KIRSTEN Oswald has called for politicians to be more careful with their language.

The SNP candidate’s plea comes amid growing concern over the treatment of MPs, with several deciding to withdraw from politics as a result of abuse they have suffered.

And while Ms Oswald insists she has never considered stepping away from public life, she does worry that “ordinary folk” are being put off politics by the rhetoric of some people.

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She told the Barrhead News: “Certainly it can be extremely difficult and the communications you receive or comments you get would be best left unwritten or unsaid.

“But, no, it hasn’t really crossed my mind not to do this.

“It is something that is always in your mind. It is a concern and I think we can all do better.

“One of the things that is important to me is how we all conduct ourselves as candidates in this election.

“We have a role and should never forget that we need to be responsible.

“Ultimately, people are accountable for their own actions but some of the language and conduct in Westminster really doesn’t help to bring people into politics.”

Particular concerns have been raised over the impact that abuse is having on women MPs.

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Ms Oswald said: “It actually puts people off from entering into politics, particularly women, and that’s a real shame.

“It would be better if we could attract more ordinary folk and that won’t happen if people are put off by the worry of threats or worse.

“It’s disappointing when it happens.”