Latest in Alex Salmond scandal | When is the next travel update?

Aug 26, 2021

Sam Shedden

Engagement Editor

Good morning,

Welcome to your daily newsletter from The Scotsman.

Our top story today is an exclusive report on a civil servant who led the botched investigation into harassment complaints against former first minister Alex Salmond is among nearly 100 civil servants with external financial interests, The Scotsman can reveal.

Sticking in our politics section we're also taking a look at all the key points revealed from the NHS recovery plan.

It was promised within the first 100 days of the new SNP government, and it appeared just as the final day deadline was looming.

A recovery plan for Scotland’s NHS which is trying to get back on its feet after the double whammy of dealing with the Covid crisis – and continuing to do so – while racking up a backlog of cancelled operations, procedures, screenings, dental appointments, eye check ups and a host of other medical necessities, sounds like just what the doctor ordered.

Lastly, today is International Dog Day, a day for dog lovers to celebrate their beloved pooches. With dog ownership continuing to soar post-lockdown we've taken a look at 10 of the healthiest breeds of dog which won't need many vet visits.

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More headlines below.


	Civil servant central to Alex Salmond scandal among second job holders in Scottish Government

	A civil servant who led the botched investigation into harassment complaints against former first minister Alex Salmond is among nearly 100 civil servants with external financial interests, The Scotsman can reveal.

Boris Johnson should hold at least four meetings each year with Nicola Sturgeon and devolved government leaders, says think-tank

The Prime Minister should hold at least four meetings each year with the leaders of the devolved administrations in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland, a think-tank has suggested.

Best dog beds 2021: stylish, comfortable dog beds for all kinds of dogs, and every owner’s budget

It can be a challenge buying your dog a bed they love - we’re here to help

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Scottish ministers refuse to say how COP26 policing costs will be paid

Both the UK and the Scottish governments are refusing to clarify how the costs associated with policing COP26, set to be held in Glasgow in November, will be met.

We could discover life on new exoplanets within two years, say scientists

Astronomers have discovered a new class of planets which could support life, greatly accelerating the search for life outside our Solar System.

Elizabeth Blackadder was a Scottish artist of global significance – Scotsman comment

Work by the artist Elizabeth Blackadder, who has died at the age of 89, can be seen in the Scottish National Gallery of Modern Art, the Tate Gallery in London, and the Museum of Modern Art in New York, among other places.

New six-mile dualled Birnam section of A9 to open at weekend – but there’s still 70 miles to go

A new six-mile section of dual carriageway south of Dunkeld will open this weekend, transport minister Graeme Dey announced today.

10 of the healthiest breeds of adorable dog for owners who want to avoid hefty vet bills

With dog ownership continuing to soar post-lockdown, here are the breeds that are least likely to need a visit to the vet.

Penalty points explained: the most common licence endorsement questions answered

Answering the most commong licence questions, including how long points stay valid and when you need to tell your insurer

Sevilla eye shock move for Rangers attacker, reported signing target distances himself from Ibrox switch, Hibs striker offered new deal - Scottish Premiership Rumour Mill

Thursday’s Scottish football news and gossip.

Celtic's Carl Starfelt lifts the lid on how Joe Hart is setting tone for team's defensive mentality

It might only be a coincidence.

Scotland's women prepare for four World Cup qualifiers in five days

Scotland’s cricket Wildcats begin a truncated World Cup qualifying campaign against the Netherlands this morning, following a three-word mantra.

Pitch perfect: Whole different ball game for Glass' Aberdeen at Pittodrie Europa Conference crunch

Stephen Glass is preparing for a whole different ball game in Aberdeen’s return leg with FK Qarabag – and not simply because the away goals rule change casts the Dons two-legged play-off tie in a new light.

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