Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee 29 April 2025
I will just say a couple of words in response to members’ contributions. First, Rachel Hamilton said that I was the CEO of Edinburgh Rape Crisis Centre, but that is not true. I was chief operating officer at the point of my election. At the time of the witness session in question, that connection had long ceased. I just want to correct the record there.
Pam Gosal said that we have been chosen by our constituents
“to be their voice and represent their interests”.
That is precisely what I have been doing: representing trans and non-binary constituents and their friends and loved ones who live in the region that I am privileged to represent.
In response to Paul O’Kane’s challenge to me, I say categorically that I do respect the rule of law and the independence of the judiciary; I have no problems in confirming either of those things. I have never questioned the Supreme Court’s right—its constitutional right—to make the judgments that it has made on this, or any, matter.
Finally, I repeat the words of Lord Hope:
“I do not think that she should stand down or be removed from her post but she should be more careful with her language.”
Convener, I thank everyone who has contributed to the debate so far—I know that Tess White will sum up in a moment. I am grateful for members’ thoughts and comments and I will, of course, reflect on and consider what has been said this morning.