Scottish Labour set to propose ban on second jobs for MSPs in Holyrood
Neil Bibby MSP says a “serious discussion” around the issue is needed
Scottish Labour is set to put forward legislation in Holyrood to prevent MSPs taking on additional employment.
Neil Bibby MSP said his party will bring forward a ban on second jobs for members of the Scottish Parliament if the SNP fails to do so.
The Scottish Labour business manager said: “The recent revelations of Tory sleaze north and south of the border have made the need for action to clamp down on part-time MSPs more urgent than ever.
“With several Tory MSPs raking in hundreds of thousands of pounds, we need to have a serious discussion over the priorities of some of our elected representatives.
“The role of MSPs should be to fully focus on their constituents and the practice of working second jobs should be banned.
"In the absence of leadership from the Scottish Government, Labour will bring forward a bill to change the law."
In the last parliamentary session, Scottish Labour’s Neil Findlay proposed a change in the law.
This aimed to stop politicians working part-time after being elected but was not debated after parliamentary time was cut due to Covid restrictions.
He added: “There needs to be some exemptions, particularly for those MSPs who require to continue employment to maintain registration such as medical professionals.
“But in general, this bill will sound the death knell for second jobs as a means to line ones pockets.
“It’s high time this gravy train was ended. This proposed bill will ensure that all our MSPs are working full-time for the people of Scotland, not private profit.
“I hope other parties will see the need for action.”