Scottish Health Secretary Defends Use of Ministerial Car

Health Secretary Neil Gray is facing scrutiny over his use of a ministerial car to attend football games, specifically watching his favorite team, Aberdeen. He was chauffeur-driven to three cup games at Hampden Park and a league match at Pittodrie, all classified as official ministerial engagements, which civil servants approved. Opposition parties, particularly the Scottish Conservatives, have criticized these trips as excessive and hypocritical, recalling a similar scandal involving Gray's predecessor, Michael Matheson. While an SNP spokesperson defended Gray's actions, insisting they align with his duties, critics demand transparency and accountability from the government. Gray is scheduled to address the Scottish Parliament on the matter, amid calls for clarity regarding the appropriateness of using public funds for such travel. The case raises questions about the ethical implications of ministerial perks and the accountability of public officials.