Scottish First Minister John Swinney has publicly condemned reports that a female Member of the Scottish Parliament (MSP) had a secret recording device planted in her Holyrood office by a member of her own staff, calling the alleged conduct "completely and utterly unacceptable".
Investigation into Holyrood Incident
Officials at the Scottish Parliament are now investigating the alleged bugging incident, which is said to have been carried out by a man and to have taken place in 2023. According to a report in The Scotsman newspaper, the staff member involved is still associated with the SNP and subsequently moved to work for a male MP after the issue came to light.
While Sky News has not independently verified all details, a senior party source with knowledge of the events stated the report is "100% true". The source further alleged that "the SNP did nothing; indeed he simply got moved and continued to be promoted by very senior members of executive." The female MSP, who has not been named, is described as well-liked and respected by colleagues.
Political Fallout and Criticism
When questioned by reporters in Edinburgh on Thursday 18 December 2025, Mr Swinney said he was not fully briefed on the specifics but was unequivocal in his condemnation. "Individuals are entitled to operate in an open and transparent environment that shouldn't be subjected to that kind of behaviour," he stated.
The incident has sparked significant criticism from political opponents. Scottish Labour's deputy leader, Jackie Baillie, said: "These jaw-dropping revelations pose serious questions for the SNP top brass. It appears a grave breach of privacy and potentially criminal behaviour has been swept under the carpet by the SNP."
Sky News sources also revealed that the victim required counselling following the incident, with one source suggesting the SNP "definitely has a woman problem" and that this was "not a one-off incident."
Employment Responsibility and Party Response
In response to the allegations, an SNP spokesperson emphasised that MPs and MSPs employ staff directly, not the political party. The spokesperson said: "The SNP has no involvement in the employment processes of parliamentarians. That is a confidential matter between elected members, employees, and Scottish parliament authorities."
The spokesperson added that the reports "outline a very traumatic situation for those involved and nobody should ever have to experience fear or harassment for doing their job."
A spokesperson for the Scottish Parliament confirmed its standard procedure, stating: "Each MSP is an employer in their own right and is responsible for managing staff welfare issues and employment disputes. Complaints about staff conduct are investigated by an independent adviser."
