Written Question · S5W-20914 · Session 5
What its position is on updating its procedures to ensure that all meetings between the First Minister and (a) individuals, (b) groups, (c)…
The question
To ask the Scottish Government what its position is on updating its procedures to ensure that all meetings between the First Minister and (a) individuals, (b) groups, (c) businesses or their representatives and (d) other third parties at the First Minister's private residence are published in the ministerial diaries.
The answer
The Scottish Government does not record any meetings that the First Minister undertakes at her private residence in a non-ministerial capacity. Details of meetings held by the First Minister in her capacity as First Minister can be found at https://www.gov.scot/publications/
Notes of personal meetings at a Minister’s private residence are not recorded by their Private Office. It is the responsibility of each Minister to decide whether and what action is needed after such meetings or phone calls, to avoid conflict or the perception of a conflict of interests.
The proactive publication of Ministerial diaries concerns all meetings and engagements undertaken in a Ministerial capacity but does not cover personal meetings at private residences, unless the Minister deems the details of these meetings are to be published for public interests.
As is the case with all procedures, Scottish Government procedures in relation to the recording of meetings are updated as and when required.
Notes of personal meetings at a Minister’s private residence are not recorded by their Private Office. It is the responsibility of each Minister to decide whether and what action is needed after such meetings or phone calls, to avoid conflict or the perception of a conflict of interests.
The proactive publication of Ministerial diaries concerns all meetings and engagements undertaken in a Ministerial capacity but does not cover personal meetings at private residences, unless the Minister deems the details of these meetings are to be published for public interests.
As is the case with all procedures, Scottish Government procedures in relation to the recording of meetings are updated as and when required.
In the Official Report
No contribution in the Official Report cites S5W-20914 by reference.