Kenny Farquharson: Crumbs!

Iain Gray must be mad.

At this time of year, with Hogmanay in sight, is it really wise for the Scottish Labour leader to make disparaging comments about a great Scottish institution?

I refer, of course, the crumbliest flakiest biscuity treat in the world - Scottish shortbread.

Gray issued a press release this afternoon that berated First Minister Alex Salmond for various failings, personal and political, and summed up with these words:

"What is Alex Salmond's response to the economic crisis? I see his he is launching a commemorative shortbread tin tomorrow."

Now, that's just bad politics.

Does Gray not realise the esteem in which the glorious petticoat tail is held in this country?

Does he not appreciate how highly the Scots value the buttery delight of a good shortbread finger?

These are matters that transcend mere politics.

Gray was referring to an event in the First Ministerial diary for tomorrow when Salmond is launching the Walkers shortbread range to celebrate The Homecoming 2009 - the event designed to attract the diaspora and their dollars back to Scotland.

The First Minister has The Steamie's full support on this one.

What next, Iain, black bun??????