Cammy Day: Edinburgh council leader quits following allegations over messages

The leader of Edinburgh city council Cammy Day has quit over allegations of inappropriate behaviour.  

The Labour councillor is alleged to have sent messages of a sexually explicit nature to at least two Ukrainian refugees who had come to city following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022.  

The Sunday Mail reported that Day had “bombarded Ukrainian refugees” with messages. 

Police Scotland confirmed it is investigating the councillor’s actions, while Scottish Labour suspended him pending the outcome of the investigation.  

It is also alleged the council leader sent messages on social media and added the two individuals on a dating site. They claim he asked sexually explicit questions and suggested meeting for wine.  

It has been reported that the Ukrainian refugees said the messages made them feel uncomfortable but felt pressure to respond due to Day’s status.  

In a statement released today, Day said: “The recent commentary on my personal life is detracting from the important work this Labour-led council does for the people of Edinburgh. It undermines the dedicated efforts of my colleagues and council officers. 

“That’s why it’s time for me to step aside as leader. I have yet to be contacted by the police, but want to reiterate that I will co-operate fully with their ongoing enquiries.” 

He added: “I am hugely proud of what we’ve achieved for the capital during my time as leader and truly believe that Edinburgh is a better, fairer city as a result. 

“I’m also proud to have led a way of successfully doing politics across divides, finding a way to deliver on our priorities for our people and our city. 

“I love Edinburgh and it has been an enormous privilege to have played a part in its ongoing success. I wish the next council leader the very best of luck.”