Place in history

It would be a pity if Bute House as the First Minister’s residence was lost on grounds of economy (your report, 8 October).

As well as reflecting in Charlotte Square the ambience of Edinburgh’s New Town and the Scottish Enlightenment, it also played a role in the devolution process. The negotiation to acquire Bute House was initiated in 1968 by Sir Leonard Paton, chairman of the London Committee of the Scottish Council Development and Industry, as a fitting residence for the Scottish Secretary.

With a resurgence of the home rule debate, he felt that it would enhance the status of the Secretary of State.

Donald Dewar used Bute House as his headquarters while executing his plan for the Scottish Parliament.

Bute House, with its emphasis on the best of Scottish renaissance architecture, is a useful balance to the more functional 1930s St Andrew’s House and the 21st-century Scottish Parliament building.

Jim Gorie

Scottish Office press secretary 1966-71

Cambell Street

Helensburgh