‘Crass and in bad taste’ – the SNP’s covid cover-up
THE SNP has rejected calls to drop a ‘crass’ range of branded face masks.
The party has faced heavy criticism for trying to cash in on the coronavirus pandemic by launching the range, which includes a Saltire covering with the slogan ‘Scottish N Proud’ and another covered in the SNP’s logo.
It also rejected calls to commit to donating any proceeds towards fighting the impact of coronavirus.
Eight face coverings are being sold on the party’s official website for £8 and three ‘headwear’ garments at £14. Scottish Conservative deputy leader Annie Wells said: ‘The decision by the SNP to try to make money from a global pandemic is inexcusable.
‘Nicola Sturgeon must act to ensure this stops. Any money made from this tasteless venture should be donated to causes fighting coronavirus.’
Labour MSP Neil Findlay said: ‘These masks are crass and in bad taste.’
But an SNP spokesman said: ‘Just like football clubs and many others, we’ve launched our own face coverings. We would encourage everyone to help suppress the virus by following the guidance on face coverings.’
The masks were criticised by social media users. Glasgow Labour councillor Malcolm Cunning said: ‘The folks at the SNP would put a logo on their granny’s coffin if they thought it would gain them a vote.’
Meghan Gallacher, a Conservative councillor in North Lanarkshire, said: ‘This is politicisation of the pandemic.’
Paul Sinclair, a former senior Scottish Labour adviser, said: ‘To see a global pandemic as a chance to make a quick buck for party funds is vile.’