Every MSP must oppose Scottish Parliament's attempt to restrict press freedom and democratic scrutiny
MSPs so afraid of questions that they would restrict press freedom are truly frightening
Terrifying news from the heart of Scottish democracy: MSPs fear to walk inside the Holyrood parliament because of “large groups” of people “congregating at stairways, thoroughfares and entrances to offices”. The situation prompted the Presiding Officer and chief executive to issue a statement saying it was their “duty to ensure that no one feels unsafe, intimidated or harassed”.
So just who are these ravening hordes? Juvenile delinquents, like those causing chaos in schools? Prisoners released early because our jails are overflowing?
No, they’re journalists. Their heinous crime? Asking questions. You read that right, our elected representatives can’t face being asked about schools, prisons or other issues of the day. Or rather, some can’t.
Labour’s Jackie Baillie makes clear in her latest Scotsman column that she’s appalled by the attempt to confine the press to a ‘pen’. Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay, a former journalist, went further, dismantling the makeshift structure himself.
Journalists plan to ignore the pen in the name of press freedom and democratic scrutiny – two key principles of a free society that every MSP should support. The truly scary thing is that some clearly do not.
Comments
Want to join the conversation? Please or to comment on this article.