I SUPPOSE I should be pleased that exposing Paul Nuttall as one of our laziest MEPs has prodded him into writing not once but twice in recent weeks, or that the UKIP minions no longer sign their letters with grandiose titles like ‘writer and broadcaster’.

But as their former paymaster, billionaire Aaron Banks has seemingly concluded in his attempt to join the Tory party.

UKIP is no longer of any importance except to themselves.

Unfortunately, seldom in history has the epithet ‘hapless’ been so easily applied at the same time to both our major parties as it is today.

As ever the Tories are hopelessly split over Europe, and Labour has seemingly gone Awol. The Chequers agreement will neither command a majority in parliament, nor is it acceptable to the EU, but both sides are desperate to avoid the cliff edge of a no deal.

It seems increasingly likely that May’s solution will be to kick the can further down the road and try for parliamentary approval based upon continued vagueness.

It is unlikely to succeed and meanwhile the clock counts down.

Real fact-based debate has only taken place since the referendum and the mood has changed.

Tory MP Justine Greening has suggested a three-options referendum to let the people decide what kind of agreement they want, no deal, Chequers, or remain inside allowing negotiated change.

It’s hard to see how even the most ardent leaver could argue against informed consent, I for one would accept the result.

It might even restore faith in politicians, which let’s face it, was what the first referendum was really about.

ALLAN RALSTON Callands