Letter: Resolving conflict

Michael Kelly's comment (31 August) and Bruce Crawford MSP's response (Letters, 1 September) on the issue of a centre for international conflict resolution reveal some of the polarisation which such an initiative could seek to ameliorate.

The potential for such a centre is much more than this exchange suggests. A generation ago, the Edinburgh Conversations showed that Scotland could provide the stage for world-changing diplomacy in the nuclear age.

While there are opportunities to address international conflicts and assist in contributing to the building of civil society elsewhere, there are also opportunities to provide services to help resolve many types of disputes, including those in business, commerce and trade. The real issue is whether Scotland has the competence to do so.

Reform of our legal system is urgent and support for alternative approaches to dispute resolution vital. The recent arbitration legislation is a start. Separately, mediation is a fast growing process and needs policy, legislative and judicial support.

If we aspire to build on our many attributes and are serious about becoming an international centre, we need to demonstrate to others outside Scotland that we have the ability to deliver.

John Sturrock QC

Core Solutions Group

Rutland Square

Edinburgh