Figure it out

Reasoning that because “independence is a very emotive issue” the 15 per cent of the registered electorate who did not vote could be considered as rejecting independence is stretching common sense more than a little, while rounding down the resultant figure of 38 per cent of those “entitled” to vote and voting Yes to only 30 per cent merely compounds the apparent desperation of his/her argument.

To avoid further misrepresentation by those now attempting to justify a minimal devolution settlement that would be far removed from the infamous “vow” represented by Gordon Brown as effectively “home rule”, as well as possibly the further embarrassment of E Cartwright, the following figures deserve some contemplation.

While a “clear majority” of 55 per cent voted to reject independence at this time, the two million votes cast by those voting No represent a 47 per cent minority of registered voters, a 45 per cent minority of the electorate and a 38 per cent minority of the population.

These figures do not in any way undermine the democratic legitimacy of the No victory, but they should be studiously considered among those who are sincere in wishing to progress the aspirations of the “vast majority” of Scotland’s citizens, including the poor and less privileged whose views were perhaps relatively under-represented on 18 September.

Stan Grodynski

Longniddry

East Lothian