Write the rules

Joyce Mcmillan is right that federalism is not a cure for the Union’s ills (Perspective, 7 May). Federalism wouldn’t have prevented the Iraq War, rid us of nuclear weapons at Faslane or stopped the Brexit fiasco. Federalism won’t work because England is too large and dominant. Gordon Brown popping up again to advise a constitutional commission doesn’t inspire confidence and juxtaposing his name with a constitutional “revolution” is oxymoronic.

However, there is no reason departure from the UK should be acrimonious. Much depends on the UK negotiating in good faith. And let’s not forget that Scotland has other choices upon independence to forge new international ties. These include immediately joining the Nordic Council, EFTA and the European Economic Area before any vote on re-entry to the EU takes place.

A Union based on coercion rather than consent is destined to fail. Ms Mcmillan refers to the vagaries of the UK constitution. But the UK has no written constitution. It relies solely on parliamentary sovereignty and an archaic first past the post voting system that virtually guarantees minority rule.

An independent Scotland would be wise to have a writhe ten constitution that articulates the basic principles of the state, the structures and processes of government and the rights of citizens that cannot be overruled by a regular legislative act. Hopefully our departure will inspire England to do the same.

LEAH GUNN BARRETT Merchiston Crescent, Edinburgh