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Former SNP Health Secretary Faces Calls to Resign from Holyrood Over Expense Scandal

Michael Matheson is under pressure to step down after a parliamentary inquiry found he wrongly claimed £11,000 in expenses for personal use.

  • Michael Matheson, former SNP health secretary, faces demands to resign as MSP after a Scottish Parliament inquiry found he breached conduct codes by claiming an £11,000 iPad data roaming bill.
  • The inquiry upheld three complaints against Matheson, who initially claimed the expenses were for parliamentary work, but later admitted they were incurred by his sons watching football.
  • Matheson resigned as health secretary in February, but opposition parties are now calling for his resignation from Holyrood and for him to return nearly £13,000 in severance pay.
  • The controversy raises questions for First Minister Humza Yousaf, who defended Matheson's claims before the truth was revealed, potentially impacting the SNP's political standing.
  • Holyrood's Standards Committee is considering sanctions against Matheson, including suspension and withdrawal of privileges, with a full report to be published after their decision.
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