In relation to the recent spate of Douglas J. Cusine articles, I am troubled by this foray into the blatantly political for an article featured in Scottish Legal News. Quite clearly the lines can blur between political and legal, especially when it comes to our legislature. Nonetheless, this is the second article from Mr Cusine in recent days where he takes aim at the dealings of individuals of only one political persuasion.

The article is at best a comment on governance, but in reality it’s three pot shots at three SNP politicians. His previous article was certainly more legally grounded, but there is quite clearly a theme in where he directs his commentary. Today’s is even given second billing on ‘latest news’ despite the fact his troubles are hardly matters which are new. Mr Cusine is obviously entitled to his view regardless of his political persuasion, but it raises a concern for me about the journalistic balance of the Scottish Legal News. 

I think on the whole the SLN publication is a very worthwhile and respectable outlet. As a legal practitioner, I find it very useful for keeping up to date on recent case law and events. I also welcome comment, even if that does stray into the political, because some legal cases/incidents will clearly have political ramifications. I also welcome those even where they don’t agree with my own politics. I would simply encourage the publication to avoid becoming an outlet for any individual’s political bias. 

My own preference as a reader would be that the outlet avoids altogether that which is majority party political comment, but if it thinks it must delve into these points, that it does so with a balance of commentators. I know it has done so in the past. Again, my preference would be to avoid the party political comment altogether.

I have no desire to develop an echo chamber or to shut down legitimate commentary. I am simply a reader of a publication expressing a view that Mr Cusine’s commentary would be more appropriate in an alternative publication.

Alan Adam