THE Holyrood debate on knife crime next week is important because of the range of people it brings together.

Young people, families of victims, medical staff who have to treat the wounds, politicians and police will all have the opportunity to have their say.

John Muir, the man whose petition inspired this debate, deserves great credit for the dignified way he has campaigned for tougher sentencing.

And the Parliament's Petitions' Committee, led by Shettleston MSP Frank McAveety, must also be praised for staging the debate in the Holyrood chamber.

Hopefully, the exchange of views may even suggest a way forward. Festival hits the perfect note

THE Celtic Connections festival is going from strength to strength and deserves its success.

The wide range of talent it attracts from all over the world justifies its reputation as a magnificent musical showcase.

With 300 events the choice is amazing and it can justifiably claim to offer something for everyone.

At a time of economic gloom, its importance to Glasgow cannot be underestimated thanks to the spending power of the tourists it brings to the city.

It is the perfect opening for the Government's Year of Homecoming.