Trust is a major issue in politics. Whether it is Holyrood or Westminster, many Scots have turned their backs on the political process altogether.
The reasons for such disillusionment can be debated, but years of grinding Tory-imposed austerity, poor management of public services, and crippling inflation have all played a part. However, democracy dies in darkness, and shining a light on how decisions are made is in everyone's best interests.
Trust can only be won back if politicians and parties are upfront about their intentions and honest about their mistakes. Going on the defensive is the default setting of too many at Holyrood, as the last fortnight has shown since one of the most dramatic guilty pleas in recent Scottish history.
Murrell Scandal Cannot Be Brushed Aside
John Swinney is doggedly sticking to the line that Peter Murrell's scarcely believable 12-year spending spree is a private matter for the SNP. But the blunt fact is the SNP, like other major parties, receives millions in taxpayers' cash.
SNP donors might have borne the brunt of Murrell's thieving, but there remains a strong possibility he took party cash from other sources as well. That is just one of the unanswered questions hanging over the whole scandal.
Dennis Canavan spent 30 years working at both Westminster and Holyrood. Although not an SNP member, he is no arch-unionist, having campaigned doggedly for independence.
He is right when he says an independent inquiry, led by a KC with no political affiliation, would be in the party's best interest. The Murrell scandal cannot be brushed aside. Too many questions still need answering.
Vape Dangers Highlighted
The Daily Record has campaigned long and hard to highlight the dangers of vaping. It is clear that they pose a threat to the health of our young people.
They are often marketed with bright colours and sweet flavours that appear specifically designed to appeal to teens. The death of Dundee teenager Harry Whitton in Benidorm after inhaling vape oil is a tragic reminder of the danger they pose.
The 18-year-old's father Colin has bravely spoken out to warn young people that vapes are not harmless fun. We sincerely hope no other teenagers will follow in his tragic footsteps – and no other families have to go through the trauma of losing a much-loved child.
The Scottish and UK governments are already taking steps to crack down on the marketing of vapes to children. But parents also need to start having serious conversations with their teenagers about the risks of vaping.
