Labour and Greens to back double jobbing ban

MSPs could move to end the holding of dual mandates after Labour and the Greens said they would back Tory MSP Graham Simpson’s bid to do so.

Simpson had introduced an amendment to the Scottish Elections (Representation and Reform) Bill currently going through parliament to prevent MSPs from also being MPs.

He did not press the amendment at stage 2 after government minister Jamie Hepburn said the matter “should be addressed with discussion and consultation, not through this bill”.

However, Simpson now intends to bring back the amendment at stage 3.

It follows SNP Westminster leader Stephen Flynn confirming his intention to stand for Holyrood in 2026. He said if elected he would continue to be the MP for Aberdeen South, a practice known as double jobbing.

Flynn has faced significant backlash for the plan, including by some colleagues within his party.

Scottish Labour’s business manager Martin Whitfield confirmed his party’s support for the amendment. He said: “Being an MP or an MSP is a full-time job and it is the height of arrogance to try and do both. Whether it’s Douglas Ross or Stephen Flynn, Tory and SNP politicians have been taking their constituents for granted for too long.”

The Scottish Greens also back ending dual mandates, and already have rules in place for their own members. Gillian Mackay, the group’s business manager, said: “The Scottish Greens support ending dual mandates between Holyrood and Westminster. This isn't about individuals, it is about recognising the importance of our parliament and the work it does. This has gone on for too long.”

The Scottish Conservatives are undecided on the matter, with MSPs split on their view.

Former leader Douglas Ross was both an MSP and MP between May 2021 until he stood down at the end of September, though it was his decision to stand in the general election in July that led to his resignation.

He said if he was re-elected to Westminster he would stand down as an MSP, though he was ultimately defeated by the SNP’s Seamus Logan.

The amendment would bring the Scottish Parliament into line with the other devolved parliaments in the UK, with neither Welsh MSs or Northern Irish MLAs able to be MPs at the same time.

The move would not stop MSPs or MPs standing for election in the other parliament but would require resignation from one if elected.

Simpson is also bringing forward an amendment to prevent dual mandates for Holyrood and the House of Lords.