Scottish Labour leader Iain Gray has written to the First Minister calling for clarification over serious allegations about ‘cash for access’ to Alex Salmond and his deputy Nicola Sturgeon.

Iain Gray, MSP, said:

“These are very serious allegations accusing Alex Salmond of selling the office of First Minister for SNP funds. The implication of ‘cash for access’ to the First Minister and his deputy has to be answered.

“Was it wrong of the First Minister to auction lunch with himself in Holyrood to raise £9000 for the SNP? Such grubby behaviour demeans the office.

“The First Minister must make clear who bought the lunches and for how much?

“David Cameron was rebuked and forced to apologise after offering Tory donors lunch and access to House of Commons. Will Alex Salmond do likewise?

“During the recent expenses scandal we have prided ourselves at Holyrood on our standards of behaviour and the transparency of our system.

“Alex Salmond has to explain how his £9000 lunch is connected in anyway to his duties as First Minister or an MSP.”

04/02/10