Coronavirus diary, Saturday 25 July

Coronavirus is having a devastating effect on people and countries throughout the world.

It may be defeated in a year or two but its effect on nations and their governments could be fundamental.

This applies to the UK where it has already strengthened Scotland's determination to break away and become independent.

The United Kingdom was formed 313 years ago when the Acts of Union were passed by the English and Scottish parliaments, ratifying the 1706 Treaty of Union.

That was then: the no campaign celebrates, September 2014

The union has become increasingly strained in recent years,  leading to the Scottish independence referendum in 2014, with 55% against breaking away, 44% in favour. 

Now, coronavirus, notably the Boris Johnson's handling of the crisis, has acted as a spur to Scottish hopes, expectations, of that long awaited freedom.

If that were to happen, might the other two nations want to follow the same path? 

That seems unlikely for economic reasons and because their flame of nationalism burns less brightly.

Uncanny and canny: Johnson and Sturgeon

The threat of a break is real and urgent enough for Mr Johnson to travel to Scotland this week to talk to Nicola Sturgeon, the unassailable, canny leader of the Scottish National Party. 

With Scottish parliament elections looming next May and the possibility of further strengthening of Sturgeon's position, Mr Johnson may find it impossible to stop another referendum.
During his visit he said there would be no referendum.

He spoke of the 'incredible strength' of the union and the benefits it brought Scotland - £4.6 billion to fight coronavirus and the latest support, £59 million over ten years for Orkney, Shetland and the Western Isles.

His view is not shared by Mrs Sturgeon and, according to the latest polls, more than half the Scottish people. 

Mrs Sturgeon aid she welcomed the prime minister's visit as it emphasised the key factor in the move to independence - 'the ability to take our own decisions and taking us down a path we haven't chosen'.

By Peter Schrank, The Times

If he is to save the day for England and the union he will have to prove a much bolder, better leader than he has done since his election victory.

His position has been  made even more difficult by the increasing possibility of his failure to make a Brexit deal with Europe. 

Mr Johnson must be a worried man.