Media coverage of John Swinney's World Cup trip expenses 'clickbait', Flynn says

Scotland’s economy, tourism and transport cabinet secretary defended First Minister John Swinney after his World Cup trip expenses became a leading UK news story. Scottish Government Freedom of Information data published on Thursday showed nearly £100,000 was spent on flights for Swinney and officials to and from Boston, Kentucky and Miami. Swinney, along with sports minister Maree Todd and other officials, travelled to the US in June for the World Cup and held trade talks in Kentucky. During BBC interviews, Swinney said the costs were higher due to tight booking timelines and that officials tried to minimise them. On BBC Scotland’s Scotcast, Flynn backed the travel, arguing business-class seating helps officials stay ready to work on Scotland’s behalf.