JUST listened to John Swinney addressing the party and media at the campaign launch. I could not disagree with anything he said.

He told of the achievements of the SNP, and explained that Labour will not be any better than the Tories for Scotland. How could I disagree?

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However, I have always believed that a majority of MPs elected from Scottish constituencies whose stated aim is Scottish independence is a mandate for independence. John Swinney went almost all the way in his speech but did not say the actual words, “a vote at this General Election for the SNP is a vote for independence”.

Until these words are said, a vote for the SNP is merely a vote for a referendum on independence, in fact it is not even that.

Please John, in the party’s manifesto, just say the words.

Alex Kerr
Paisley