Saving the Union

sir – Recent polls show increased support in Scotland for independence, and that some south of Hadrian’s Wall feel they might be well shot of us. May I beg them to remain united?

We are not all rabid nationalists. While Scotland can be viewed as the land of misty glens, grey drizzle, incomprehensible accents, deep-fried Mars bars and the dourness of John Knox, the reality is that we have some spectacular scenery, the sun shines from time to time, we have fine cuisine and some of the warmest-hearted folk you could ever meet.

There is noise about a second independence referendum, but how likely is this to deliver for the SNP? Nicola Sturgeon may have had a good Covid war, but she is also autocratic, and is supported by a supine and ineffectual government. In its time in power, the SNP has failed on almost every front. Its focus is not on delivering a better life for the Scottish people, but on gaining independence.

Another referendum may be likely, but the terms must be different to those of 2014. It was too easy to say yes to the question: “Should Scotland be an independent country?” A better question is: “Do you wish to secede from possibly the most successful union of countries ever conceived, which has opened up so many opportunities for the Scottish people?”

We need the support of our friends across the United Kingdom. Please don’t abandon us in our time of need. Lachlan Rhodes

Huntly, Aberdeenshire