Number of ministerial invites to sporting events: FOI release

Information requested

The number of ministerial invites to sporting events since November 1, 2024, and the number accepted.

Also provide a brief description of each invite, which minister or ministers were invited, and the rationale for either accepting or rejecting the invite if available.

Response

I enclose a copy of most of the information you requested

Date received	Minister invited	Invite details	Accepted Y/N	Rationale for decision
Invite received by FM on 6 November 2024	FM, Mr Lochhead, Mr Gray, Ms Todd, Mr Arthur	Attend the Scotland v Croatia match on 15 November 2024	Y	Mr Lochhead was originally identified as the most appropriate Minister to attend due to a planned meeting of the Extra Time Programme, but due to Ministerial availability, the event was undertaken by the First Minister
13 November 2024	FM, Ms Todd, Mr Gray	Invitation to attend the Celtic v Rangers Premier Sports Cup Final on 15 December 2024	Y	Ms Constance was identified as the most appropriate Minister to attend due to the opportunity to discuss football related topics relevant to the Justice portfolio
18 December 2024	Mr Gray	Invitation to the Super League Basketball Trophy Finals	N	Invitation declined as the event was in Birmingham and no meaningful opportunity to discuss basketball related topics with key stakeholders.

During the search for invitations, we did discover an invitation received after 1 November 2024, however, as the event is in the future, we are withholding the information under section 39(1)(i) - personal safety. Releasing information about attendance at future events could endanger the physical safety of the Minister.

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