Two government ministers to travel to US for World Cup in ‘personal capacity’

John Swinney’s spokesman has defended the First Minister’s decision to allow two of his ministerial team to fly to America for the World Cup.

Economy, tourism and transport secretary Stephen Flynn and community care minister Alison Thewliss are both to travel to the US to support Scotland’s men’s team as they make their first appearance at the tournament since 1998.

Both Flynn and Thewliss are heading there in a personal capacity rather than to represent the Scottish Government.

Swinney will be at Scotland’s opening game against Haiti in Boston this weekend, while sport minister Maree Todd will watch on as Steve Clarke’s men take on Brazil in Miami on June 24.

Asked why two Government ministers were being permitted to take time off while Holyrood is sitting, a spokesman for the First Minister said it was a “big moment” for the country.

Both Flynn and Thewliss booked their trips before being elected as MSPs and subsequently joining the Scottish Government last month.

“These ministers are new in post, and they booked this before they took office,” the First Minister’s spokesman said.

“This is the first appearance at the World Cup for the men’s team for almost 30 years, it is a big moment for the country.

“The First Minister took the view that Ms Thewliss and Mr Flynn should be allowed to attend.”