'Nicola Sturgeon is an astute and gifted politician whether you like her or not'

15 February 2023 , 23:08

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As Nicola Sturgeon resigns at Scottish First Minister, her qualities and calmness she brought to the role are to be admired (Image: POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Nicola Sturgeon is one of the most astute and gifted politicians of her time.

You did not have to agree with her views to admire her calm leadership and commitment to social justice. The timing of her departure is also a testament to her canny judgement.

Scotland’s First Minister claimed she is resigning because she can no longer give the job everything it demands.

But it follows a series of unforced errors such as the row over trans rights and comes at a time when her party is facing a police probe into potential fundraising fraud.

It is unlikely to be a coincidence that support for independence, the key objective of the SNP, has also dipped in recent months.

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Nicola Sturgeon waved goodbye on Wednesday after announcing her resignation (Katielee Arrowsmith SWNS)

While this paper understands why many Scots resent being run by a Tory-controlled Westminster, it is our view that Scotland is stronger remaining in the UK – and the UK is stronger with Scotland remaining in it.

In her pursuit of independence, Ms Sturgeon has neglected Scotland’s schools and hospitals and created unnecessary divisions.

People would be better served by Labour being in power north and south of the border.

Fix our schools

In his New Year speech Rishi Sunak claimed he went into politics to give every child the best possible education.

If he is true to his word he would be insisting the money is found to rebuild or refurbish England’s crumbling schools.

According to the spending watchdog the schools repair bill has risen to £11.4billion under this Tory government.

F for 'fix our schools': Education Secretary Gillian Keegan should prioritise crumbling school buildings (PA)

The major teaching unions warn that pupils are being taught in buildings full of asbestos and at risk of collapse.

No pupil should be taught in such dangerous environments.

We need to ensure they can learn in buildings which are fit for purpose.

Raq of ages

Raquel Welch rose to fame in One Million Years BC and never looked back.

Richard 'shuts up' GMB guest who says Hancock 'deserved' being called 'd***head'

She always was a star for all the ages.

Voice of the Mirror