All deficits matter

We are a long way from an evidence-based debate about Scotland’s dire financial position. The ongoing coverage of the latest Government and Expenditure Figures (GERS) demonstrates the competence deficit amongst both politicians and commentators.

Reference by Scott Macnab (Perspective, August 31) to the GERS being Scotland’s balance sheet is simply wrong. GERS are nothing more than an unaudited pro forma statement of income and expenditure. The Scottish Government doesn’t publish Whole Government Accounts For Scotland on an International Financial Reporting Standards basis. If it did then the true extent of the ever increasing liabilities, including public sector pensions and share of UK borrowings, would be painfully evident on a comprehensive balance sheet as prepared under WGA.

For Derek Mackay MSP, as Cabinet Secretary for Finance, to dismiss the £15bn deficit shown by GERS as not being relevant demonstrates the credibility gap the Scottish Government has created for itself. All deficits matter and add to the national debt which will have to be repaid in the future.

Both the opposition parties and the media need to hold the SNP to account on its shoddy and opaque financial disclosures and its denial of Scotland’s fiscal distress. A few Paxman style engagements would certainly enliven and inform the debate. ROBERT MILLER-BAKEWELL

Whiterigg, Melrose