In your reflections on the independence referendum and contemplation of the next one I was surprised no mention was made of the demographics of last year’s vote. Ashcroft’s September 18-19 poll, correctly predicting the result, had Yes ahead in all but one of the age groups under 55 – and a significant proportion of the No vote coming from those aged 65 or over.
One of the SNP’s “triggers” may come to pass (Sturgeon – ‘SNP manifesto will set out triggers for second referendum', News, September 13). However, it is questionable whether any single event would sway a large number of No voters. It seems more likely we will have to wait for a much more gradual increase in support for independence as younger voters replace older ones on the electoral roll. The task for the SNP will be to retain Yes voters’ passion for the cause in the meantime.
Callum Mitchell
Largs
Ian Small, defending the BBC in Scotland, missed one valid and valuable point (Speaking up for BBC Scotland, Letters, September 13). In his justifiable claim of the most comprehensive referendum coverage he has forgotten the essential qualification: “and biased”.
The prejudice against the Yes campaign was scandalous, a denial of journalistic standards and a blatant interference in the democratic process. I for one have completely ceased watching or listening to BBC Scotland because it has demonstrated beyond question that its thurlement to the Union far outweighs its responsibility to present fair, unbiased news and political comment. It certainly doesn’t lack, as he says, pride; its creativity is a matter of personal taste and judgement; but what is clearly in short supply is integrity.
Les Hunter
Lanark
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