‘Complaints were made that couldn’t be ignored’

relating to Complaints were made in January Alex Salmond by two individuals. since These complaints have been considered ministers and then under a procedure covering by me in December former ministers that was agreed about harassment. 2017 in the wake of public concern time of the fact Although I have been aware for some Alex Salmond – I of the investigation – initially from to have referred have had no role in the process, and the to it before now would have compromised which I was not integrity of the internal investigation, by the prepared to do. However, I was informed week that she had Permanent Secretary earlier this that she intended to completed her investigation and make the fact of the complaints public. the Scottish Alex Salmond is now challenging The Scottish Government’s procedure in court. of its process and Government refutes his criticisms will defend its position vigorously. deflect from the However, this focus on process cannot could not be fact that complaints were made that ignored or swept under the carpet. that all I have been clear on many occasions make it possible organisations and workplaces must concerns and for people to come forward to report treated seriously. have confidence that they will be it cannot be For that principle to mean anything without fear or applied selectively. It must be applied seniority or political favour, regardless of the identity, allegiance of the person involved. obviously makes My relationship with Alex Salmond for me to come to this an extremely difficult situation how upsetting this terms with. I am also acutely aware overriding priority will be for my party. However the I must be to ensure fair and due process. those who would also ask that the privacy of have complained be respected. NICOLA STURGEON