Scottish Ministers backed a £50,000 cut to royal dignitaries on the day before the Queen passed away at Balmoral Castle. Deputy First Minister and acting Finance Secretary John Swinney unveiled plans to slash the budget of Lord Lieutenants - the monarch’s personal representatives.
Scottish Labour deputy leader Jackie Baillie said: “Every stone should be turned to plug the hole in the SNP government’s finances, but it cannot come at the expense of crucial state functions.”
Lord-Lieutenants are a key link between local communities and the monarchy by arranging visits for members of the Royal Family. They also make nominations for honours and awards and ensure the King’s Private Office is kept informed of issues relating to their area.
