That language, even if it did not betray an ignorance of the fact that Scots are British, is unacceptable.
Jeremy
I was being consoled today at lunch over my vanishing European identity, and also in a passing street conversation with a plumber's merchant I have known for a long time (he's a rock 'n' roll fan too; see how it makes friends and unites people across the world?). They do not seem to observe this as another manifestation of perfidious Albion at play, but far more as a cunning, long-term American ploy to reduce the three global superpowers - the US, China and Europe - to two, via the gradual dismantling of Europe; if anything, they view Brexit with incomprehension, and see Britain embrace a position tantamount to industrial suicide for itself; they wish us well and extend their sympathy. Funny how Russia sees Europe from exactly that same, long-term perspective; divide and conquer.
It's an example of where the cunning powers think years ahead, whereas the dumb ones can't see beyond the next election.
Regarding the Scots as Brits: I don't think I know or knew any Scot who felt that way. Indeed, they are all aware of the
legality of the situation, but at gut level, no way do they tend to feel British. It's a concept too removed from the quotidian experience, both culturally, economically as politically.
Some like to quote the result of the last Scottish Independence referendum as some form of proof of Britishness: I'm sorry, it was proof of fiscal understanding, and nothing more.
In fact, it's the apparent inability of the English to understand that the rest of Britain is not England that rankles, and drives nations apart. It's ironic that England understands that sentiment very clearly where it applies to itself, hence voting to quit Europe, but is blind to the fact re. Scottish sentiments. Which, I think, shows that Scotland is able to feel its own sense of nationality, but also appreciate and understand the value of being part of a far greater whole, i.e. Europe.
Regarding John's actual comment: I would distance myself from saying screw the English en masse, simply because in the final analysis, only three percent of them made the critical part of the call to go. That leaves forty-eight percent as pretty clear-sighted and certainly sane.
As for the US/UK trade dream, dream on. Since when did the supplicant call the shots?
Rob
