SNP Minister defends Health Secretary’s attendance at Aberdeen matches
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In a recent development, SNP Minister Gillian Martin has come to the defense of Health Secretary Neil Gray, stating that he was carrying out his official duties while being driven in a ministerial car to attend Aberdeen football matches. Gray has faced criticism from opposition parties after it emerged that he had been chauffeured to watch Aberdeen games at Hampden, with VIP seats provided by the Scottish Football Association.
It was reported that Gray attended matches such as the semi-final of the League Cup and the final against Rangers last year, as well as the semi-final of the Scottish Cup against Celtic this year. Speaking on Good Morning Scotland, Martin explained that Gray’s use of the ministerial car was in line with his responsibilities for sport and government duties. She emphasised that Gray would only use the car for official visits and events.
When questioned about why the matches attended were all related to Aberdeen FC, the team Gray supports, Martin stated that it was a matter for Gray to address. She highlighted that as long as the matches were part of ministerial visits, they would align with the ministerial code. This clarification comes amidst Gray being appointed as Health Secretary earlier this year following his predecessor’s resignation over an expenses row.
This incident follows a previous controversy involving a Government iPad being used on holiday, resulting in a hefty roaming charge that was later repaid by the SNP politician. The Scottish Government has been approached for comment on this matter. Martin, who is currently at the Cop29 climate conference in Baku, Azerbaijan, noted that this was the first instance of concerns raised regarding the use of ministerial cars. She reiterated that ministerial car usage is strictly reserved for official business purposes.
In conclusion, the SNP Minister’s statements shed light on the rationale behind Health Secretary Neil Gray’s attendance at Aberdeen matches and his use of a ministerial car for such events. The clarity provided by Gillian Martin seeks to address any misinterpretations surrounding Gray’s actions and emphasises the importance of adhering to government protocol in such matters.