A member of the Labour Party is facing charges following accusations of installing a hidden camera in restrooms at the Scottish Parliament. Colin Smyth, a Labour MSP from Dumfries, was arrested and subsequently suspended after being accused of possessing indecent images. The police executed a search warrant at his residence, seizing electronic devices. Smyth’s access to the parliament was revoked as a result of the ongoing investigation.
The Scottish Parliament’s spokesperson confirmed the deactivation of Smyth’s parliamentary pass due to the criminal inquiry. The Parliament’s chief executive informed members via email, acknowledging the distress the situation may cause and offering support services. Smyth, previously arrested for possession of indecent images, was suspended by Scottish Labour pending further investigation.
Initially elected as an MSP in 2016 and re-elected in 2021, Smyth is currently listed as an Independent on the Scottish Parliament’s website. Police Scotland stated that a 52-year-old man from Dumfries was arrested in connection with indecent images and is scheduled to appear in court. Scottish Labour’s spokesperson mentioned the removal of Smyth’s parliamentary privileges pending the investigation.
Smyth released a statement expressing shock and stress over the events, emphasizing cooperation with authorities and requesting privacy for his family. The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service confirmed receipt of a prosecution report related to the case. Labour administratively suspended Smyth upon learning of the police probe.
