Story perspectives

Scottish Government Criticized for Withholding Inquiry Documents

3/28/2026

Summary

Story summary

The Scottish Government faced criticism for withholding Nicola Sturgeon-Alex Salmond Inquiry documents until after the Holyrood Election.
The Scottish Information Commissioner called the handling 'preposterous'.
Parliamentary Business Minister Graeme Dey defended the SNP's freedom of information record.
Legal action could loom if the documents remain unpublished.
Former Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross condemned the SNP as public opinion turns negative.

History

Historical Context

The Freedom of Information (Scotland) Act 2002, enacted by the Scottish Parliament, aimed to enhance governmental transparency. It established the Scottish Information Commissioner, who oversees information requests, processing around 1,000 annually. Criticism of the Scottish Government's withholding of inquiry documents reflects ongoing tensions between transparency advocates and political entities, particularly the SNP, highlighting persistent challenges in achieving accountability in Scottish governance.

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Story summary

The Scottish Government faced criticism for withholding Nicola Sturgeon-Alex Salmond Inquiry documents until after the Holyrood Election.
The Scottish Information Commissioner called the handling 'preposterous'.
Parliamentary Business Minister Graeme Dey defended the SNP's freedom of information record.
Legal action could loom if the documents remain unpublished.
Former Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross condemned the SNP as public opinion turns negative.

1 / 2