Writing’s on wall for Mason’s gaffe

WHAT is it about politicians and the power of instant media?

For some, it’s a fantastic way of reacting to the people they represent and a great window for their personalities. Then there’s John Mason. In a strong field – remember, it includes Pete Wishart – SNP MSP Mason takes some beating when it comes to blundering.

His latest gift to political opponents is a rambling attempt to justify poor literacy standards among Scots school pupils. In his view, there’s no need to achieve high standards. What’s the point when Asda are looking for good attitudes or a career in IT beckons?

Turns out Nicola Sturgeon needn’t bother trying to defend poor results.

She could follow Mason’s example and simply shrug her shoulders.

In the real world, Sturgeon knows only too well that driving up standards for all pupils is the right thing to do. It’s unlikely the First Minister will feel the need to apologise on Mason’s behalf this time.

She has already said sorry to the families of terror victims after her Glasgow colleague suggested the IRA could be considered freedom fighters.

Mason also had to deny accusations of trivialising rape after suggesting girls don’t always “say yes” first time.

He apparently didn’t know the difference between deficit and debt and he wants creationism taught in schools because science can’t prove the world wasn’t made in six days.

This is the man who is deputy convener of Holyrood’s finance committee.

It says something when he has power over the country’s budget but shouldn’t be allowed to operate a smart phone unaccompanied.