South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has commented on the SQA results published on Tuesday morning and reports of a technical failure which meant some Scottish pupils received blank emails rather than their results.

The local MSP said: “Young people across Dumfries and Galloway should have woken up on Tuesday morning to exciting news – instead they woke to a new level of SQA chaos.

“It is simply unacceptable that hundreds of young people have been forced to undergo real anxiety due to this SQA technical failure.

“The SQA have apologised but this is an incredibly stressful time for young people.”

Speaking generally about pupils receiving their results, Colin Smyth: “I would like to congratulate everyone who received their exam results this week, as well as all teachers who have worked so hard in very difficult circumstances the past few years.

“I hope those receiving their results feel like their hard work has paid off, but I know some will be disappointed.

“In these cases, it is important to remember that everyone’s journey is different and there is support out there for anyone who needs it.”