MSP Walker resigns from Holyrood committees over allegations of abuse

An MSP who was suspended from his party at the weekend following allegations of domestic abuse has resigned from two Holyrood committees.

Dunfermline MSP Bill Walker was suspended from both the SNP and the SNP parliamentary group on Sunday.

The move followed allegations concerning his three former wives. An investigation is being carried out by the party.

Mr Walker resigned membership of both the Local Government and Public Petitions committees at the Scottish Parliament.

An SNP spokesman said: “Mr Walker was a nominee of the SNP. As part of his suspension, Mr Walker was aware he could not continue in this capacity for the time being. However, the decision to resign from the committees rested with Mr Walker.

“We will be seeking to nominate replacements for approval at the earliest opportunity.”

Mr Walker was not available to comment. However, in a statement issued through his Dunfermline constituency office, he said “it was only right” that he resigned during his suspension.

Speaking at the weekend, SNP leader Alex Salmond said: “The SNP’s rules are very clear, and provide for decisive but fair action. The correct action has been taken by the national secretary, in consultation with me as party leader, of suspending Bill Walker from the SNP and the parliamentary group pending a full investigation.

“The SNP’s strongly held position is zero tolerance of violence against women. The information was not reported in Mr Walker’s candidate process as it should have been, and the right course of action has been taken.”

Mr Walker, a councillor, was also suspended by Fife Council.