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Holyrood exodus: iPad scandal MSP’s worst moments

(Photo by Ken Jack/Getty Images)

The Holyrood exodus continues as more SNP MSPs throw in the towel ahead of the 2026 election. While some of the party’s Westminster politicians gear up to contest the next Scottish parliament election, a number of famous faces are stepping down – including one Michael Matheson, who announced on Sunday that he would not be standing for re-election. How very interesting.

The SNP’s former health secretary was forced out of his ministerial job after an unedifying few months, where he was accused of using a parliamentary device on holiday and, incredibly, attempting to make taxpayers pick up the tab. After serving in the Scottish Parliament for over a quarter of a decade, the £11,000 iPad scandal left a rather large black mark by Matheson’s name. Now the politician has now finally announced his intention to quit next year, Mr S has compiled a list of some of the worst parts of the whole debacle…

Matheson accused of lying to press over iPad use

In November 2023, after the pressure piled on the then-health secretary to come clean about the truth behind his iPad bill, Matheson addressed the Holyrood Chamber and confessed his sons had used the device – and a rather lot of data – to watch the football while on holiday in Morocco.

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Steerpike
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Steerpike

Steerpike is The Spectator's gossip columnist, serving up the latest tittle tattle from Westminster and beyond. Email tips to steerpike@spectator.co.uk or message @MrSteerpike

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