Only voting on the basis of self-interest

Sir, – I was greatly disappointed with the letter, Don’t interpret silence as tacit support . . . (May 23), and its tone, from 14 of my colleagues, as senior scientists, including their complaint that our scientific associations will not provide unequivocal support to their personal opinions.

In my research career, I received funding from UK research councils, UK charities, EC, USA, international charities, NATO and industry.

Only the first mentioned can be conceivably affected by independence.

UK charities raise much of their funding in Scotland and will continue to do so (re-classified as international charities for those who think Scotland will be a foreign country) with funding flowing based on the quality of research proposals.

The Wellcome Trust is a global charitable foundation.

The Medical Research

Many people are utterly fed up hearing a lot of “newspeak balderdash” from certain political leaders, such as: “getting focused”, “a level playing field”, “greater transparency”, “taking it onboard”.

Political leaders should stop acting the part and get to grips with the nation’s problems.

We don’t want, or require, a consultancy-orientated government. Kenneth Miln. 22 Fothringham Drive, Monifieth. Council is established by royal charter, “Elizabeth the Second by the Grace of God of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland and of Our other Realms and Territories Queen, Head of the Commonwealth, Defender of the Faith.”

“The council may pursue its objects in Our United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland or elsewhere.” the Russian press was well within its rights in referring to the prince as “a clearly defined eccentric”. Dr John Cameron. 10 Howard Place, StAndrews.

It is particularly disheartening that some of the “cream of our scientific establishment” seem to be placing their vote on the best way forward for five million Scots, solely on the basis of self- interest.

Their children and great grandchildren will not all be scientists! W J Harris. Prof ( Emeritus), 18 Queen Street, Carnoustie.

Is this what we can expect if Scotland votes for independence, that contracts like this will be given to China?

We should be thinking about this country first. Jim Berry. (ex-construction worker), 37 Haldane Terrace, Dundee.