Confederation is not the answer

“CONFEDERATION is the way forward for Britain,” writes Randolph Murray (Let’s talk about getting our democracy back, Letters, September 4). A sensible idea, after independence. “Scotland and England to be equal partners dealing with matters of common interest, such as currency and defence.” I agree. Trident and a classic “shorting of sterling” the moment Brexit hit the currency market are examples for discussion.

Divide and rule: Is Brexit and a possible break-up of the EU part of a game by the manipulators of global finance? Today’s power lies with a handful of individuals who use politicians to peddle an illusion of democracy.

Let’s have a sane, independent Scottish voice now on the international stage, and we’ll talk confederation. RANDOLPH Murray is right to call for a restoration of democracy, but wrong in his concept of “a confederation of the British Isles”.

Such a proposal may seem attractive. It is the least disruptive, and people fear change. But there are times when real, radical change is needed, and such a time is now. The litmus test of independence is the life and death question of war and peace. Any talk of devo max, enhanced powers or “federalism” leaves this vital question out of our control.

As part of the British state, we will still have the obscenity of Trident imposed against the will of the people, the churches and all civic society. We will still be dragged into wars on behalf of Big Oil and the American empire. We will see more grief-stricken Rose Gentles lamenting sons dying in futile wars in faraway lands, conned into soldiering by empty propaganda. Talk of a democracy in an unbalanced “confederation” or union of 50 million English and five million Scots is fatuous.