John Swinney justifies £45,000 business-class travel for World Cup delegation
First Minister John Swinney defended spending over £45,000 of public money on business-class flights for himself and two aides during the World Cup trip.
During the World Cup, First Minister John Swinney and two senior advisers travelled on business-class flights that cost more than £45,000 of taxpayer money. Swinney told one outlet Scotland that the government sought to minimise expenses despite the need for quicker bookings. Justice Secretary Neil Gray echoed the rationale, saying the arrangement allowed ministers to be fresh and ready for work abroad.
The Scottish Government’s overall spending on US travel for Swinney, Sports Minister Maree Todd and their teams amounted to £98,442, including flights, accommodation and related expenses. Economy Secretary Stephen Flynn also defended the travel, warning that lower-class seating would hinder effective engagement. Opposition MSP Stephen Kerr criticised the costs, suggesting officials should have covered them personally.
Why it matters
It highlights how public funds are used for senior officials' travel during high-profile events.
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