Reaction to the accusations against actor and comedian Russell Brand continue to dominate Scotland’s front pages. The Times, one of the papers that led the investigation into his alleged conduct, reports that since Saturday more women have come forward with allegations. It says these claims have not yet been investigated but “will now be rigorously checked”.
The Metro reports that the controversy raises questions about what television executives knew about Brand’s alleged behaviour, saying some may have turned a blind eye. The star is accused of rape and sexual assaults, allegations he has strenuously denied, saying his relationships were “always consensual”.
The Daily Telegraph reports that the BBC has launched an urgent inquiry into alleged complaints made against Brand, who worked as a radio presenter for the corporation between 2006 and 2008.
The i also reports on questions about what television executives might have known, saying the industry faces allegations of a culture of “protecting the star” over vulnerable staff.
The Daily Mail asks on its front page why the Left was “obsessed” with Brand. But the lead story is on serial baby killer nurse Lucy Letby, who may have killed three more babies and tried to murder another 15, according to a paediatrician who gave evidence at her trial.
A series of “secret” talks about dangerous Raac concrete in universities and colleges was held with government officials more than six months ago but no minutes or agendas were kept, the Scotsman reveals.
Warnings that homelessness will increase have been given to the government after it was revealed that 4,500 fewer affordable homes than planned are to be built over the next five years, the Herald reports.
Former Labour shadow chancellor John McDonnell told BBC Scotland that a second independence referendum should be allowed if Holyrood decides it wants it, the National reports.
The Daily Record reports that binmen say an attempt to reduce street rubbish in Glasgow using hi-tech reporting methods and bin hubs is making problems worse.
The city’s fly-tipping problems are also highlighted in the Glasgow Times, which reports that prescription drugs have been dumped amongst piles of rubbish at Cathkin Braes mountain bike trails.
Edinburgh Evening News reports that the capital plans to avoid Glasgow’s mistakes when it introduces a low emission zone, by making sure council vehicles are compliant by the time enforcement starts.
The Courier leads with tributes to a well-known Dundee United fan who died 18 years after being paralysed in a road crash returning home from a match. It writes that Heather Hird had not let her injuries stop her attending home and away matches.
The Press and Journal reports that a 20-year-old man is to appear in court over the death of Robert Bromell, who was hit by an ambulance on an emergency call.
A drunk man stole a tractor after crashing his car, the Evening Telegraph reports.
And the Evening Express reports that a 40-year-old man was rushed to hospital and a street locked down after an attack in Aberdeen city centre.
