Where are benefits of UK?

Sir, - Keith Howell (July 17) writing purporting to explain the benefits of Westminster governance, uses most of his letter to complain about SNP policies he doesn’t agree with, including a sly attempt at pinning Tory austerity on the Scottish Government.

When Mr Howell eventually does turn his attention to any union benefits, we are given a vague and unconvincing list in support of his argument.

Bailouts during the financial crash were one example. The Treasury admitted in 2014 that Scotland has no debt, and bears no responsibility for London’s actions. This begs the question, where and when did these Scottish bailouts take place?

National defence and security is also listed. A cross-services committee concluded, during the independence debate, that Scotland could provide a better-equipped force, more suited to our needs than we have presently, for much less cost. So, no union benefit there.

As for the rest of Mr Howell’s list, which includes the welfare state, enterprise, science, technology and so on, is the gentleman seriously suggesting an independent Scotland wouldn’t have flourished in those areas?

Mr Howell attacks the SNP’s policy record, but fails, when addressing Westminster, to point to any policies which benefits Scotland.

We still await a convincing argument for continuation of London rule which apparently gives us so much. Ken Clark. 335 King Street, Broughty Ferry.