I NOTE quite a few letters from the better off (April 12). I have no sympathy for them. They are the better off as I am and need to pay for proper public services, infrastructure, health services, education, law and order, support for business and the arts.

These cost a fortune, but are vital for a society that is cohesive and at peace with itself.

Scotland is a great country, and the ethos of its people is one of helping those less fortunate while encouraging those who show talent and intelligence to go far.

The present First Minister has all of the above aspirations. If only she could put another referendum on the back burner and get rid of the somewhat malign influence of the co-convenor of the Greens.

John Cruickshank,

Canberra, Whiting Bay, Isle of Arran.