Question Time for ex-First Minister Jack McConnell at St Lourdes Secondary school

Jan 26 2012 By Joe McGuire

Jack McConnell meets pupils Lee McGowan (left) and Emma Armstrong at St Lourdes Secondary

LORD Jack McConnell faced his most challenging interview to date, as he was grilled by pupils from St Lourdes Secondary.

The former First Minister was quizzed by pupils on his time as Scotland’s leader and the challenges he faced, as well as topical subjects such as the independence referendum and the future of Scotland.

Lord McConnell said: “I would like to see two campaigns - both sides of the argument, a clear choice - preferably as soon as possible, then the people of Scotland can accept the result because it will have seen to be carried out fairly.”

He also said that the House of Lords will contribute to the independence debate as there are “prominent people in the House with strong views who will want to express them”.

Other than the probing political questions, the former First Minister was asked who his ideal dinner guests would be.

And his response had a particularly Scottish theme, with Robert Burns and Annie Lennox mentioned - as well as Nelson Mandela.

Lord McConnell said of Friday’s visit: “There were some tremendous stars in the room and I think the sixth years were a bit surprised by the quality of questions from the first years.”