The Royal Mile

[Brian K]

There have been mutterings recently from local politicians about trying to put a thumb in the tide of tartan tat on the high street. But without a much more serious effort to protect what remains of our centuries-old national reputation for high quality goods and services, I fear that the experience of so many visitors being met with such high profile evidence of utter rubbish wherever they look will soon destroy that longstanding and hard-earned economic trump card. If we had wise politicians capable of strategic thinking they would see that. But I can discern little evidence that any such understanding exists. Perhaps we get what we deserve.

Thanks for your perspective, Nick. As I read this thread, and the original thread dealing with Howie Nicholsby's proposed legislation, I thought of you because you have mentioned your concerns about such things to me before, if not in this depth and detail. It has to be tough to compete in business with people whose product is so inferior they can offer it at a price the uneducated feel they can't resist.

That being said, how do you envision tackling this problem? Is there a legislative or regulatory approach you think would be practical? Is EU involvement necessary or would Scottish and British legislation be sufficient? How much would you depend on education of the public and how could it be accomplished without coming across as snooty or snobby? There are those who see appeals to quality standards as an attempt to shut out anyone other than the upper crust.

As I read this I know it could come across the wrong way, but I don't mean to challenge or push you. Indeed I am genuinely interested in your answers to these questions because I know you must have thought about them. A man with your long experience in the business and your academic background must be in a unique position to understand all aspects of this problem. If my tone has not sounded as I intended, please know I am asking as a concerned friend.

Regards,

Brian