The National:

WITH the launch of the new BBC Scotland channel almost upon us, the broadcaster's performance north of the Border is especially under the spotlight.

It will take a lot to win back the trust of the Scottish audience – especially after finally admitting it misled viewers on Scottish growth figures, and after the Question Time shambles in Motherwell.

So, we found it interesting that the BBC invited two surprising guests on to one of its debate shows.

BBC One show The Big Questions, which features ethical debates, is coming to Glsagow on Sunday.

The National understands that pro-independence figures Paul Kavanagh – National columnist and the Wee Ginger Dug's human – and Wings Over Scotland were both invited to appear on the show.

Kavanagh was not able to attend, but stressed that he would be available for future shows.

The date also conflicted with the schedule of Wings author Stuart Campbell.

He wrote on Twitter: "This was a weird week to be asked by Mentorn (producers if Question Time) to appear on a BBC debate show in Glasgow. But I just was.

"(I can't do it. But they've asked me to recommend a replacement.)"

Both The Big Questions and Question Time are produced by the same company, Mentorn – who will also be responsible for Debate Night, a Scottish version of the latter.

Two pro-independence guests being invited on to the same BBC show, though? After the criticism over the audience make-up of Question Time?

Perhaps even the BBC realises that it crossed the line in Motherwell, and is looking to improve? 

Time will tell ... but we'll keep our hopes modest.