Yousaf Calls for SNP Reflection Following Conviction of Former Council Leader
Former Scottish First Minister Humza Yousaf has stated that the Scottish National Party should reflect on criticism it has received from individuals who filed complaints against Jordan Linden, the former leader of North Lanarkshire Council. Linden was convicted on Thursday of 10 separate offences, including five sexual assaults, following a trial at Falkirk Sheriff Court.
Victims Speak Out About Lack of Action
In an interview with STV News on Friday, an anonymous victim expressed frustration that Linden's actions could have been stopped earlier. The victim detailed how they and others were not believed, were called liars, and were pushed out of politics. They emphasized that Linden was enabled and expressed hope that the reasons behind this would eventually come to light.
Responding to mounting criticism, the SNP announced on Friday that it had launched an independent review of its complaints procedures. This move came after a Sunday Times report revealed that a letter was sent to First Minister John Swinney in September last year, urging him to initiate a probe into the complaints process.
Yousaf Highlights Past Improvements and Current Need for Reflection
In a BBC interview recorded before the review was announced but aired on Sunday, Mr Yousaf noted that the SNP had strengthened its processes in response to the MeToo movement. He explained that the party had introduced measures such as allowing individuals to speak with an independent legal adviser to avoid perceived conflicts of interest when making complaints.
Obviously, these allegations and these complaints – and now charges that Jordan Linden has been found guilty of – they're criminal, so rightly complaints are made to the police, Yousaf said. But the party, of course, should reflect on any complaints that have been made, any criticisms from those who have been victims of inappropriate behaviour, and we should always seek to do better.
Political Reactions and Calls for Transparency
First Minister John Swinney has apologized to Linden's victims, stating on Saturday that he is very, very sorry for what they have experienced. However, Scottish Labour deputy leader Dame Jackie Baillie criticized Swinney for failing to act on the letter sent to him last year and not responding to it.
Baillie accused Swinney of caring more about protecting the SNP's reputation than the victims of a sex predator. She called for a televised press conference where Swinney would provide complete transparency about his knowledge of Linden and the reasons for inaction, alleging that the SNP had sought to cover up and gaslight victims for years.
An SNP spokesman addressed the situation, telling the Times that the party has undertaken a comprehensive review of its complaints procedures since 2016. In light of this case, Swinney has instructed an independent review to ensure people are protected and that the procedures are as robust as possible.
