Scotland has its problems but hunger should not be one of them.
This country is not short of cash, it has jobs, abundant natural resources, universal services and a welfare state.
The gap between rich and poor will always be there to a degree when it comes to cash in our pockets.
But it is a badge of national shame to be reminded how stark that gap is when it comes to everyday safety.
Crime and justice stats show how violent crime is falling across Scotland but remains unchanged in the poorest areas.
At a time of austerity, when so many other barriers keep being erected, the gap looks even worse.
Labour's John McDonnell brands poverty in Scotland 'a bloody disgrace' and pledges 50,000 jobs
The squeeze on public finance is clearly hurting more vulnerable sections of society. It is felt in policing, schools and community services.
And it is forcing more people to use food banks – a scandalous reality in a wealthy country.
Deprived communities are even losing access to their cash, as MPs have been hearing.
ATMs are disappearing or are having charges added to them.
It’s a trend that is squeezing people into the margins.
Anger over decision to allow DWP control of Scottish benefits until 2024
Brexit, of course, is just going to make this worse, as food bank providers warn.
Theresa May’s Government is virtually a case study in incompetence.
It’s time they put their minds to the problems ordinary people really face – not creating an even bigger mess.
