Scottish secretary insists he will travel to London despite advice

Scottish Secretary Alister Jack has said he intends to travel to work in London at the House of Commons later this month – despite Scottish Government advice for people to work from home if possible.

First Minister Nicola Sturgeon has made clear her government’s advice applies to people who live in Scotland and work in England.

The House of Commons has made some arrangements for business to take place virtually, but these are expected to come to an end on May 20.

Speaking on the day some lockdown restrictions were lifted south of the border, leading to a rise in travellers on public transport, Mr Jack said he will be in London that day for the regular Scottish questions session at the House.

He said that is because he is a “key

“The Speaker requests for me to be able to answer questions to Scottish MPs. ALISTER JACK

worker”, and Commons Speaker Sir Lindsay Hoyle has requested ministers answer questions from the despatch box.

Mr Jack told BBC Radio Scotland’s Good Morning Scotland yesterday, he recognises the advice in Scotland is to stay at home, but added: “I am a key worker.

“The Speaker requests for me to be able to answer questions to Scottish MPs. The Speaker requires one of the ministers at least to be at the despatch box, so that is my responsibility.”

He said the UK Parliament has been “made Covid safe”.

When asked if his advice to others is to stay at home, Mr Jack said: “Yes, of course. That is the Scottish Government’s message and I agreed that in a conversation with the first minister last week.”

He said staying at home is “absolutely the message in Scotland”.