Government delays to information rights ‘draconian’
Changes to Scotland’s freedom of information law narrowly agreed by Holyrood for the coronavirus emergency have been condemned as “dismal” and “draconian” by campaigners.
Warning that coronavirus bill could weaken public scrutiny
The Scottish Government’s emergency Covid-19 bill could damage Scotland’s international reputation by relaxing freedom of information rights, the Scottish Information Commissioner has warned.
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.
Trophy hunting opponents ‘unsophisticated’, says shooting group
A sport shooting group has come under fire from politicians and campaigners after labelling people opposed to trophy hunting as “unsophisticated”.
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."
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.
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.
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".
Councils criticised for using common good funds for foreign flights
Critics say Common Good Funds should be used exclusively for community benefit as we reveal councils used cash to fund foreign flights.