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People's choice deserves respect





Sir – With respect, I reject Jean Birkett’s claimed justification for calling into question Paul Monaghan’s suitability for his position as our MP (NT letters, July 31st).

Ms Birkett says that in May, people "voted for the party without any knowledge of the man" – not true!

Many voted SNP because they had got to know Paul Monaghan. He has made every effort to meet and work with his constituents and certainly became well-recognised here in the north west.

Paul Monaghan has proved his respect for voters of both the Yes and No variety but, surely Ms Birkett doesn’t expect him to abandon the principles and policies of his party to get on the right side of No voters?

It’s intriguing that so many people appear to be outraged that SNP members continue to work towards independence for Scotland.

As an SNP member, I would be disappointed if Paul Monaghan didn’t portray his party’s politics in his approach to and action on important projects. Of course he will work with other parties to achieve the best for the people of Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross – take a look at the cross-party involvement he has had since going to Westminster.

Respect works best when it is two-way. Paul Monaghan was voted into his position by the people of this part of the country and their choice deserves respect, as does our MP.

Refusal to accept this creates the very divisiveness Ms Birkett claims to fear.

Marie-Anne Hutchison

Westwood

3 Canisp Road

Lochinver.


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