Let’s vote again

The Scottish Parliament came about largely through the hard work and consensus building of civic and political Scotland working together in a Scottish Constitutional Convention. The SNP was notably absent.

The first two terms of that Parliament saw an emphasis on the devolved areas of health and education, in which many had felt a democratic deficit. Two parties, Scottish Labour and the Scottish Liberal Democrats, formed working coalitions and proved that community of interest can trump party differences.

The SNP inherited a Parliament which was working well. However, the SNP lost its overall majority at the last Scottish Parliament election and, many would argue, its way. A blinkered campaign for independence has diverted attention from health, education and social care and we are all suffering. Now the SNP are trying to appropriate all things Scottish – but our culture does not belong to any one political party. No wonder people are increasingly angry.

MOYRA FORREST

Starbank Road, Edinburgh Referenda are in fashion, it seems, and no decision is final – so perhaps we should hold a third referendum on devolution. We have had the Parliament at Holyrood for 18 years now, but is it more benefit or burden? At our expense, politicians have awarded themselves a £414 million palace and large salaries – the First Minister’s is £135,000. In returntheyhavechangedsome details of life in Scotland – but is life here really better than it would be if the Parliament did not exist? Is our health better? Education? Transport?

Above all, are we happier? Something that makes life uncertain and many people unhappy is the current drive to hold a second vote on independence. Devolution has allowed parties with 47 per cent of the vote to pursue a policy rejected by 55 per cent of voters. Our Parliament is serving itself and not us. In a referendum, how many of us would vote to keep it?

GEORGE BYRON

Comely Bank Avenue, Edinburgh