On a busy day for Health Secretary Neil Gray, he has said he was "absolutely committed" to the scheme, which aims to transfer responsibility for social care away from councils to a new national body.

Gray made a statement after coming under fire for attending matches involving Aberdeen FC at Hampden by invitation of the Scottish Football Association.

Health Secretary Neil Gray said he was "absolutely committed" to the scheme, which aims to transfer responsibility for social care away from councils to a new national body. Opposition parties are opposed to the plans, which have already been delayed by three years due to financial pressures and uncertainty over costs.

Neil Gray has denied he attended several Aberdeen matches "more as a fan and less of a minister" following a row over his use of an official chauffeur-driven car. The SNP Health Secretary - a well-known Dons supporter - apologised today after a backlash for using a ministerial vehicle to attend six games at Pittodrie and Hampden Park,

Defending Neil Gray's workrate. the first minister explains his minister has undertaken 347 engagements since becoming health secretary. John Swinney lists these meetings in detail, including five sporting events.