Mark McDonald to remain as independent MSP following SNP probe
The former childcare minister said he had resigned from the SNP with immediate effect after the party mounted an investigation into his conduct.
Last updated 6th Mar 2018
An MSP who quit the Scottish Government because of his “inappropriate” behaviour is to remain at Holyrood.
Mark McDonald said he had resigned from the SNP with immediate effect after the party mounted an investigation into his conduct.
But he said he would continue to represent his Aberdeen Donside constituency as an independent MSP.
The married father of two stepped down from the post of Childcare and Early Years Minister in the Scottish Government on November 4, with reports claiming he had sent a text message to a woman which allegedly included a reference to a sex act.
He was then suspended by the party 12 days later after fresh allegations about his conduct came to light.
Labour parliamentary business manager Rhoda Grant said: "Mark McDonald decided his conduct was not fit for a minister or an SNP MSP - but somehow it is acceptable for an MSP without party affiliation.
"People in Aberdeen Donside will rightly question that. It looks like Mark McDonald has put the reputation of the SNP before what is best for his constituents."