SNP MP calls for review into party's handling of harassment complaints
Amy Callaghan has also apologised for comments she made in support of suspended MP Patrick Grady during a meeting about his return
Last updated 20th Jun 2022
An SNP MP is calling for a "root and branch" review into how the party handles misconduct complaints following the suspension of Patrick Grady.
Amy Callaghan has also issued an apology after a recording emerged of members being urged to support the Glasgow North MP on his return.
In a statement on Twitter the East Dunbartonshire MP said her comments in support of Mr Grady were "insensitive, poorly worded and misplaced" and she apologised to "anyone - especially survivors of harassment - who has been hurt or triggered as a result."
She goes on to say the party is "falling short in supporting complainants" and that she has written to the Chief Whip calling for a "root and branch review" into how complaints are handled.
Mr Grady was suspended from parliament for two days after an independent investigation ruled he behaved inappropriately towards the junior member of staff.
The SNP also withdrew the whip from the MP until he had served his suspension.
Criticism from inside and outside the party
Audio from the meeting was leaked to the Daily Mail newspaper over the weekend, where leader Ian Blackford said he is "very much looking forward to welcoming Patrick back into the group next week", and encouraging fellow MPs to offer "as much support as possible".
That has led to criticism both from within the party and from political opponents.
In a pair of tweets on Monday, Joanna Cherry said: "I wasn't at the SNP Westminster group meeting last week.
"I don't condone the covert recording or leak. However, for some time the SNP has had significant problems in how it handles complaints.
"My party needs to reflect on the contrast between the treatment of different offenders and to review our arrangements for the pastoral care of complainers."
Ms Cherry has frequently been at odds with party leadership over a number of issues including her opposition to reform of gender recognition legislation.
Calls for a response from Ian Blackford
Scottish Conservative MP John Lamont has written to the SNP’s Westminster leader for a second time on his handling of the complaint against Mr Grady.
The Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk representative told MFR News: “Mr Blackford never replied to my letter, and now he’s scurrying around desperately trying to avoid questions from the media and others about what role he played in the Patrick Grady scandal.
“It’s very clear that the SNP seem to be more concerned with party unity and trying desperately to protect Mr Grady at the expense of Mr Grady’s victim who has clear been through a horrific ordeal.
“Most people will feel that this is not acceptable. It will also, I fear, discourage other victims of this type of behaviour from coming forward.”
Mr Grady made an apology in the Commons after the suspension was handed down, saying: "I am profoundly sorry for my behaviour and I deeply regret my actions and their consequences."