Health Minister Neil Gray is under fire after attending the glitzy premiere of The Outrun at the Edinburgh International Film Festival using a taxpayer-funded ministerial limo. Critics, including the Scottish Tories, have accused him of using public funds for a “jolly” as they challenge the justification provided by Deputy First Minister John Swinney.
Mr Swinney defended his colleague, stating that the film — which explores themes of addiction and recovery — was relevant to Mr Gray’s health portfolio and constituted “government business.” However, the presence of Culture Secretary Angus Robertson at the event has raised questions about why Mr Gray also needed to attend, especially after records showed he discussed “culture” and not health-related matters at the reception.
Mr Gray’s attendance comes amid ongoing scrutiny of his conduct, including criticism over the use of ministerial transport for eight football matches, four of which involved his favourite team, Aberdeen. Earlier this month, he apologised to parliament, admitting his actions “gave the impression of being more of a fan and less of a minister.”
The Scottish Conservatives have labelled Mr Swinney’s defence “desperate,” accusing the SNP of misusing taxpayers’ money. Deputy leader Rachael Hamilton stated that the public is “sick and tired of the SNP taking them for a ride.” Meanwhile, the government has declined to confirm whether Mr Gray’s limo was used to pick up his wife before attending the premiere.
The film itself, based on Amy Liptrot’s memoir about recovering from alcoholism, was described by Mr Gray as a project he had been eager to watch since December last year, before he held the health brief. The controversy adds further pressure on Mr Gray, whose behaviour as a minister continues to spark debate.
Source: Dailymail
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