Tribal dispute

I WAS more than slightly intrigued by the letter from Margaret Salmond (30 December) in which she states that “God distributed land to the various tribes, with precision”.

There was no Scotland until about the year 1000; it gradually began to join with others about 600 years later. Prior to this, where I live was (I believe) part of Northumbria. To which particular tribe is she referring?

Bearing in mind how the Scottish border has moved over the centuries, exactly which land does she refer to?

All nationalisms are essentially artificial constructs; the only things that matter are humanity at large, and the sanctity of human life. Which tribe we belong to is of little significance.

WILLIaM BaLLaNTINe (CSW) highlighted not only Christian communities being targeted but Shia Muslim groups also. It might interest George, a confessed atheist, that CSW also met an atheist in Indonesia who was imprisoned for his beliefs.

What is not often reported is that when the extremists of any group attack others, it is often the moderates of that group who will help the victims.

Despite religion being blamed for wars, as George Kerevan states, faith groups do contribute to sustainable communities, relieve poverty and find peace.

Thank you for bringing the persecution of religious communities to public attention.

IreNe MUNro that wind turbines are causing death, serious health problems and pollution in China.

The serious health problems include cancer, osteoporosis and skin and respiratory diseases.

on the outskirts of Baotou there is an immense lake of bubbling toxic waste five miles wide.

This vast, hissing cauldron of chemicals is the dumping ground for seven million tons a year of rare earth residue after it has been processed.

cLark croSS Maybe Miliband should discuss this in a live debate with Nicola Sturgeon.

- Stanis Where was Labour when the vote on the bedroom tax took place?

- Dickybeau

It amazes me that Labour What? Stop the boat! Miliband has an opinion on independence? He should be encouraging Scottish Labour to go it alone in an independent Scotland. It’s the only way Labour will see power for a long time.

- Ramboposter