Loyalty to cast offs

Sir, I seem to find it impossible to dispose of clothes that are well past their best. I have a bizarre affection for a favourite shirt even though the collar is worn.

It seems that Nicola Sturgeon may have the same affliction.

Why else would she bring back former education secretary Mike Russell to be Scottish minister for Brexit? Was he not one of the ministerial casualties when she became first minister?

The education system slid way down the world rankings under his leadership.

Given that the three UK ministers in charge of Brexit are fairly controversial mavericks who are already falling out amongst themselves, you would think that Nicola would have wanted to put a subtle grown-up in the room.

It needs someone with diplomatic skills, finesse and interminable patience to deal with Fox, Johnson and Davis.

This looks very like the first minister pursuing the old grievance strategy. Mr Russell is there to pick fights.

It’s also a massive slap in the face for her cabinet secretary for culture, Europe and external affairs, Fiona Hyslop that Russell is being sent into this arena.

Could it be that Nicola is ensuring disagreement to advance her case for independence?

Or as I am with clothes, is she just being loyal to a former cast off?

Finlay Craig, Cove.