Former Scottish health secretary Michael Matheson’s position as an MSP is not under threat, according to First Minister Humza Yousaf, who described Matheson as a “decent person.”
Matheson resigned from his Cabinet role in February following scrutiny over an almost £11,000 data roaming bill incurred on his parliamentary iPad during a family holiday to Morocco.
The Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body (SPCB) determined last week that Matheson had violated the code of conduct for members regarding his handling of the bill.
The case was referred to Holyrood’s Standards, Procedures, and Public Appointments Committee to consider potential sanctions.
Yousaf (Credits: Bloomberg)
Despite pressure, Yousaf opted not to dismiss Matheson from the health brief, even though it was revealed last year that parliamentary expenses were initially used to cover the bill, which Matheson later reimbursed personally.
During an appearance on the BBC’s Sunday Show, Yousaf acknowledged Matheson’s mistake but emphasized that decent individuals can err.
He stated that Matheson has paid the price for his actions by repaying the money and indicated his willingness to accept the consequences determined by the parliamentary committee. Opposition politicians have called for Matheson’s resignation as an MSP in response to the SPCB report.
Michael Matheson (Credits: The Guardian)
However, Yousaf does not believe this is necessary, affirming his confidence in Matheson’s character and willingness to accept accountability. Yousaf further explained his decision not to remove Matheson from the cabinet, citing his belief in due process.
Meanwhile, Scottish Tory deputy leader Meghan Gallacher argued that the Matheson controversy underscores the need for a recall bill, as there is currently no mechanism for voters to remove an underperforming or disgraced MSP between elections.
