The Queen’s Speech is one of the highlights of the UK political calendar.
It’s an event full of pomp and ceremony that even non-political types enjoy watching live on TV.
It is also one of those rare occasions where MPs get to show voters some of the good things about our parliamentary system – which has suffered a massive decline in public trust in recent years.
So it’s surprising the SNP has pencilled in an MP to take part in the proceedings who has questions to answer over his conduct.
Patrick Grady was found by Commons authorities to have sexually harassed a party staff member.
The Glasgow MP stood aside as SNP chief whip in the wake of the claims and the staffer notified Westminster’s independent complaints service.
It was recently reported the authority had upheld a complaint of sexual harassment and the matter has been referred to an independent panel.
It would seem obvious Grady should take a back seat in Parliament until the matter has been satisfactorily resolved.
By handing the MP a plum role in one of the grand occasions of state, the party leaves itself open to allegations that it has not taken the reports seriously.
It comes at a time when questions are being asked about the behaviour of MPs in general at the House of Commons.
There is a growing perception that some members view Westminster as an excuse for drinking and socialising at the taxpayers’ expense.
The SNP is quick to demand high standards from politicians in other parties.
It should be reconsidering whether Grady is an appropriate choice for such a grand occasion.
Traditionally kind
The Highlands of Scotland have a tradition of hospitality dating back centuries.
That reputation has only increased thanks to the efforts of big-hearted residents of Aberfeldy.
The community in Highland Perthshire has welcomed seven families from war-torn Ukraine and is expecting another four to arrive this week.
Our heartwarming pictures show the families enjoying meals with locals.
Aberfeldy and the neighbouring town of Pitlochry could provide homes to up to 90 Ukrainians in the coming weeks.
The appeal has been overseen by hotel owner Gavin Price – who also finds the time to manage League Two club Elgin.
He and his team of volunteers deserve huge credit for helping so many people in their time of need.
Their hard work is an inspiration and will hopefully encourage others to offer up their homes to those seeking shelter.
The old Gaelic saying ceud mìle fàilte – a hundred thousand welcomes – certainly applies to our new Ukrainian friends.
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