Embrace change and uproot old views

While Gordon Brown performs a slick but shameful retreat from facing up to the inadequacies of the Smith Commission Report, the usual unionist “suspects” would have us believe that the content is effectively irrelevant because the report was prepared within the time-frame set out (by the same Mr Brown).

It seems Messrs Cartwright, Hamilton and Gray (Letters, 1 & 2 December) would appear to prefer the Scottish public to move on and not rigorously assess the details of the 
report either against the “vow” and the statements made by Gordon Brown or in the context of whether the recommendations of the report are workable in practice to achieve the desired goals of a fairer and more prosperous society.

Such views are perhaps understandable among those who are convinced that, as with other important matters, Westminster can be relied upon to act in the best interests of the people of Scotland, but recent history as well as a little objectivity would suggest that such views are either naïve or disingenuous.

The world is changing and those whose perspectives are rooted in the past and wish to cling to the comfort of long-held views without re-assessment in light of latest developments are not only letting themselves down, but more sadly are condemning many children in Scotland to lives dictated by others remote from their communities and who are motivated more
by selfish ambition than
genuine concern for their 
fellow citizens.

Stan Grodynski

Longniddry

East Lothian

What a load of mince is being written and published about the Smith recommendations for additional devolved powers from Westminster to Holyrood.

The political parties that encouraged folk to vote against full independence have conceded the bare minimum of new powers to prevent being accused of “welshing” on the pre-referendum promises.

Those who sought a Yes vote have grabbed all they can without damaging their separatist credentials.

We know it’s a game; they know it’s a game; they know that we know that it’s a game. We know that they know that we know it’s a game.

Why on earth do we 
bother?

David Fiddimore

Calton Road

Edinburgh