Rachel Keenan

Scottish prison overcrowding has prompted criticism of the SNP-led Scottish Government, with Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay blaming decades of inadequate capacity and the delayed, sharply more expensive Glasgow prison. Early-release schemes have been used as the prison population rises, while the UK Government plans further releases in England and Wales. Liberal Democrat MP Christine Jardine called early release an emergency measure and urged investment in prisons, risk assessment and non-custodial sentences. Justice Secretary Neil Gray said Scotland’s prison population had reached unsustainable levels, outlined plans to build two prisons and maximize existing capacity, and stressed that sexual and domestic abuse offenders are excluded from the current release scheme.

Fire crews continued to battle a large wildfire in the Cairngorms, with officials confirming that Aviemore is no longer in the immediately affected area. The blaze, which began near Ryvoan Bothy, has burned several square kilometres, prompting evacuations and closures across Glenmore Forest Park. Helicopters, fire appliances and specialist teams remain on site as authorities work to contain the fire amid challenging conditions and persistent smoke. Government ministers and emergency services report the situation as largely contained, though warnings remain in place for access restrictions, health risks and continued high wildfire danger across parts of Scotland. Conservation groups expressed concern over environmental damage, and community volunteers and partner agencies continue to support firefighting efforts.