MP vows ‘lessons will be learned’ in review

The SNP has promised an external review will be held to look at the support available to staff after an employee claimed he had endured a “living hell” after making a complaint about the behaviour of MP Patrick Grady.

In a statement, Ian Blackford said: “As SNP Westminster leader, I have a duty of care to all of our staff.

“That is why I deeply regret that a member of staff was subject to inappropriate behaviour. It was unacceptable and should never have happened. I am sorry that it did.”

He added: “Staff must have full confidence that the group takes complaints seriously.

“In this case, the Independent Complaints and Grievance Scheme investigated what happened. We respect and accept that independent process.”

Mr Blackford continued: “More than that, however, staff have a right to feel fully supported when a complaint is made. I regret that the complainant does not feel that this is the case.

“The way that this situation has played out publicly over the last few days, including recordings from the parliamentary group, has caused distress to the complainant amongst others and I am sorry that is the case.”

He stated: “We will consider all lessons that must be learned to make sure staff have full confidence they will receive the support they need.

“I am initiating an external review of support available to staff, to sit alongside the independent advice service and independent complaints process.

“Raising complaints of this nature is never easy, and I am determined that staff have the support they need.”