Red herrings

Published on 30/10/2012 00:00

Andrew Gray’s letter (29 October) contains so many myths and fantasy claims that it is difficult to give a brief response.

Legal advice from several sources confirms that, following the dissolution of the Treaty of Union, both Scotland and the rest of the UK (rUK) would be two continuing successor European Union states, both in exactly the same position.

If Spain tries to be difficult, it will be reminded that we Scottish taxpayers make a net contribution to the EU budget and could deny the Spanish fleet access to the lucrative Scottish fishing waters.

There is no reason why a Scottish Government would pay anything for the removal of Trident, as the London government would be desperate to keep these weapons under its control and the published SNP defence plans will produce more jobs at Faslane and Coulport as the Scottish navy would be based there.

Even if we were to maintain defence spending exactly as it is now, we’d still have an extra £1.5 billion a year to play with as there is a massive defence under-investment in Scotland at present. It is also in London’s interest to have a common currency with Scotland to maintain economic stability, particularly given the fragile state of the UK finances.

Every day, the anti-independence supporters come up with another red herring and no doubt Alex Salmond will be accused of infanticide before long.

Fraser Grant

Warrender Park Road

Edinburgh

I read Andrew HN Gray’s letter with some amusement. He has stated many of his opinions as “facts”.

To dispute Mr Gray’s “facts” is a waste of time, however I am grateful that he raised the issue of Malta – a country I have lived in, and know very well. Malta has done much better since its independence than it did under British rule. I’m sure Mr Gray is a man of honour, and that when he realises which way is “up” and that the game is finally “up”, he will refer himself to an independent inquiry!

Bill McLean

Newmills

Dunfermline

Scotland is currently in the European Union as an integral part of the United Kingdom, which is an EU member.

When Scotland becomes independent, the United Kingdom will cease to exist and two successor states – Scotland and the rUK will come into being.

If Scotland would have to re-apply for EU membership, by the same token so, too, would rUK. Has Prime Minister David Cameron taken any legal advice on whether rUK would have to re-apply? I think we should be told.

Peter Swain

Innerwick

Dunbar