Ukip appeal

Those eager to brand Ukip as beyond the pale of civilised political debate play into Ukip’s hands. There are huge swathes of the electorate who hold views that the Holyrood consensus regards as beyond the pale.

For example, those constantly attacking critics of gay “marriage” as unenlightened “outdated” “homophobes” might cement their political image among the political and media elite, but they shouldn’t be 
surprised that a party has now emerged reflecting such previously unrepresented views.

It’s democracy in action –widely held views can only be excluded from the political 
system for so long.

Richard Lucas

Broomyknowe

Edinburgh