https://steverowlandnews.com/news/john-swinney-defends-45-000-business-class-flights-to-world-cup/ https://steverowlandnews.com/posters/ep_1787230436845_ofrft.jpg?v=1787230605522 John Swinney defends £45,000 business-class flights to World Cup First Minister John Swinney has defended spending £45,000 on business-class flights for a trip to the US World Cup and trade talks. The Scottish Government spent almost £100,000 in total on the visits. https://steverowlandnews.com/video/john-swinney-defends-45-000-business-class-flights-to-world-cup.mp4 88 2026-08-20T13:10:06.654Z https://steverowlandnews.com/news/travelodge-boss-steps-down-as-safety-overhaul-announced/ https://steverowlandnews.com/posters/ep_1787214072714_agu0j.jpg Travelodge boss Jo Boydell quits amid guest safety row Travelodge chief executive Jo Boydell has resigned with immediate effect after 13 years in the role, as the hotel chain undertakes a safety overhaul. https://steverowlandnews.com/video/travelodge-boss-steps-down-as-safety-overhaul-announced.mp4 75 2026-08-20T08:22:40.817Z https://steverowlandnews.com/news/operation-venetic-drugs-boss-who-fled-to-spain-jailed/ https://steverowlandnews.com/posters/ep_1787143494463_orc9l.jpg Operation Venetic: Brit who fled to Spain sentenced for masterminding drugs and firearms supply worth £3.75m A British gang leader who fled to Spain has been jailed alongside his couriers for running a £3.75m drugs and firearms ring. The National Crime Agency tracked Craig Bennett through encrypted Encrochat messages. https://steverowlandnews.com/video/operation-venetic-drugs-boss-who-fled-to-spain-jailed.mp4 76 2026-08-19T15:16:45.004Z