SNP supporter right to speak out

SIR, – Stewart Spence, above, is absolutely correct to say that the proposed relief package by Derek Mackay is a mere ‘sticking plaster’ and that it does not go far enough to address the precarious financial situation most north and north-east businesses are facing.

First, the downturn in Aberdeen has been very severe not just from the massive job losses but also by the fact wages and salaries have been cut which in turn have adversely affected disposable incomes throughout the region. However, what is even of more concern is that the SNP government have said the cap would last only for 12 months which means that they are merely delaying the inevitable and businesses will continue to close and shed jobs unless proper reforms are enacted which reflect ability

“to pay and take into account Aberdeen's unique economic situation within Scotland.

Having said that full marks to Mr Spence (a strong SNP supporter) for putting his head above the parapet and speaking on behalf of many of the badly affected businesses in the north-east and telling the Scottish government to get its act together or suffer the consequences at the polls. Unfortunately for him and other businesses Ms Sturgeon clearly is not listening and must still believe that we are on the ‘cusp of a second oil boom’ (as she predicted before the oil price collapse) and that a temporary cap will be sufficient until the good times return. Ian Lakin, Murtle Den Road, Milltimber, Aberdeen