Richard MacKinnon presents a somewhat radical proposal that the resignation of Alex Salmond might prove to be a "game changer" in the independence debate (Letters, July 28).

However, I am somewhat confused as to why giving in to those who have personalised the independence debate as Alex Salmond's "personal vanity project" would in any way advance the possibilities of a Yes result. If some voters voice a reluctance to support the Yes campaign because they don't like Alex Salmond, then I would suggest that the best way to persuade them otherwise is to point out that supporting independence does not equate to supporting Alex Salmond. I don't think it is wise to expect him to step down because of the ill-conceived perceptions of some of the electorate.

Most people realise that September 18 is not about giving Alex Salmond a mandate to run Scotland in the future, that will be decided at the Holyrood elections of May 2016. Referendum day is when we decide on the future of our nation, not on the future of Alex Salmond. Those who think otherwise are incorrect and they should not be pandered to by giving them the metaphorical head of the First Minister.

Alex Salmond is the main conduit through whom we are soon to reach our day of decision; after that it is up to the people of Scotland to democratically decide what role he should have in being the architect of an independent Scotland. Persuading Alex Salmond to "fall on his own sword" before referendum day will simply give his detractors the opportunity to say that he's feart.

Alan Carroll,

24 The Quadrant,

Clarkston,

Glasgow.

RUTH Marr (Letters, July 29) is quite right in hoping that Alex Salmond will not stand aside if Scotland votes in September to become an independent country. If there is a Yes vote then Mr Salmond has the responsibility of delivering all the promises that have been made in the White Paper, Scotland's Future.

It is Mr Salmond and not some substitute who should have sleepless nights as the negotiations proceed in the 18-month period between the referendum and independence. If Mr Salmond and the Scottish Government have made promises which cannot be fulfilled then it should be they who fail to deliver and not someone else to whom the blame can be apportioned.

Sandy Gemmill,

40 Warriston Gardens,

Edinburgh.