Investigation Launched into Angela Constance over Remarks about Grooming Gangs Expert Prof Alexis Jay
Angela Constance is under investigation for a potential breach of the ministerial code regarding her comments about grooming gangs expert Professor Alexis Jay.
The inquiry focuses on Constance's claim that Jay did not support further inquiries into grooming gangs. Professor Jay later clarified that her remarks referred specifically to the England and Wales Public Inquiry on Child Sexual Abuse, not to Scotland.
Constance made these remarks while opposing a Conservative amendment to a victims bill that called for an inquiry into grooming gangs.
Following these events, Constance survived a no-confidence vote after opposition parties accused her of misrepresentation; the SNP Greens backed the government during the vote.
Independent advisers to the First Minister have initiated the investigation, marking the first time such advisers can independently start inquiries since rule changes were implemented.
The final decision on whether Constance will remain in office rests with First Minister John Swinney.
Constance apologized to Professor Jay, stating her comments were accurate and offering a personal apology in a telephone call without officials present. Clarifications related to the remarks appeared in meeting notes but were not recorded in the official Holyrood record.
Professor Alexis Jay is currently overseeing a review of grooming gang evidence in Scotland.
