THE Union Connectivity Review (UCR) was always a grandiose title for what should, in reality, have been common sense. It was over-hyped by Boris Johnson with his bluster about a financially unaffordable bridge to Northern Ireland.

But simple and incremental upgrades exist across the entire UK that would enhance travel. That’s especially the case in East Lothian, where the A1 and East Coast Main Line (ECML) pass through. However, as has become a trait with the Prime Minister, he over-promised and under-delivered.

What has come out of the UCR, and particularly with regard to the A1 and ECML, has been underwhelming to say the least. Improvements on both are mentioned. Yet that’s hardly revelatory or rocket science.

Even a short journey into the Scottish Borders, never mind crossing the Border, shows the need for an urgent upgrade. Similarly, increased train options, both local and express, are badly needed.

Sadly, the UCR simply called on the UK and Scottish Governments to work together. But for what and how? Action is needed, which requires investment, and so far there’s a logjam between Edinburgh and London. It’s not a constitutional issue as such. Northumberland has been badly treated. Recently announced improvements still remain far from adequate.

Westminster was, meanwhile, preoccupied by the Prime Minister’s actions, which have been shameful. His jaiket’s on a shoogly peg. But his removal, whilst justified and necessary, will simply see him replaced by another member of what has become a kleptocracy of a government.

I recall how my parents had loathed Ted Heath given his actions against the miners in the 1970s. But they came to view him as an old buffer who stood up to Thatcher. By the time of Cameron, even Thatcher seemed benign. Now under Johnson, Theresa May would almost be welcomed back as a respite. Johnson must go but it will be ever thus until Scotland can control and decide its own destiny.