Trumped up
Very substantial numbers opposed the project both on environmental grounds and from lack of confidence in its economic value to the region; and the pathetic kowtowing to Donald Trump by the local press and some (not all) members of the local council was a disgrace to Aberdeen and Scotland.
Derrick McClure
Rosehill Terrace
Aberdeen
The whole Trump affair has shown that Alex Salmond can claim a new title, Useful Idiot. This is not mere vulgar abuse. The term has particular resonance in political discourse.
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Hide AdA “useful idiot” is someone whose naivety, tendency to hero worship or gullibility can be exploited by a stronger, more devious personality to further his goals. Lenin is reported to have regarded the German Social Democrats as “useful idiots”.
Stalin held the same high opinion of George Bernard Shaw, HG Wells and the Webbs.
In calling in the legitimate planning authority’s refusal to permit Trump’s spoliation of a part of the north‑east coast, Salmond acted as Trump’s Useful Idiot.
John W Elliott
Gordon Avenue
Bishopton, Renfrewshire