Greens press Swinney on scientific transparency
Scottish Greens have called on the Scottish Government to publish the advice provided by its scientific advisory group, which underpins its coronavirus strategy.
Questioning the Deputy First Minister at a digital Covid-19 committee session this afternoon, Greens MSP Ross Greer called on the government to publish the information. In response Mr Swinney said he would consider and discuss the request with other government ministers.
Ross Greer MSP said:
“The Scottish Government’s response to the coronavirus crisis has changed as time has gone on. The advice is now to wear face coverings in places where distancing is difficult, despite previously saying this was unnecessary, and the government has begun testing a limited number of asymptomatic people, having previously claimed that those who are not displaying symptoms should not be tested.
“It’s understandable that the government’s approach and advice will change as more is learned about the virus, but there are still significant questions around the strategy pursued by the Scottish Government. It’s unclear for instance why the government refuses to adopt Scottish Greens proposals, endorsed by a number of experts, to regularly test hospital workers and carers when it has already conceded that another asymptomatic group, those over 70 admitted to hospital for other reasons, will now be routinely tested.
“It’s vital that the government is as transparent as possible at this unprecedented time and I’m pleased that the Deputy First Minister has indicated he will consider publishing more data. He must do so urgently.”