An anthem for who we are

Published on Thursday 25 November 2004 01:17

FEW subjects have generated more response from readers than our campaign for a new national anthem.

Some MSPs may feel a new anthem is not a serious or pressing priority. Others may regard an anthem as militaristic and overtly jingoist, not in keeping with a country that is supposed to be embracing diversity and working to the Executive’s policy of social inclusion. But no-one is asking the parliament to write the words. On those great occasions of the Scottish state - national matches at Hampden and Murrayfield being prominent but by no means the only ones - Scotland needs an anthem that is rousing and inspiring, especially for the Diaspora of millions of Scots overseas. And the words should celebrate who we are and what we represent rather than define us only in relation to England. The Executive should accept the challenge with a gusto befitting the issue, and strike a note for change.