Humza Yousaf Establishes Company for Non-MSP Work

Former First Minister Humza Yousaf has established a company, H and N Yousaf Ltd, to receive payments for work outside his role as a Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP), mirroring actions taken by his predecessor, Nicola Sturgeon. Registered at his father's accountancy firm, the company offers business support services and has already received £2,400 for presentations delivered in Geneva. Critics, including Scottish Conservative finance spokesman Craig Hoy, have raised concerns that Yousaf's focus on private business ventures could distract him from addressing the needs of his constituents in Glasgow Pollok, particularly given his government's recent tax increases. The setup allows Yousaf to potentially benefit from lower taxation rates available to corporations, as opposed to the higher income tax rates imposed on ordinary Scots. While Yousaf's representatives assert that any income will be taxed appropriately, the concerns regarding tax avoidance remain prevalent in public discourse. This development comes amidst scrutiny of Sturgeon’s financial dealings, including payments made to her company for media appearances.