who are beginning to realise the unfairness of living in a nation

rich in talent and resources which currently has no democratic route to decide its own future.

There is fantastic growing support from throughout Europe for supporters of Scottish independence and for Scotland’s aim to rejoin the EU at the earliest opportunity.

I do believe the first minister knew full well what she was doing and this decision may well have disappointed her but it most certainly will not have come as a complete surprise.

I also firmly believe the Supreme Court decision will continue to positively galvanise views through Scotland and Europe.

Stewart Falconer. Glenisla View,

Alyth.

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