MSP locked out of Scottish Parliament after claims he placed secret camera in toilet

An MSP has been accused of sticking a camera in a toilet at Edinburgh's Scottish Parliament. This month, Labour had dismissed Colin Smyth on suspicion of having indecent photographs of children. Smyth's building access had been suspended as a result of a ongoing criminal probe, according to Holyrood's corporate body, who told staff by email. The South Scotland MSP will appear in Dumfries Sheriff Court at a later date as a result of the child photograph charge.

According to a study in the Daily Recordnewspaper, he would face a new charge by police as a result of the camera charges. Several senior political figures have confirmed this to BBC Scotland News. Smyth has served in various frontbench positions, most recently in April 2023, and was previously Scottish Labour's general secretary.

Swift action was taken after we became aware of these serious allegations,

a Scottish Labour Party spokesperson said. Colin Smyth MSP is an independent MSP.

We are unable to comment further on these highly concerning developments while legal proceedings are ongoing.

Smyth will be refused entry to the building ahead of Holyrood's return from recess next week,

Holyrroody chief executive David McGill told MSPs that the church will be denied access

We know the criminal charges and the ongoing probe are being upsetting for employees and cause fear,he said.We would therefore like to notify anyone who works in Holyrood or constituency offices of the confidential support services that are available. "Smyth is thought to have been able to participate in debates and vote remotely using a device that was not available at Holyrood during the pandemic.

'Deeply stressful time'

Smyth has worked as a modern studies instructor and has children. To Holyrood magazine, he has talked about his wife and daughters. Smyth said he was cooperating with investigators following his detention.

These incidents have come as a shock, and it's a very difficult period,

he said in a tweet. Smyth has been contacted for further information.Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body) took the initiative to deactivate Colin Smyth's parliamentary vote, according to a Holyrood spokesperson. "We have notified all building owners in Holyrood.