Corbyn pact

Jeremy Corbyn has clearly caught the imagination of many on the Left. But what a tragedy it would be for Labour and progressive politics if he contemplated any kind of pact with the SNP (“Corbyn would make a pact with the SNP to become prime minister”, 7 August).

In the heat of the referendum debate the Scottish Left seemed to fall for the pretence that the SNP were really about social justice rather than their main ambition of separation from the UK. Yet surely an Islington MP is sufficiently distant from the maelstrom of Scottish politics to see the reality.

I was born in Islington, amongst the working-class supporters upon whom Jeremy has depended for support.

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Having made Scotland my home for the past 25 years, I have seen the impact of divisive and insular Scottish nationalism on our country, reflected as much in declining public services as in the sometimes caustic public debate.

The voters in Jeremy’s north London constituency surely would feel betrayed if he were to set aside his principles for short-term political gain in any kind of pact with nationalists.

Keith Howell

West Linton

Peeblesshire

I used to define myself as “Labour”, but have felt despair at the interpretation put on its demise. At one time it was possible to understand the philosophy, and trust the ethics, of the party but it seems over (many) recent years its only objective is to get into power, adopting, in order to do so, policies which have no more sincerity than a design to attract confused votes.

The contortions undertaken to achieve this signify an abandonment of principles in order to advance personal careers. I no longer wish to vote for a party named “Labour” merely to project careerist politicians into power. The emergence of Jeremy Corbyn could well turn my head from the SNP. He represents sane principles that are worth fighting for (and there are so many of us out here needing them).

I do not necessarily care if Labour fails to regain power immediately, but I do seriously care that I can recognise and vote for someone who stands for ethics I understand.

Finally, if Tony Blair (surely one of the most self-serving, power-hungry black princes of all time) is granted continued credibility, status and voice by “New Labour”, I welcome a party rift. He has far too long muddied the water and usurped principles he does not understand or represent.

Jan Tapson

Colville Place

Edinburgh