DEVELOPING: Swinney Rejects Shortcut to NHS Wait Time Reduction Amid Growing Concerns

Breaking News Scotland's First Minister John Swinney has rejected claims of a "shortcut" to reducing NHS wait times, despite growing concerns over patient delays. Swinney acknowledged that some patients are waiting "far too long" for treatment, but insisted the Scottish government is working to expand capacity and increase operations. He made these comments ahead of his party's annual conference in Aberdeen. The NHS in Scotland is still recovering from the Covid pandemic, with around one in nine people on a waiting list as of June. The case of an eight-year-old girl with a serious condition whose surgery has been delayed by 18 months has highlighted the issue. Swinney's comments come as junior doctors are set to vote on whether to strike over pay and working conditions. The first minister said "progress is being delivered" in reducing wait times, but critics argue more needs to be done. This is a developing story, with further updates expected as the situation unfolds. *This is a developing story. Updates will be provided as more information becomes available. Based on reporting from Bbc.*