Less seamlessness

I find his view on the nature of the accession process refreshingly candid. The use of the word “seamless” to describe the likely process originated in the white paper and is repeated routinely by the SNP. Mr Turner wishes to dissociate himself from this description. I only wish that SNP politicians could display the same honesty.

On the question of Jose Manuel Barroso’s statements I would, of course, accept Professor Keating’s judgment. I would, however, ask this: was Prof Keating describing the process of recommendation and acceptance on what we might call the “standard” or “basic” terms – by which I mean terms which exclude opt-outs currently enjoyed by the UK and not by all the member states?

Any honest assessment would conclude that Scotland would be admitted. But is honesty not also required in accepting that there would indeed be difficulties in securing the same terms as currently enjoyed?

Colin Hamilton

Braid Hills Avenue

Edinburgh

Douglas Turner (Letters, 16 May) seems to object to the use of the word “seamless” in respect of Scotland’s entry to the European Union. The word “seamless” was first used by Alex Salmond in telling us all how easy it was going to be for Scotland to enter the EU.

Mr Turner shows his colours in referring dismissively to “lots of eminent folk with lots of letters after their name”. Perhaps he will lead the purge on academics and other such enemies of the democratic state after independence?

Finally, Mr Turner clearly did not read my letter (15 May) properly or he would have seen that I was at pains to say that no-one was suggesting Scotland would not be allowed to join the EU, but that they would have to obtain unanimous agreement to the terms of joining from all other member states.

Donald Lewis

Gifford

East Lothian