Environment
Environmental inspections in Scotland down by a quarter
The number of annual inspections of sites regulated by the Scottish Environment Protection Agency fell by a quarter over the last five years, prompting concerns about pollution.
Jamie Mann, Rob Edwards
Environment, Politics
Trophy hunting opponents ‘unsophisticated’, says shooting group
Crime and justice
Police Scotland taser use up sixfold in four years
The number of times tasers were deployed by Police Scotland has risen sharply, with senior officers pledging to make sure they are "available in all our communities all of the time."
Housing and homelessness, Finance
House builders demand more Help to Buy subsidies from government
Lobbyists acting for the housing industry have demanded continued Help to Buy subsidies from the Scottish Government, despite criticism that the cash simply inflates house prices.
Environment
Polluting Perthshire chicken factory plaguing residents with bad smells
A chicken slaughterhouse in Coupar Angus owned by one of Scotland’s largest food processors has continually breached environmental regulations while plaguing locals with “gut wrenching” odours.
Finance, Politics
Scottish councils slammed for spending ‘common good’ funds on booze
Two Scottish local authorities who spent over £42,000 of funds meant for the “common good” on boozy receptions have been accused of delivering a "kick in the teeth for hard working families".