Scottish Greens welcome Scottish Government U-turn on double jobs

The Scottish Government is now set to back a move to ban MSPs holding second jobs as an MP ahead of the 2026 election.

Amendments to this effect have been lodged by Conservative MSP Graham Simpson with support from Scottish Green MSP Ross Greer.

Both had brought proposals on this issue to Parliament last month.

Reacting to the news of the u-turn, Local Scottish Green MSP Ross Greer said: “It is impossible to be an MSP in Edinburgh and an MP in London at the same time and to do a good job in both of those roles.

“Serving Scotland is a privilege and a challenge. It requires elected representatives who are completely dedicated to serving their constituents, not their personal career ambitions.

“I am happy that the SNP have finally moved their position in line with that of the Scottish Greens and others across Parliament and I look forward to us passing these proposals next week.”

Parliamentary Business Minister Jamie Hepburn said he aimed to introduce regulations in 2025, ahead of the following year’s Holyrood vote.

The government is due to publish a public consultation on the changes in January.

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