Scotland has good reason to believe that the judiciary not only does an excellent job but also commands respect from the public.

Unlike other countries, there is no evidence that judges and sheriffs are in the pocket of political parties or organised crime groups.

However, even taking into account the high esteem in which the judiciary is held, this key group of public servants must also be open and transparent.

Nearly all senior public sector figures must declare their outside financial interests.

Sizeable shareholdings, directorships and heritable property must be registered and available for public scrutiny.

Judicial officer holders, however, are not required to make such a declaration. A register showing the number of recusals - where judges have abstained in cases - is available, but no list of interests.

In 2012, transparency campaigners tried to plug this loophole and their petition to Holyrood remains live after nearly six years.

Successive Lord Presidents have opposed the proposal and resisted it all the way. A resolution to the petition, one way or another, should be reached this month.

MSPs across the political divide are open to the plan, but the Government is unenthusiastic and has backed the judges.

This is not a great position for a progressive Government to take. In Norway, a country much loved by the SNP, judges are required to declare their financial interests.

Our judicial office holders should be given a chance to introduce a Norway-style scheme. If they fail, MSPs should legislate. Transparency is easy ... if you try.