The Scottish Government has come under criticism after its official social media accounts failed to acknowledge Remembrance Sunday at the time the nation observed a two-minute silence for fallen servicemen and women.
Led by First Minister John Swinney, the SNP administration posted a message about the Sikh festival of Bandi Chhor Divas on X, Instagram and Facebook at 11am on Sunday, the same time people across the UK paused to honour those who died in military service.
The post sparked criticism, particularly as the government had not published a Remembrance Sunday message on its X account by 9am on Monday.
Climate summit announcement adds to controversy
The government later used its social media platforms to promote a taxpayer-funded visit to the COP31 climate summit by Scotland’s Climate Action Secretary, Gillian Martin.
Ms Martin is expected to attend the international gathering, where she will represent Scotland despite the presence of ministers from the UK Government.
The timing of the announcements attracted further criticism from opposition politicians, who questioned why the administration had not given Remembrance Sunday comparable recognition.
Scottish Conservative MP questions government decision
Harriet Cross, the Shadow Secretary of State for Scotland, criticised the handling of the government’s social media accounts and called for an explanation.
She said those responsible for managing the Scottish Government’s X account had serious questions to answer over the failure to acknowledge Remembrance Sunday.
Ms Cross also questioned the decision to publish a message about Bandi Chhor Divas at precisely 11am, when people across the country were observing the two-minute silence.
She argued that the government could have recognised both occasions, pointing out that approximately 83,000 Sikhs were killed while serving in the armed forces during the two World Wars.
Scottish Tory leader raises concerns over Sikh servicemen
Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay also commented on the controversy.
He questioned how Sikhs who currently serve or have previously served in the British armed forces would view the government’s decision.
The criticism followed the publication of the Bandi Chhor Divas message at the exact time set aside for the national remembrance observance.
Swinney attends Edinburgh Remembrance Sunday ceremony
Despite the absence of an initial Remembrance Sunday acknowledgement on X, the Scottish Government later published posts on Facebook and Instagram about the First Minister’s participation in the commemorations.
Mr Swinney attended the Remembrance Sunday ceremony in Edinburgh, where he laid a wreath in honour of those who lost their lives in war.
The commemorations began with a military parade along the Royal Mile, marching from Edinburgh Castle and led by the RAF Central Scotland Pipes and Drums.
Wreaths of poppies were subsequently laid at the Stone of Remembrance, with Mr Swinney joined by Scottish Secretary Douglas Alexander.
