Memories of Prestonpans

Gill knitting as the tumbrel rolls past sending so many to their doom last night. I'm still trying to work out the implications. There'll be a referendum on Europe now in two years' time so that should occupy a few minds.

As for Scotland, there could be strange times ahead for SNP MPs, finding themselves winners in their own country but devoid of friends in Westminster. A bit like Prestonpans all over again. As one SNP-supporter said on TV, "What now? We weren't planning for this."

 I'm sure many Scots nats woke up this morning thinking they'd won independence of a kind, and so they have. There'll be no stomach in Westminster for meddling in Scottish affairs. So why not hand over full fiscal autonomy and see how they get on? That would be the real test.

Trident and defence in general, however, is another matter. I suppose the nuclear subs could come south to Hartlepool or Barrow-in-Furness. Then there's that wall that Hadrian built. It could do with a bit of repair.

It seems odd that Nicola Sturgeon who did so much to bring about the SNP's success last night, will not be in Westminster. Mind you, she has Alex Salmond to look after things there. Who knows, he might get to like London.

In the meantime it's goodbye Ed, goodbye Nick and goodbye Nigel, except that's he's already contemplating a comeback. Well who else do they have?