Undue influence

On the basis of a recent poll, let us suppose the SNP wins 48 per cent of the vote and most of the seats in Scotland, and enters a coalition with Labour at Westminster.

Then it will share power over the whole UK population, of whom only 4 per cent will have voted for it.

It would be wrong if the 
party exploited this quirk of the system, threw its disproportionate weight about and tried to impose its will where a majority disagreed with it.

So far, Ms Sturgeon & Co have failed to show they can take a larger view, act like statesmen and represent everyone.

The time to start is now, in their pre-election rhetoric. It is not just their own honour and reputation that are at stake, but those of Scotland.

Would the UK dog like being wagged by its tail? Might it want it docked – that is, ask Scotland to leave? That would suit the SNP, I suppose but what a shameful way to go!

George Byron

Comely Bank Avenue

Edinburgh

The political frenzy that has erupted over the popularity of the SNP at this election has certainly awakened UK politicians.

They should be putting the case for their parties, but are instead spending their energy promoting the SNP as they castigate possible future wheeling and dealing .

But your report dealing with the key issues of the SNP manifesto (21 April) really says it all, as it highlights the many policy issues reserved to Westminster, issues that impact on daily life in Scotland, yet are legislated on by a majority English Westminster government.

Scotland is fully aware that the majority of the population live in England, but should that result in no voice for Scotland, as has been the case for many a year?

The unionist parties last year kept telling us Scotland should lead the UK, not leave it – sentiments which may be coming home to roost, resulting in a political frenzy.

Catriona C Clark

Hawthorn Drive

Falkirk