Vague promises
by Unknown - 20:26 on 08 September 2014
I note that the H M Government, in Westminster, via Scotland Office, have been placing full page advertisements in the Orcadian and other papers, in recent weeks, presumably. I assume this is paid for by us, the taxpayers. In contrast, the community based grass roots YES campaign concentrates on meeting and speaking to the people. It largely depends on, often small private donations, and does not have the means to pay for full page adverts.
On “keep the pound”, everybody on both sides of the campaign knows that on 19th September, and in the foreseeable future, this is what will happen. Why would anyone want to erect artificial hurdles to deliberately damage future trading between Scotland and Rest of U K or Europe.
On the economy, we all agree that creating more jobs is a desirable outcome. The present Scottish Government have done well, in this respect, since 2007. However, having full or greater control of economic levers, allows more to be done. Evidence from neighbouring northern European countries backs this up.
Cheaper bills are unlikely, whichever side wins, even if inflation remains low. Privatised U K public services have a poor record on controlling price rises. However a Government, in Scotland, much closer to the people, is more likely to be responsive to economic needs.
The “best of both worlds is also an assertion”. Based on evidence, a Scottish based Government, is more likely to stand up for our interests, in Europe and beyond, than relying on the present Tory- Lib-Dem Coalition to represent our businesses, industries and people.
The Act of Union of 1707 was seen as a partnership between countries, not a colonial solution where decisions can be imposed, against Scottish interests. Likewise, everyone knows that, having been in the E U for forty years, Scotland will be staying in Europe. Farmers in Orkney and throughout rural Scotland have much to gain from a YES vote.
Clearly, having our own government ministers at the top table, will help. Funding for farming, per hectare is much lower, in Scotland, than anywhere else, in Europe. The EU recognised this, by allocating 230 million euros to compensate Scottish farmers, last December. Unfortunately the Westminster Government chose to pass on 14.4 % of this sum. The remainder disappeared somewhere in the Treasury pot, to the detriment of Orkney’s farmers.
I am concerned by the treatment of many elderly, disabled, under privileged and unemployed people by the present Government. Clearly “the best of both worlds statement” does not always work. Devo-Max was not an option we were allowed to have on the ballot paper. There are no guarantees on extra powers in the event of a NO Vote. Indeed extra powers are more likely to be kicked into the long grass by the Tory- Lib Dem Coalition.
JRM
Add your comment