Mason is the MSP for Glasgow Shettleston, where there is at least one branch of Barrhead Travel in the Forge Shopping Centre, as well as a member of the Scottish parliament's economy and jobs committee.

Scottish Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser said: “The only possible explanation for such a tweet is that he was joking.



"But the danger comes when an element of nationalist followers take the message seriously, and use it as an excuse to behave in an unacceptable way. With that in mind, perhaps Mr Mason could clarify that his remarks were made in jest.”

Scottish Labour's Glasgow MSP James Kelly said: "John Mason must have difficulty going about his daily business if he refuses to deal with those who raised concerns about independence.

"By his own logic he can't do his shopping in Asda or Morrisons. He can't fill up his car in a BP or Shell petrol station. He can't buy any DIY products from B&Q. He can't bank with RBS or Lloyds. He can't go the pictures at the Parkhead Forge in his constituency to watch anything to do with Harry Potter, Judi Dench, Emma Thomson, or a whole load of other entertainers.

"He can't enjoy the music of Rod Stewart, David Bowie, or Susan Boyle. He can't even eat a Tunnock's tea cake. It's barely worth John Mason getting out of bed in the morning."

