Quangos

Part of First Minister's Question Time – in the Scottish Parliament at 12:00 pm on 13 September 2007.

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Photo of Alex Salmond Alex Salmond First Minister of Scotland, Leader, Scottish National Party 12:00, 13 September 2007

John Wilson is being quite coy, but the figure of 60 per cent related to the number of people who declared allegiance to the Labour Party. That is a remarkable fact. My comment has upset Labour members, but facts are chiels that winna ding, and 60 per cent seems to be a very high percentage. In fairness, I should point out that the number of people in quangos who identify themselves with a political party is low when compared with the total number. It should also be said that many people on quangos and other bodies contribute selflessly to public service.

However, John Wilson raises a fair point. I will ask officials to investigate and I will bring comments on the matter back to Parliament.