Got a response from a Scottish company. Says he can always use experienced people but it would have to be part-time and freelance and if that's 'not my bag' to let him know so we can end the conversation right there.

A couple of things. This is how I've always worked. If the pay is decent, it works out. I suspect that the pay isn't decent with that attitude.

Secondly, he's clearly a douche who doesn't know how a professional letter should look.