A FLAGSHIP scheme to support new parents in Scotland faces controversy after its Finnish originators suggested there was no evidence it reduced infant mortality.

At First Minister’s Questions (FMQs) yesterday, Nicola Sturgeon faced a grilling over the “baby box” scheme. The Guardian had reported that cot death expert Dr Peter Blair had raised concerns about their safety.

New mums are given a cardboard box containing essential items for newborns. The boxes are also promoted as a safe place in which infants can sleep.