Let’s try to keep the upcoming Scottish election friendly – Helen Martin

Previously, several people might have been open to persuasion and deciding at the last minute who to vote for. If something mysterious doesn’t suddenly blow up in politics, the only major relevant oppositions in May will be SNP (or independence in general) versus the Tories (representing the UK).

We might have more door-to-door calls from desperate campaigners. Otherwise even leaflet delivery volunteers might want to avoid the risk of fury from the householder telling them to get lost” and chucking the party paper back in their face.

I’m a weirdo, voting for Edinburgh’s Conservative councillors but SNP politicians, so I might (unusually) be quite sweet and polite. Perhaps it might even be a good idea for us to have a notice on the gate, window, or door saying who we’re backing, or declaring we’re rare undecideds so we welcome all.

It is going to be a crucial and very unusual election in Scotland, hopefully without unacceptable street battles, and I suspect with major coverage by BBC and ITV UK channels who normally regard it as a mere regional event.

It’s bound to begin early, but there are two “non-political” points. It’s important that we don’t fall out with friends and neighbours however they vote. And if we have a second wave lockdown, it could be cancelled!