Hidden clues? Guardian’s cryptic crossword accused of anti-SNP conspiracy

The Guardian’s cryptic crossword has prompted lots of, er, cross words north of the border after an unfortunate juxtaposition in today’s puzzle.

But one innocent bystander’s fortunate juxtaposition is another baying mob’s conspiracy theory.

Incredible scenes. There’s a conspiracy theory about today’s Guardian cryptic crossword calling Nicola Sturgeon a racist. pic.twitter.com/1GnoBtkYFc

— Jamie Ross (@JamieRoss7) March 1, 2017

@WingsScotland seen this today… @guardian crossword compiler evidently thinks this is acceptable. pic.twitter.com/EvizUGztsR

— ItsaGoinWrang (@itsagoinwrang) March 1, 2017

So the racist crossword is real. Let’s be clear about this – the Guardian is pure British establishment. They are an attack dog for UK.

— Ysabelle Stewart (@YsabelleStewart) March 1, 2017

.@guardian Do you think today’s cryptic crossword appropriate? Was it not checked before release? I assume accidental … @NicolaSturgeon pic.twitter.com/vh3YKsOUUu

— Gavin Barrie (@jammach) March 1, 2017

The response from Twitter can be summed up with the following clue: Advice to busybody (3,1,4). Answer at the bottom of the post.

Here are some of our favourites.

Shocking discovery found in Guardian crossword puzzle. pic.twitter.com/NGpLIga4D3

— Paul Malik (@C_PMalik) March 1, 2017

Sadiq Khan rushes out statement denying he is the Guardian’s crossword compiler https://t.co/ODiG5XaTFi

— Murdo Fraser (@murdo_fraser) March 1, 2017

If Scots Nats really believe The Guardian crossword is conspiring against Nicola Sturgeon, they need to engage in some 9 Across. https://t.co/YMG50OOAWi

— (((StephenDaisley))) (@JournoStephen) March 1, 2017

Alan Turing would be thrilled to see all these people finding subliminal messages in today’s Guardian cryptic crossword.

— Eulenkoenig (@Sean_Jones93) March 1, 2017

Answer: Get a life