A Scottish first?

With 1 January fast approaching I thought it timely to remind your readers that before 1752 in England the year began on 25 March Lady’s day. From 1 September 1752 the year began on 1 January.

But, in Scotland, since 1600 the year began on 1 January. In this regard I would refer your readers to:

“Ordinance Concerning the Beginning of The Year” at Holyrood House on 17 December 1599 by King James VI.

To quote: “The King and Lords in his Secret Council, understanding that in all other well governed Commonwealths thefirstdayoftheyearbeginson At this time of year MSPS’ must be gathering their thoughts about the year ahead. May I suggest that all should consider the following New Year’s resolutions?

No banging on desks, no clapping and no jeering or cheering.

If all were to agree, Holyrood might actually begin to look like a parliament rather than a school playground shouting match.