In denial over the named person scheme

Sir, - John Swinney’s comments at the national child protection summit in Perth, confirm the SNP’s state of denial on the named person scheme.

The pilots in various parts of Scotland in recent years, previously lauded, are now dismissed by Mr Swinney as irrelevant in the face of criticism arising from the Liam Fee tragedy.

It is disappointing to hear the Education Secretary repeat the disingenuous wording of the First Minister, claiming the scheme is ‘an entitlement not an obligation’.

Even when experts on all sides say it has no opt out, and given its blanket approach, it never could have.

The scheme follows the controlling instincts of the SNP, applying scarce resources of those directly and indirectly involved in the care of children, across all families rather than focusing on those most in need.

The risks of an inconsistent approach, whether in over-zealous pursuit of the innocent, or in ill serving those most in need due to resources being too thinly spread, are clear.

Yet the SNP’s we know-best attitude is unwavering. Keith Howell. White Moss, West Linton.

Mr Swinney.