I WRITE in defence of the advertisement signed by a cross-section of the Scottish Catholic Community in Scotland, including my father, supporting a Yes vote.

Clearly this has greatly annoyed the Labour MP and MSPs who wrote to your paper (Letters, September 17) trying to suggest that there was something wrong about these people speaking out in support of their belief that a Yes vote will make possible a more socially just Scotland.

It is not surprising that Labour MPs and MSPs should find this an affront. For many years they have expected Catholics, like other voters in Scotland, to vote Labour, get to the back of the bus and shut up (to use Elaine C Smith's memorable words).

They don't wish to be reminded that their party has failed the most vulnerable and poor in our society. If, as they claim, there is discord in this country, then the fault lies at least partly at their door for years of failing those whom they purport to represent.

It is disingenuous for them to attempt to twist the words of the Pope to suggest he would support a status quo where the voices of the vulnerable and poor are ignored whilst their so-called representatives prosper. Their insinuation that there is something sectarian about Catholics speaking out is disgraceful.

After recent scandals it is good to see ordinary Catholics from across Scottish society reminding us what the church should really be about - standing up for justice and peace. I applaud their courage in so doing.

Joanna Cherry QC,

Convenor of Lawyers for Yes,

Advocates Library,

Parliament House,

Edinburgh.