Scottish Secretary Ian Murray Skips Whitehall Event to Support Striking Workers

Ian Murray's absence from a key business reception was a show of solidarity with striking security staff, sparking criticism from attendees.

Ian Murray, the Scottish Secretary, chose not to attend a scheduled event at the Scotland Office in Whitehall to avoid undermining striking security guards.
The event, organized by the Confederation of British Industry, was intended to be a significant networking opportunity for Scottish business leaders.
Murray's decision was reportedly made out of respect for the Public and Commercial Services union strike, although no active picket line was present.
His absence was criticized by attendees who viewed it as a missed opportunity to engage with political representatives on business priorities.
The strike by security staff is part of a broader two-week action affecting several government departments, with other ministers also avoiding crossing picket lines.