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Holyrood apology as woman with ‘suffragette’ scarf ordered to leave

A woman wearing a purple, white and green scarf was ejected in “error” by Scottish Parliament security who considered it a political symbol during a crucial debate on gender law reforms.

The decision to ask the woman to leave led to an angry backlash from people complaining it was just an accessory bearing colours associated with the Suffragettes movement.

Holyrood’s presiding officer tried to draw a line under the controversial act with a public apology.

The row was sparked as MSPs from the equalities and human rights committee discussed changes to new laws for transgender people in Scotland.

The SNP proposals aim to make it easier for trans men and women across the country to legally change their gender.

Some critics believe the reforms undermine women’s rights.

Alison Johnstone climate emergency
Holyrood presiding officer Alison Johnstone. Credit: Fraser Bremner.

Sharing a photo of her scarf on social media, the woman said it was “inoffensive” and accused Holyrood of “policing clothes colours”.

She had been asked to take off the scarf by officials in the morning committee session and was then asked to leave when she declined to do so.

Scottish Parliament presiding officer Alison Johnstone said it had been an “error” to remove the woman from the public hearing.

Political slogans, flags and banners are banned for visitors in Holyrood, but Ms Johnstone insisted colours promoting women’s right to vote are allowed.

‘I would like to apologise’

In a statement, she said: “We actively support and promote universal suffrage in a number of ways at Holyrood and will continue to do so.

“I would like to advise the Chamber that the action taken this morning was not prompted by any of the members of the Committee.

“The action taken was an error, and I would like to apologise on behalf of the Parliament.”

Concerns over the incident were raised during the committee meeting by Tory MSP Russell Findlay.

Dundee SNP MSP Joe FitzPatrick then suspended the hearing for a private discussion.

Amendments to the government’s proposed gender reforms were made during the debate.

Transgender reforms are being debated in parliament. Image: Shutterstock.

What is happening to gender laws?

Youngsters aged 16 and 17 who want to transition will have to wait six months instead of three before they can apply for a recognition certificate.

SNP minister Shona Robison also said a new offence will be created for those who make a fraudulent application.

The first stage of the controversial gender reforms passed in parliament in October, but the SNP faced a minor rebellion.

Nine of their MSPs declined to vote for the proposals, seven voted against, and government minister Ash Regan stood down.

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