Some of you will recall that, a few months ago, I wrote about the British taxpayer subsidising the Scottish economy. Someone, whose credentials I cannot recall, accused me of misleading my readers. I had been beguiled (he suggested) by the right-wing pres

Some of you will recall that, a few months ago, I wrote about the British taxpayer subsidising the Scottish economy.

Someone, whose credentials I cannot recall, accused me of misleading my readers. I had been beguiled (he suggested) by the right-wing press and political point-scorers - either that or I was deliberately misleading you.

If anyone doubts my version, go to a newsagent and buy The Economist (dated December 2). On Page 38, under the headline of "Labour's Scottish problem" you will see:

"One reason for the new mood in England is growing awareness of the extent to which generous English subsidy has supported a bloated public sector that accounts for 55 per cent of Scottish GDP and provides comparatively well-off Scots with perks, such as free university tuition and free long-term care for the elderly, unavailable in England.