Scottish Parliament – Jan. 28, 2026 – 53

The result of the division on motion S6M-20561, in the name of Anas Sarwar, on the role of political decision making in NHS scandals, as amended, is: For 64, Against 56, Abstentions 0. Motion, as amended, agreed to, That the Parliament condemns the culture of secrecy and cover-up that has hidden the truth from patients, families and campaigners and denied them justice in many NHS scandals in Scotland in recent years;

recognises that, as the Scottish Hospitals Inquiry draws to a close, many serious questions remain regarding the decision-making process and the role of the Scottish Government;

considers that political decision making should be considered by the inquiry, and calls for the Scottish Ministers to authorise the immediate full disclosure and preservation of all communications connected to the contaminated water and inadequate ventilation system and the premature opening of the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital, as well as any subsequent communications relating to the handling of the infection and its cover-up;

acknowledges that recent revelations surrounding the Queen Elizabeth University Hospital will have been distressing for patients, their families and staff;

understands that this could create uncertainty and fear regarding the safety of Scotland’s hospitals and negatively impact staff morale;

recognises that patient privacy has to be given the greatest consideration in the publication of any materials, and calls for the Scottish Government to outline how it will urgently restore confidence into the services delivered by NHS Greater Glasgow and Clyde.