Angela Constance Apologises Over Grooming Gangs Row Amid Investigation
Angela Constance has acknowledged that the handling of the grooming gangs row could have been better. The controversy surrounds her remarks about Professor Alexis Jay, who is overseeing Scotland's grooming gangs review. Jay clarified that Constance's comments did not refer to inquiries taking place in Scotland but rather to the England and Wales Public Inquiry on Child Sexual Abuse.
The issue dates back to September when Constance opposed a Conservative amendment to a victims bill calling for an inquiry. It was later revealed through emails that Jay's clarification pertained solely to the England and Wales inquiry. This clarification was issued in meeting notes last month but was not made in the Holyrood Chamber, meaning it was absent from the official parliamentary record.
Following the controversy, independent advisers notified the First Minister John Swinney that they plan to investigate Constance for a potential breach of the ministerial code. The investigation aims to be concluded in a timely manner.
A no-confidence vote in Holyrood, called by opposition Conservatives and Labour who demanded Constance's resignation, was defeated, with the Greens supporting the SNP. Constance apologised to Professor Jay during a Holyrood education committee meeting. She maintained that all her actions were in good faith and expressed that she did not want dedicated professionals to be drawn into a political dispute. Constance voiced confidence in a fair and due process throughout the investigation.
