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Nicola Sturgeon dodges scrutiny, again

(Photo by Peter Summers/Getty Images)

If there was ever an immutable truth in Scottish politics, it is that Nicola Sturgeon never misses an opportunity to talk about the joys of independence. So it’s curious, then, that after being presented with the perfect chance to do exactly that, the Dear Leader has suddenly pulled out. What could have changed her mind?

To mark the 25th anniversary of devolution next week, Sturgeon was due to give evidence to the Scottish Affairs Committee in Westminster. But the former First Minister has now cancelled the session, following the arrest of her husband Peter Murrell four days ago. In typical Sturgeon style, she kept the public in the dark about the decision, with Douglas Ross, the Scottish Conservatives’ leader, being the first to reveal that Sturgeon had cancelled ‘late last week.’ He told the Committee yesterday afternoon that Sturgeon had changed her plans and would no longer be attending the evidence session next Monday. 

Diehard nationalist Pete Wishart was quick to spring to Sturgeon’s defence and chastise the Scottish Tory for his revelation.

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Steerpike

Steerpike is The Spectator's gossip columnist, serving up the latest tittle tattle from Westminster and beyond. Email tips to steerpike@spectator.co.uk or message @MrSteerpike

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