You say that like Labour personalities haven't routinely given speeches in front of massive union flags for years before this particular bout of flag-shaggery

It's clear that we're not going to agree. The last thing I'll say is that the idea that the only people in the public sphere who have an obligation to have and debate ideas is politicians just seems mad to me. It's no wonder we're all so negative and cynical

Of course criticism is important.
But we've no shortage of people in this country who are happy to criticise ideas. We've a chronic shortage of people willing to put forward other ideas or constructive suggestions. Especially those with platforms

And the point i made is that this sort of unconstructive, hand-wringing negativity will achieve nothing at all. Easy enough to sit on social media and make snide remarks about the people who have actually come up with proposals, whatever you might think of them.

Of course you can. If neil thinks it's a bad plan, he suggests a better one.

But in any case, you've absolutely no basis for saying that this was JS' big vision for HR26. We're still 10 months out - if anything, this was likely an opening move.

Somehow, I have a feeling this discussion isn't going to go anywhere. Have yourself a good night.

Little interest in Indy. Aye, that'll be why he joined the SNP in 1979, for a 'comfy' devolution job 20 years before devolution existed.

The Scottish Government has no legal right to take a case to the International Court of Justice unless I'm much mistaken, and in any case would have few ways of enforcing a positive ruling against Westminster even if it did!

I never said he should 'direct' politicians, but if not journalists, then who do you suggest should compare ideas and foster debate in public forums?

The evidence is Catalonia, and other such places, that would be independent by now if it were a simple matter of appealing to international law