Such a parcel of rogues
Congratulations to Alistair Carmichael on his new job as David Cameron’s whipping boy. While he protests that he is not part of a Tory government, let’s remind ourselves of what his new job actually is: coercing Liberal MPs elected on a Liberal manifesto into voting for Tory policies overwhelmingly rejected by the people of Shetland, Orkney and Scotland.
I suspect Tavish Scott sleeps sounder as the most senior opposition Liberal politician alive. Now is the time to demand of him a commitment to rejecting a Tory coalition government in Scotland next year, should the circumstances arise.
This last week has seen much recollection of politics from the past, and I came across these words from Scotland’s greatest advocate of fairness and liberal values:
What force or guile could not subdue,
Thro’ many warlike ages,
Is wrought now by a coward few,
For hireling traitor’s wages …
… But pith and power, till my last hour,
I will make this declaration:
‘We are bought and sold for English gold’ –
Such a parcel of rogues in a nation!
Sometimes power comes at a price too high for any honourable man to pay.
David A Clark
62 St Olaf Street,
Lerwick.
Stella Winks
What a stinging attack by Mr. Clark – MPs have barely had their backsides in their seats, as part of the new coalition government, and they are being slated!
As for ‘Whipping Boy’ term – the ‘Whip’ metaphorically does the whipping and is not the recipient.
My impression of the new coaltion is that both parties are determined to work together with both sides operating a tentative give-and-take attitude. Before shouts of ‘naive’ ring loud – it has to be considered that it is in both parties interests to make it work. As well as ours!
Having suffered years under the awful (I could use many more colourful terms) Labour so-called government – then the current regime is a breath, of very welcome, fresh air.
Regardless of anyone’s political leanings it is clear that Alistair Carmichael and Tavish Scott work very hard for these islands and are passionate about them. To be frank it sounds as if Mr. Clark voted ‘elsewhere’ politically as his letter is dripping with the juice of sour grapes.
One point – I am not in favour of the VIKING ENERGY scheme and I am concerned about any representative politicians’ views on the subject – including the gentlemen slated by Mr.Clark. However, I feel Alistair and Tavish are very well equipped to listen to islanders’ views and remain hopeful that high-level political support is proven to be given against the scheme. (Yes I am aware of the opinions recorded by all candidates on the subject prior to the election!)
I am grateful for the electoral outcome – I was fearful that some far-right nutters were going to gain seats, a fear that was, fortunately, groundless and that Labour could serve another term! (Stuff of nightmares!)
Stella Winks
Tronvale
Trondra
Shetland