[0762]

You used the words a "genuine oversight" and that is exactly what it was Ritchie! She actually pilloried herself and it was a genuine hardline criticism which was deserved as she "dropped her guard" while being knowingly aware that there are people around who don't like her for political or personal reasons because her ratings are "sky-high" in Scotland! May I add that somebody taking such a photo at a sombre event such as a wake is mindboggling, indeed irreverent, and if I was a close family member, my response to this individual/faux pas, if I caught the culprit, would be an extremely challenging one. I have previously walked into my local newsagent unknowingly not wearing a mask. My personal Scottish Saltire mask, with "Aye" sewn in red in the middle of it, was still in my pocket. I've inadvertently done this on a few occasions and particularly when I was "in a rush". I should likewise be pilloried for the same offence especially when there are signs on the front door laying out the FACTS rules set out by the Scottish govt and highlighted by the FM. I am obviously a human being and Nicola Sturgeon is likewise as human as any of us but with a higher reputable status and position in Scottish society and govt. Also I don't think anyone can say that they've not had a "slip-up" when it comes to mask wearing. What actually happened was she wore her mask as per the rules laid out by the Scot govt, was finally leaving the post cremation wake of her long-time friend and colleague with mask removed, and was suddenly asked to return briefly to speak to elderly family members thereby entering the Stable Bar without her mask (prob likewise located in her pocket) but still applying generous social distancing from about 3-4 metres. SHE HAS TO BE MORE CAREFUL BUT THE ERROR IS TOTALLY UNDERSTANDABLE FROM MY VIEWPOINT - DONE IT BUT NOT DELIBERATELY!! She is constantly under scrutiny and not everyone will be her supporter. Note the likes of Trump and Johnson have been very casual about mask wearing for long enough - heaps of abuse of the rules and both ironically infected!!