John Swinney defends £45,000 business-class flights to World Cup
Scottish First Minister John Swinney is facing criticism for spending over £45,000 on business-class flights for himself and aides to attend a World Cup match in the US. While the government claims the costs were minimized and necessary for official trade talks, critics point to the high expense compared to economy-class travel used by other ministers.
Why it matters
The controversy highlights ongoing public scrutiny regarding the use of taxpayer funds for government travel and adherence to official spending guidelines.
Image source, PA Media Image caption, John Swinney visited Boston for Scotland's opening game in the World Cup
John Swinney has defended the use of more than £45,000 of public funds on business-class flights for him and two senior aides to the World Cup.
The first minister flew to Boston on 11 June for Scotland's opening match, before taking part in trade talks in Kentucky three days later.
While he and two senior officials travelled business class, Sports Minister Maree Todd and several other officials went to the US on significantly cheaper economy-class flights.
Swinney insisted the government had sought to "minimise" costs, while Justice Secretary Neil Gray defended the business class flights as a means of ensuring ministers "arrive fresh" when they travel overseas.
In total, the government spent £98,442 on trips for Swinney, Todd and their officials to the US, including flights, hotels and expenses.
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