Bogus bonuses

The apparent desire of the Scottish Liberals to attack the salaries of high earners is misplaced, particularly as this is largely targeting senior hospital doctors.

Even in budget debate the distinction awards system was again misrepresented as a "bonus" system, no doubt to draw unfavourable analogies with bankers. The two systems could not be more different; one is a performance-related salary awarded to limited numbers to reward demonstrably distinguished service over the preceding ten to 15 years; the other is a bonus involving larger sums which is widely available, apparently irrespective of performance.

If Tavish Scott seriously wants to help alleviate the budget deficit he should look closer to home. Next year mortgage interest claims will cease and there may well be a spate of MSPs selling their taxpayer-funded second homes. Since 2005 Mr Scott has accrued a nest-egg of 120,000 in his second home in Morningside, and even if he declares a capital gain he will still be left with a handsome sum. Now that's what I would call a bonus.

ALAN EVANS

Flisk

Cupar, Fife

Ten labour MPs in Scotland have indicated their intention to stand down at the next general election costing the taxpayer some 600,000 in "resettlement grants" (your report, 2 February).

I am not suggesting any rules are being broken, but this is yet another case of the public sector receiving very generous enhancements. Over a year's salary as a golden handshake for resigning – in what other job could one expect this?

Taxpayers eagerly await the general election for an opportunity to give their verdict.

CATRIONA C CLARK

Hawthorn Drive

Falkirk, Stirlingshire

Am I alone in being enraged at the constant exhortation to waste my hard-earned income by paying senior public employees "competitive packages to attract the best people"? What is the logic behind the assumption that greedy people are the best?

We all hope for "the best" in many situations: nursing staff when we are in hospital; teachers who teach our children etc, but there will never be the money to pay them "competitive packages".

It is time that the people in highly paid jobs realised that the rest of us have been pushed too far in paying for their lifestyle and that the inequality is rapidly destroying our society. Even they will, at some time, need the services of us lesser mortals.

KATHRYN SHELBOURN

Greenbank Rise

Edinburgh