First Minister John Swinney has delivered a stark message to Scottish National Party members, declaring that the eradication of predators within the party ranks is a more critical priority than the pursuit of Scottish independence. This forceful statement follows his decision to sack a Holyrood candidate over allegations she failed to properly handle complaints against a convicted sex offender.
Candidate Dismissed Over Handling of Linden Case
The controversy centres on Tracy Carragher, the former SNP leader on North Lanarkshire Council, who was removed as a candidate for the Central Scotland and Lothians West region and suspended from the party. This action came after allegations surfaced that she did not pass on complaints concerning Jordan Linden, the former North Lanarkshire Council leader who was recently convicted of ten offences, including five sexual assaults.
"That's What I'm Doing"
When questioned by journalists at an event in Edinburgh on Thursday whether he would explicitly tell activists and elected representatives that rooting out predators supersedes independence, Mr Swinney responded unequivocally: "I think that's what I'm doing." He elaborated that the decision to dismiss Ms Carragher was taken because information had come to light regarding whether complaints in the Linden case were properly handled.
"Some information came to light about whether complaints had been properly handled in relation to the Jordan Linden case," the First Minister stated. "That merits further investigation and that's exactly what will happen. In those circumstances, it's not possible for an individual to be a party member and to be a candidate, which is why that action had to be taken."
Whistleblower Threats Revealed in Recordings
The situation has been further inflamed by the release of recordings from private SNP group meetings, obtained by former councillor Cameron McManus. In these recordings, councillor Claire Barclay can be heard criticising whistleblowers, stating they "put the administration at risk, they've put the party at risk and independence at risk," and later threatening them with the "full force" of party discipline.
Independent Review Launched
In response to mounting concerns about the handling of complaints against Linden, Mr Swinney has initiated an independent review of the entire process. Speaking to the Press Association on Thursday, he confirmed this probe would examine both the specific complaints against Linden and the broader complaint handling procedures within the party.
Emphasising the importance of accountability, the First Minister said, "It's important that the voices of victims and complainants are heard." When challenged that this had not occurred in the Linden case, he acknowledged, "That's one of the issues that's been raised, which is why it's being investigated."
This episode represents a significant moment for the SNP, as its leader publicly prioritises internal safeguarding and ethical governance over the party's foundational goal of Scottish independence, signalling a renewed focus on transparency and victim support within its political operations.
