Future of constitution (Les Sinclair)

Your article and editorial in last week’s paper relating to the current debate on Scotland’s constitutional future raises interesting questions.

Brian Wilson is possibly correct when he says that the failure of centralism has made the case for autonomy, but his justification for that statement in relation to Shetland seems weak.

Perhaps Mr Wilson is unaware of the events leading up to the June 2010 Accounts Commission inquiry and the consequent issues at the SIC? Could he justify swapping London-centred government for Edinburgh-centred government being a departure from centralism if the electorate answer “yes” to the impending referendum question?

Danus Skene, in typical nationalist form, pleads some sort of special case existing to justify a “negotiated position” for Shetland within an independent Scotland. What will his answer be to communities across Scotland who plead similar special cases? What will the resulting face of Scottish government look like when all these special cases have been negotiated?

Malcolm Bell brings a note of sanity to this issue when he says that reasoned debate is the only way forward. It is up to everyone to ensure they contribute to this debate in order that the true outcome of a “yes” vote is fully appreciated.

Les Sinclair
8 Annsbrae Place,
Lerwick.