Levenmouth link

I was disturbed by the news that the Scottish Government’s budget for 2017-18 had been underspent by around half a billion pounds out of a total budget of £31.4 billion.

Finance Minister Derek Mackay claimed some would becarriedforwardandasmall amount set aside for reserves. He gave “prudent budgeting” as the reason, but a more farsighted Government would have seized the opportunity to invest in areas like Levenmouth that continue to lag further behind.

One-tenth of this sum could have quickly reinstated the Levenmouth rail link, creating short-term and some longer-term jobs, bringing opportunities for work, study and leisure not available to its residents. That would be prudent management and a gesture towards an inclusive economy. JAMES ROBERTSON

Leven, Fife