Tories in Bias Claim After Douglas Ross Kicked Out of FMQs

Former Scottish Conservative leader Douglas Ross has accused the Scottish Parliament’s Presiding Officer, Alison Johnstone, of bias after he was ejected from First Minister’s Questions (FMQs) for speaking over Deputy First Minister John Swinney during his response. Ross, representing the Highlands and Islands, was ordered to leave the chamber and barred from returning for the remainder of the day.

The Scottish Conservatives have labeled the incident as “blatant bias,” alleging that Johnstone has consistently favored certain parties over others. A party spokesperson stated that discussions would be sought to address the perceived partiality. In response, a Scottish Parliament spokesperson clarified that Ross had been previously warned on multiple occasions about his conduct in the chamber, including on May 21, May 8, April 22, and April 3. The spokesperson emphasized that Ross’s persistent disregard for parliamentary rules led to his removal.

Ross has expressed intentions to meet with the Presiding Officer and her officials to discuss the matter further. He described the ejection as unprecedented and questioned Johnstone’s ability to maintain neutrality.

This incident highlights ongoing tensions within the Scottish Parliament regarding the enforcement of parliamentary decorum and the perceived impartiality of its leadership.