Flexibility needed

At long last could we be on the point of seeing an element of flexibility enter into the Scottish political scene? Instead of outright “independence” perhaps the route for ward may well be one in which the Central Bank, Currency, Foreign Affairs and Defence remain within the control of Westminster, whilst all other matters would be dealt with at regional government level at Edinburgh; and in the cases of Wales and Northern Ireland at Cardiff and Belfast respectively.

Some common sense will certainly be needed to resolve the current impasse, particularly between Westminster and Holy rood. In 2014 the electorate of Scotland chose to remain in the UK. The SNP has singularly failed to respect that vote. All the intermediary polls in the world do not substitute for the democratic process.

It will be very interesting to hear how the SNP feel about the idea of the Northern Isles of Orkney and Shetland, and also perhaps Caithness considering a break away from Scotland; or even a similar plan being countenanced by the electorate in the Scottish Borders.

It will present a real challenge for Sturgeon and her more zealous disciples to admit there might have to be an alternative to the present impasse. Their current refusal to compromise is more than equally matched by the UK Government’s perfectly valid claim that matters relating to the constitution remain totally within the Westminster remit; and I am sure this view would be validated by the UK Supreme Court.

The time has come for a rethink on the way for ward regarding such matters, and it is heartening to note that quite a number of SNP stalwarts are beginning to give consideration to a greater degree of compromise. The problem lies in persuading the absolute diehards, including the First Minister herself. But surely the most important factor is democracy, not the aspirations of individuals. ROB ER TI G SCOTT Northfield, Ceres, Fife