I am glad the First Minister asked the Prime Minister to spell out exactly what would happen to Scotland's budget if we do not vote Yes next year in the independence referendum (The £4bn question, News, December 1).

David Cameron is obviously not prepared to debate the point.

John Swinney was right to say: "Westminster parties are ganging up for a huge smash-and-grab raid on Scotland's finances." It is high time their true intent was exposed by their own admission.

Shirley Seaton

Musselburgh