| | Dear Voornaam, A new week and a new political controversy is on the cards in Scotland. This time, it is the old issue of the minimum unit pricing of alcohol. Reports today indicate ministers are poised to hike the minimum unit price (MUP) of alcohol in Scotland by 30 per cent. A statement in Holyrood on Thursday is expected to confirm the MUP will increase from 50p to 65p from early May. Political Editor Alistair Grant has been on the story here It will undoubtedly prove highly controversial despite being aimed at tackling Scotland's appalling alcohol death toll. Elsewhere, Arts Correspondent Brian Ferguson has the incredible story of a Scottish win at the Grammy awards. Glaswegian Blair Ferguson, 20, also known as BLK beats, won for a song written in his aunt's attic. Asked about his plans for the future, Ferguson says: "More Grammys" An amazing talent, of which you are sure to be hearing a lot more. Meanwhile, have you recovered from the opening weekend of the Six Nations yet? In perhaps the most Scottish Scotland performance ever, Gregor Townsend's men very nearly sacrificed a 27 point lead over Wales. They hung on thankfully, and thoughts will now turn to this Saturday's clash with France. As Rugby Correspondent Graham Bean reports, Townsend wants to see improvements to his team's discipline and defence. Staying with sport, Neil Warnock has been unveiled as the new interim manager of Aberdeen as widely trailed. Warnock, 75, has been in charge of 15 different clubs over more than four decades of management and came out of retirement 12 months ago for a second stint at Huddersfield. His first game - away to Rangers tomorrow evening. Here's what he had to say It has been a busy start to the week in The Scotsman newsroom, just as we like it. As ever, do send your feedback on The Scotsman - and this email - to scotsman.editor@jpress.co.uk, your thoughts are always of help as we look to develop what we do. Have a wonderful evening Alan | |
