Labour MSP Pam Duncan-Glancy has publicly defended her personal relationship with a twice-convicted paedophile after being suspended from the party. Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar announced the suspension following the emergence of new information, though specific details remain undisclosed.
Background of the Controversy
Ms Duncan-Glancy was previously dismissed from her role as Scottish Labour's shadow education secretary in December after revelations about her friendship with Sean Morton surfaced. Morton, a former Labour councillor in Moray, was first convicted in 2017 for possessing indecent images of children and extreme animal pornography.
Recent Conviction and Party Action
In January 2025, Morton faced another conviction for possessing indecent child images and breaching a sexual offences order, resulting in a 16-month prison sentence. Mr Sarwar stated that the suspension occurred due to "new information" coming to light during an ongoing investigation, though he did not elaborate on the specifics.
Duncan-Glancy's Statement
In a detailed statement, Ms Duncan-Glancy expressed her deep disappointment with the party's decision to remove the whip, noting that the reasons for the timing were unclear to her. She emphasized that her relationship with Morton, whom she described as growing up with her and staying with her family during childhood, has never impacted her professional duties.
She clarified: "I have never condoned his crimes and have always been clear that his actions were wrong. The justice system rightly dealt with him when he was convicted of these very serious crimes."
Motivations and Values
Ms Duncan-Glancy explained that her actions stemmed from loyalty and care, stating that Morton remains a vulnerable individual requiring support. She acknowledged that not everyone would understand her reasons but highlighted that providing welfare to a highly vulnerable person aligns with values she believes make her a good representative.
She added, "Loyalty and care are values that I think make me a good representative and for which I believe others know me for." Ms Duncan-Glancy also expressed gratitude for the support she has received from constituents, colleagues, family, friends, and strangers.
Political Context and Future Plans
As the first permanent wheelchair user in parliament, Ms Duncan-Glancy stated she will continue her work in the short term, winding down her office and completing casework for constituents. She affirmed her commitment to fighting for a better Scotland and world beyond this period.
Sarwar's Response
Mr Sarwar reiterated his actions, noting that he sacked Ms Duncan-Glancy from the shadow cabinet upon learning of the situation and removed her as a candidate after she failed to provide appropriate answers to his questions. The withdrawal of the whip followed the investigation and new information.
In a related development, Keir Starmer's longstanding communications chief has also been suspended from the Labour whip in his new role in the Lords after it was revealed he campaigned on behalf of Morton.
