AN economist has been suspended from the SNP following accusations of racism sparked by an assault on House Secretary Priti Patel.
Dr Tim Rideout replied to a publish about remarks Patel made, citing issues a few potential backdoor for Ukrainian refugees coming into the UK from Eire.
The publish learn: “Taoiseach Micheal Martin has confirmed that Priti Patel complained to the Irish authorities that Eire’s welcoming coverage in direction of Ukrainian refugees would permit them to achieve the UK by the again door.”
Rideout, a Lothians member of the SNP Coverage Growth Committee, replied: “So how will we ship this particular person again to Uganda? Clearly hasn’t a shred of humanity. Thoughts you, perhaps the brand new proposed refugee middle on St Helena may keep away from inflicting her on anybody. Can evaluate notes with Napoleon’s ghost.”
So how will we ship this particular person again to Uganda? Clearly hasn’t a shred of humanity. Thoughts you, perhaps the brand new proposed refugee middle on St Helena may keep away from inflicting her on anybody. Can evaluate notes with Napoleon’s ghost.
— Tim Rideout (@RideoutTim) March 10, 2022
The Herald requested the SNP in regards to the feedback, which the get together labeled “offensive and disgusting”.
It is understood Dr Rideout has now been suspended from the get together with an investigation to ensue.
Opposition politicians took goal on the economist, with Tory MSP Donald Cameron calling it “fully past the pale”.
He stated: “To make such a racially-charged comment like that is completely unacceptable – it has no place in civilized debate.”
Talking earlier than the suspension was introduced, he added: “In addition to issuing an unreserved apology to the House Secretary, Tim Rideout ought to take into account his personal place.
“Equally, Nicola Sturgeon should reassess his function and affect inside her get together instantly, or danger turning a blind eye to this type of conduct.
“The First Minister should ship a transparent message that appalling remarks reminiscent of this haven’t any place in our political discourse.”
Labour’s Shadow Scottish Secretary Ian Murray MP added: “These are really horrendous and outright racist remarks from a key advisor to Nicola Sturgeon.
“Whereas I’m no supporter of Priti Patel, no one needs to be subjected to this type of out and out racism. It has no place in Scotland.”
He continued: “Nicola Sturgeon should droop Tim Rideout’s membership of the SNP and take away him from his advisory positions instantly.
“I additionally hope Police Scotland take motion.”
And Alex Cole-Hamilton, the chief of the Scottish Liberal Democrats, stated: “Mr Rideout is anA influential determine within the Nationalist motion, which makes this nakedly racist broadside all of the extra severe.”
Requested if they’d be reducing ties with Dr Rideout, an SNP spokesperson advised The Herald: “This tweet is offensive and disgusting.”
They added: “The Nationwide Secretary has been made conscious and is trying into this.”
