Subject: Referendums                            Date: Wed, 11 Jan 2012 21:22:47 +0000

In a rare show of unity all three political parties demonstrate their opposition
to the First Minister of Scotland, Alec Salmon’s decision to have a referendum on
Independence in 2014.  The Prime Minister of the United Kingdom, David Cameron
wants the referendum to be earlier and the Deputy first Minister, Nicola Sturgeon,
responds  ” here we go again” claiming that David Cameron is interfering in Scotltish
affairs.
Of course all this started with Tony Blair and Gordon Brown the latter, in particular,
promoting the devolved parliament for Scotland, but with appparent safeguards to prevent the
Scottish Nationists  getting an over-all majority.  It has become a nightmare for the
United Kingdom Government.  Having given the Scottish Parliament more and more powers
Oliver Twist Salmon is continually present asking  ” can I have more”.
So the Scottish people have had three referendums over the years, and their powers
have been increased by the United Kingdom Government, but I ask “when have the
people of England had the opportunity to have a referendum on our future  political role?
Much resentment is building up in England at the favouritism shown north of the border.
As Tam Dalyell reminded the House of Commons  in 1999.” For how long will
English Cconstituences and English honourable members tolerate at least 119 members
exercising an important and decisive effect on English politics.”
In 2012 the United Kigdom government is still pacifying the Scottish Parliament but
has failed abysmally to address the democratic deficit in England. The fuse is getting
shorter!

Tom Jackson

Stockport