The attacks on black academics are well-funded and relentless, writes DIANE ABBOTT, and they need to be fearlessly resisted by all concerned
The kids are alright, Nicola
Sturgeon's plans for testing primary school children are uniquely unpopular
Extreme hot weather resulting from environmental change needs to be tackled through greater firefighting investment instead of fewer jobs and less resources, writes COLIN BROWN
There are many intricate details about the new Saudi, Turkish and Pakistani alliance we do not yet know, suggests ROGER McKENZIE, but its impact could be considerable
Holyrood incompetence has cost jobs and put the future of Clydeside’s Ferguson Marine shipyard into jeopardy. Its future should have been assured, argues KENNY MACASKILL
Hot and dry conditions are threatening British species unequipped for drought, explains PAUL ASHTON
The Baltic state is set to reverse its constitutional prohibition on nuclear weapons and foreign bases as part of accelerated Nato war preparations, warns TOM UNTERRAINER
NICOLA STURGEON was accused of running out of ideas as she launched her Programme for Government this week. “Based on this programme, this government’s sell-by date is well passed,” Scottish Lib Dem leader Willie Rennie said.
Still, there’s at one idea she’s been offered on a plate that it seems she won’t touch with a bargepole. The Scottish government has instead doubled down in its defence of hugely unpopular tests for Primary 1 children.
The blueprint for standardised exams has managed to unite all opposition parties and teacher unions in the belief they will be completely useless. At First Minister’s Questions this week, Sturgeon refused to rule out pushing ahead with the tests even if MSPs vote against them.
It’s hard to believe this is the same politician who has made “listening” a key part of her rhetoric since taking office.
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