YOU report that that Professor Jim Gallagher of Oxford University is concerned about codifying parts of the UK constitution dealing with the relationship between Scotland, England, Wales and also Northern Ireland (“Devolution bill must be changed to strengthen control, says professor”, The Herald, September 8). He need not trouble himself in looking too far.
There is of course no UK constitution, but there is a Treaty of Union between the kingdoms of Scotland and England concluded in 1707. This sets out the relationship that was understood to be agreed at the time.
Normally if amendments to a treaty are required then it is for the contracting parties to agree matters between themselves. This would be therefore the kingdom of Scotland and England and it would require discussions between the appropriate representatives of each country.
What the good professor seems to be suggesting is some kind of imposition on Scotland of the wishes of Westminster, he says “a strong argument can be made for allowing Scotland …” looks like crumbs to the natives.
Branislav Sudjic,
Black & Guild Solicitors,
38 Hunter Street, Kirkcaldy.
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