WHEN there is a conspicuous lack of facts to discuss and consider, journalists have to think of something else to write about.

Now it is Tony Blair's turn for Ian Bell's attention ("Blair's endorsement is last thing No campaign needs", The Herald, July 23).

What on earth, I wonder, has this referendum got to do with Tony Blair?

Why should this referendum preoccupy any current politician?

This small insignificant country on the northern periphery of Europe will be an irrelevance in the grand scheme of world affairs long after the politicians of today, even Alex Salmond, have passed into history. That's what this referendum is about.

JB Mathie,

16 Sheepburn Road,

Glasgow.

IAN Bell lays bare the real driving force that is behind Tony Blair's and Labour's commitment to devolution: saving the Union. In the interests of transparency the people's party should now be re branding itself as the Scottish Labour and Unionist Party.

Roddy MacDonald,

1 Glenmount Place,

Ayr.