SCOTLAND hears ad nauseam about the “precious union” and the Tory boast of governing in the best interest of “the whole of the United Kingdom”. Does the Chancellor prior to his final Budget effort consult with Northern Ireland, Scotland or Wales? Had he done so it is certain that the fact would have been emphasised in the House, the absence of such clearly indicating that he did not. His omniscience is no more reliable or realistic than his promises.

It is equally certain that his actions are influenced by his overwhelming aim, no doubt instructed by his boss, to concoct measures which will assist in keeping his party in power. The DUP it will be noted have again come off rather well!

Once again the Tory party’s main supporters have been well looked after, which can’t be said of their detractors, but since they can’t lose what they did not have why should the Tories bother much about the latter?

The “precious union” is becoming daily more and more discredited, a natural feature of an anachronistic, unworkable, selfish institution struggling to cling to its undeserved position.
John Hamilton
Bearsden