Sticking point

I wrote to Nicol Stephen a few months ago suggesting the Lib Dems make their opposition to nuclear power a non-negotiable policy in any coalition discussions. He replied stating that he was adamant it would not be in his party's best interests to have any policies that were non-negotiable.

However, it has now become clear that opposing a referendum on independence is categorically non-negotiable. This seems a bizarre stance from a party that claims to be democratic.

In the meantime, Mr Stephen has denied his party a share of power for the next four years. The manifestos of his party and the SNP were remarkably similar, particularly on issues such as the environment and council tax.

It is disappointing that Scotland is to be denied the opportunity of strong and stable government over one issue, and particularly disappointing for Lib Dem voters. .

(DR) DOMINIC HORNE, Church Street, Huntly, Aberdeenshire