The SNP has reinstated the whip to Glasgow MP Patrick Grady following a six-month suspension for making a sexual advance to a teenage staff member. Grady, who represents Glasgow North, had been sitting as an independent MP since a complaint was made against him.
An independent panel ruled in June that Grady engaged in 'unwanted physical touching' at a social event in 2016, leading to a two-day ban from the Commons. He apologised 'profoundly' for his behaviour at the time.
The party confirmed that the suspension, backdated to June, has now expired, allowing Grady to rejoin the SNP group in the Commons led by Stephen Flynn. However, it remains unclear whether he will be eligible to stand as an SNP candidate at the next general election.
The case sparked controversy after then group leader Ian Blackford was recorded urging MPs to 'give as much support as possible' to Grady. Blackford later apologised and established an independent review of staff support.
Scottish Conservatives criticised the decision, stating the SNP should have 'sacked Patrick Grady for good', accusing the party of giving him 'little more than a slap on the wrist'.
