Politics and the state of the economy continue to be a keen subject of debate on our Letters Pages, especially with the Scottish Budget just around the corner and the SNP still seeking a deal to get its proposals passed.

Earlier this week the First Minister urged his opponents to make sure they act in the interests of “the collective good”.

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That comment vexed one of our readers, who asks whether the Government is “prioritising political gamesmanship over genuine fiscal responsibility”.

Alastair Majury of Dunblane writes:

"The ongoing debate over the Scottish Government’s Budget highlights the fragile state of governance in Holyrood. As the SNP urges opposition parties to back its budget for 'the collective good', it is worth reflecting on whether this Government is prioritising political gamesmanship over genuine fiscal responsibility.

John Swinney’s warning of 'a lot of disruption' if the Budget is not passed raises legitimate concerns for public services. However, the SNP’s insistence on maintaining independence spending, even as critical services face potential cuts, is troubling. A government truly focused on 'the collective good' would prioritise the NHS, education, and local government over divisive and partisan goals.

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The situation calls to mind the wisdom of Cicero, who said: 'The budget should be balanced, the Treasury should be refilled, public debt should be reduced, the arrogance of officialdom should be tempered and controlled, and assistance to foreign lands should be curtailed lest Rome become bankrupt.' While the context may differ, the principle of fiscal responsibility is timeless.

Similarly, Benjamin Disraeli emphasised the importance of sound governance and the public's trust in government accountability. For the SNP to secure such trust, it must craft a Budget that unites Scotland, addresses its pressing challenges, and places public services above political aspirations."