Scotland's First Minister cleared of misleading parliament over pension claim

The First Minister of Scotland, John Swinney, received confirmation from independent advisers that no investigation is required regarding allegations he breached the ministerial code by misleading Holyrood. The controversy stemmed from Swinney's claim that Scotland would "lose our pensions" following changes to the UK triple lock, a statement he later clarified would cost roughly £2,000 in real terms. Requests for a probe, including letters from MSPs, centered on that single remark rather than the full exchange.

Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay had labeled the comment as misinformation and urged an inquiry, but Swinney wrote to him stating the advisers found no breach and the issue is settled. The backdrop includes the UK Prime Minister's proposal to reform the triple lock, which affects Scottish pension funding through Barnett consequentials.