First Minister John Swinney defends Neil Grey at FMQ

By Andrew Dawes via Unsplash

By Brandon McLean

In today’s First Ministers Questions Neil Grey was criticised by leader of the Scottish Conservative Party, Russell Findlay.  
 
Findlay confronted First Minister John Swinney regarding his tolerance of Grey’s use of transport to attend football matches, suggesting he was prioritising personal pleasures over his work.  
 
Findlay said: “SNP have substituted One shamed health and social care secretary for someone even less serious. 
 
“What is it with SNP ministers taking taxpayers for a ride?” 
 
Swinney quickly came to the defence of Grey believing that no wrongdoing took place. He further disputed the narrative that he prioritised football and personal pleasures over his work, showing that of the 347 engagements he has undertaken since becoming health secretary in February, just five were sporting related. 
 
Swinney said: “It’s always been the case that ministers will attend sporting, cultural, societal and community events around the country.  
 
“I expect that. 
 
“Ministers will continue to engage on issues of importance.” 
 
Scottish Labour MSP, Neil Bibby acknowledged that all ministers have attended sporting events, but the question is “whether the correct protocols were followed”. 
 
Grey has since apologised for using a chauffer to attend three games at Hampden and to attend five Scotland matches. He acknowledged that at the time he acted more as a fan than a minister. However he said all occasions were official business, but he would reflect on whether it was appropriate to give family and friends “lifts” with him to these places in future. 
 
The Liberal Democrats MSP, Liam McArthur said that the existence of the apology was recognition that the situation “does not look good”.