Commenting on Professor Eric Wilkinson’s claim that Scottish Education is “stuck in a mudpool”, Liberal Democrat Education spokesman Margaret Smith said:

“Councils must be encouraged to take an innovative approach. East Lothian Council are looking at fifty proposals to radically change education, including setting up trusts for schools. This is a welcome debate.

“We would certainly welcome greater flexibility in the role and powers available to headteachers who understand the needs of their school and their local community.”