FM calls in Scottish adviser over ‘culture of bullying’ charges
CARWYN Jones has referred himself to an independent adviser to investigate accusations that he allowed a culture of bullying at the heart of Government.
The First Minister has come under increasing pressure to look into claims that ministers were undermined and belittled in the wake of Alyn and Deeside AM Carl Sargeant’s apparent suicide.
James Hamilton, an independent investigator who is adviser to the Scottish Government, has been asked by Mr Jones to examine the allegations.
Former minister Leighton Andrews and ex-government adviser Steve Jones both raised concerns about the “toxic” culture and practices that were allowed to evolve at Cardiff Bay.
Opposition politicians have demanded an independent investigation into the claims. Government rules have now been changed so that an independent probe can be carried out into the First Minister’s conduct.
In a statement, the First Minister said that he had asked Mr Hamilton to look into his conduct. Just two days previously Mr Jones said he would not rule out supporting a Senedd inquiry into the matter.
Mr Jones said: “I have listened to those who have called for an independent referral process to be available in circumstances where it requires a source of external and independent advice.”
The ministerial code has now been change to allow for the appointment of the independent adviser.
Mr Jones’ statement added: “I have agreed with James Hamilton, a current Independent Adviser to the Scottish Government, to accept an immediate referral from me in relation to allegations made in the last two weeks that I breached the Ministerial Code.”
Senior AMs have agreed that a debate will take place on 29 November to vote on whether the Committee for the Scrutiny of the First Minister should investigate the claims.
Replying to Plaid Cymru leader Leanne Wood who asked about an alleged discrepancy in answers about bullying he said there were no specific accusations.
He said: “No specific accusation of bullying was ever presented to me either formally or informally. No evidence was given to me, nor was that word bullying ever used in that way.”