Reactions to Kate Forbes’ announcement that she will not stand again for Holyrood have been a little counter-intuitive. Political opponents were generous and their comments have extended well beyond the trite and obligatory.

Her senior colleagues, on the other hand, have been largely mute presumably on grounds that the hypocrisy would be too conspicuous. I will contribute to this apparent contradiction by expressing genuine regret that she is leaving Scottish politics, at least for the time being.

First though, I should say there is absolutely no reason to doubt the primary reason for her departure. Standing again means another five years as an absentee parent. I have filled that role and know that there is really no way round it. Politics, particularly with serious responsibilities, is not a family-friendly occupation.

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Dingwall, for practical purposes, is as distant from Edinburgh as from London. Ms Forbes is surely right to criticise the modesty of creche facilities at Holyrood but the reality is that attentive parenthood and seven, or even six, days a week of heavy political duties do not really mix. A choice has to be made and I respect her for making the one she has.

No matter who is taking such a decision, there are always other factors in play. If independence was round any foreseeable corner, would she stay? If the party dynamics were more congenial would it make a difference? These are all hypotheses which can be speculated upon but should not detract from straightforward........

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