Long-term costs

Matt Qvortrup’s piece (Perspective, 6 February) arguing that what bosses say automatically alienates us ordinary people has a ring of truth. But where does that leave politicians and their public relations spinners who are viewed with similar disdain. In the context of the separation vote, if £500 a year really can sway folks’ votes, then offering that must be a surefire 
winner, and damn both bosses and PR men.

Unfortunately, reality is that independence is forever, and whatever gloss is put on it, the oil revenues are declining.

Faced with the latest estimates that care for the elderly will top £8 billion a year well before the next 50 years are up, and will continue to rise, finding even £500 a year a head for five million of us looks daunting.

Westminster is having its own difficulties in financing the old, so expecting it, Tory or Labour or whatever, to be the lender of last resort for us when we cannot manage our own accumulating debts is a no-no.

Once again one has to ask how the increasing revenues needed for us to keep going are going to be generated long term.

Joe Darby

Cullicudden

Dingwall, Ross-shire