Former data commissioner to lead review of Scottish Government WhatsApp use

The use of WhatsApp by ministers and senior officials in the Government came under scrutiny at the UK Covid-19 Inquiry.Humza Yousaf announced the external review in January, after conceding the handling of requests for WhatsApp messages had not been his Government’s “finest hour”.She will look at the use of mobile messaging apps, the use of non-corporate devices in Government business, as well as whether updates to the ministerial and civil service code are needed.

Martins, who has worked in the information regulatory office in Jersey, will have access to civil service documentation as part of her review. Minister for Parliamentary Business George Adam said: “We are committed to openness and transparency and constantly seek to maintain and improve our performance in this area, which is why the First Minister commissioned this important external review.

“I have no doubt her impartial expertise will prove vital in further strengthening our approach to the use of informal communications as technology increasingly integrates into all our lives.”We know there are thousands of National readers who want to debate, argue and go back and forth in the comments section of our stories. We’ve got the most informed readers in Scotland, asking each other the big questions about the future of our country.

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