Be wary of organic claims

Sir, - Now that the grouse season is under way, much has been made of their addition to restaurant menus.

And why not. But a word of caution.

I am concerned that grouse are routinely fed grit which contains chemicals that rid them of parasitic worms. This powerful substance is given in unregulated and often high doses.

The Veterinary Medicines Directorate and the Food Standards Agency are now looking into this and until there are scientific assurances from their findings I would be cautious in calling this product organic until verified by one of the nine authorising bodies in the UK.

David Mitchell. 6 Henry Street, Kirriemuir.

addressed Scotland’s largest LGBTl festival, Glasgow Pride.

The First Minister told us it was a privilege and in this she is indeed correct.

Ms Sturgeon has previously told us she is fully committed to securing full equality for LGBTI people. Really? Surely this is the same Ms Sturgeon whose party and independence cause have taken a number of significant donations from Brian Souter of Stagecoach?

Sir Brian is wellknown for funding a campaign to keep the anti-gay Section 2a and is outspoken in his opposition to gay marriage stating society would implode if “traditional” marriage were to be challenged.

With Labour gaining ground on the SNP in the west central belt, we can understand why Ms Sturgeon chose not to dwell on the fact her party has in the past been bankrolled by Sir Brian.

Martin Redfern. Woodcroft Road, Edinburgh.