I need a bit more detail

On reflection I should probably ignore the 845 Facebook-liked entity that is Wir Shetland but Duncan Simpson, its newly elected membership secretary, has admitted to some policy – but in turn he has omitted quite a lot [‘Chance for a fairer society’, SN 20/10/15].

Duncan, I need you to clarify two things. 

Firstly, the SIC would be the start of the new government (your own words) and would be in receipt of new powers – at least that is what I think you said.

Secondly, would you clarify who would set our income tax levels, national insurance payments and state benefits. These items equate to our funding of the present National Health Service, state pension payments and state benefits which, not only, include unemployment benefit but, such important items as attendance allowance.

Would Duncan be in a position to inform us how his “new government” might address these subjects? Is there a new tax-raising regime that is ready to be launched in Shetland. Let’s face it the SIC past and present have not exactly been good custodians of Shetland’s finances but you are prepared for them to inherit the powers of your new government.

I need a bit more detail.

Alan Macdonald

Fairview, North Roe