I AM disappointed at the criticism of Sir Angus Grossart for his acceptance of the Pushkin Medal from President Putin of Russia, a country with which Scotland has had cultural ties for centuries ("Scots tycoon’s award from President Putin criticised as lacking transparency", The Herald, November 12). It is also reported this week that Prime Minister May is seeking to reset relationships with Russia. Will she also be attacked?

It should be noted that dozens of Westminster MPs have been happy to accept lavish hospitality and gifts from Saudi Arabia recently, a country under suspicion of the premeditated sate murder of a journalist and war crimes against Yemeni civilians. And many, many MPs have also been more than happy to receive payment of up to £1,000 per hour from Sputnik and Russia Today for appearing on their broadcasts. Hypocrisy doesn’t really cover the double standards at play here.

GR Weir,

17 Mill Street, Ochiltree.