I have been asked by my Prime Minister, Mr Cameron, to write to you to say how important our historic link with Scotland is. As an obedient citizen, I must comply with his request and ask you to consider a number of points before casting your vote in the independence referendum on September 14th. Scotland has always been a dynamic and progressive force within the UK, producing not only some outstanding politicians (Keir Hardie, John Wheatley and, let’s be fair, Gordon Brown) but writers such as Burns, Scott and Stevenson, painters including ‘The Glasgow boys’ and any number of hugely talented engineers. As far as railways go, you gave us the Forth Bridge, the ‘Cardean’ class of locomotive, and the great locomotive builders of Springburn. And, let’s not forget Scotland’s greatest gift to the world, whisky.
So why leave? Staying within the UK will allow you to enjoy
the continuing benefits of London government and its continued attachment to
neo-liberal politics. Instead of being left undefended by a reckless
nationalist government in Edinburgh, you will have a new generation of Trident
submarines to keep you safe. On your occasional visits to London you will have
an outstanding transport system to enjoy, as a result of the disproportionate
investment going into the capital’s infrastructure. All subjects of the Empire
will benefit from this, however infrequently you may chance to visit - and HS2 will allow you get to London far more quickly. The
many tunnels will avoid any unpleasant views of derelict industry and decaying
housing in the north of England, that may blight your view en route.
By voting for independence you will hasten the demise of
‘Great Britain’ as we know it. An independent Scotland would be free to go its
own way and instigate the sort of policies which have resulted in places like
Norway, Sweden and Denmark becoming bywords for profligacy, welfare spending
and egalitarianism. Public spending has been diverted away from defence into
building new railways and improving schools and hospitals. Everyone is forced
to cycle. Is this the sort of world you want your children to grow up in? And think about the effect of
Scottish independence on the rest of our United Kingdom. Wales will be next,
wanting to go its own way ‘within Europe’. Here in the North of England, the 15
million subjects of the crown may get increasingly restless and want their own
government. A scenario could open up of a ‘federal’ Britain with the power of
London considerably reduced. Is this really what you want? If you
prefer things to carry on pretty much as they are, please support our Prime Minister and vote 'No'.
