McConnell asks exams boss to go

Graham Houston will chair the SQA for the next four years

Scotland's former first minister has called on an SNP council chief to quit as the new chairman of the Scottish Qualifications Authority.

Stirling Council leader Graham Houston is due to take up the four-year post next month.

Jack McConnell said the move compromised the exam body's need to remain independent of party politics.

But Mr Houston dismissed the accusations, and told BBC Scotland he had no intention of stepping down.

Mr McConnell is now expected to raise the issue with his successor, Alex Salmond.