Nicol Stephen, the former Chair of the SQA Ministerial Review Group, has called on Councillor Houston to resign his new post as Chair of the Scottish Qualifications Authority.

Graham Houston, an SNP Councillor who leads Stirling Council was announced as the new Chair of the SQA earlier this week, prompting allegations of SNP cronyism.

Commenting as calls for Councillor Houston’s resignation intensify, Mr Stephen said:

“Many people involved in Scottish education are genuinely shocked at this announcement.

“The SNP bleated about cronyism in the opposition, yet this is one of the worst examples ever seen.

“Appointing an active, elected SNP politician as chairman of the SQA will compromise its independence.

“I hope that in the interests of the good reputation of Scottish education Councillor Houston will agree to stand down.”