Scotland's only Chinese councillor to sue SNP for discrimination

Yen Hongmei Jin has accused the party of racism after her attempts to become a candidate in the UK and Holyrood elections were jeopardised by officials.

It is also claimed that her complaints about the issue were ignored.

Ms Hongmei, who represents Lochar ward in Dumfries and Galloway, believes that officials hampered her attempts to become a candidate in the parliaments because of her background.

She quit the party in 2015 after being subjected to a “racist attack” and “bullying”.

It is alleged that the party ignored a complaint she lodged about a “vulgar” email sent to her by a local party member.

Chinese SNP councillor quits amid ‘racism’ claims

In speaking to The Herald she said: “I am disgusted with the SNP, it is no longer the party I believe in.

“It’s not the people’s party, it’s not Scotland’s party, they are just a party for themselves.

“After everything I’ve done for the SNP, here I had a party member saying that I’m pretending to be Scottish and it’s a pity they have to suffer us.”

Jin claims she received a “very offensive” email from another party member after she sent out a group invitation for Burns Night fundraisers in February.

The reply is said to have questioned her “right to host a Scottish-themed event”.

After complaining to SNP bosses, Jin said that her issue it was acknowledged immediately but no further action was taken.

She said the incident had left her “isolated” and with no option but to resign.

The allegations have been refuted by the SNP.

A party spokesman told the Herald: “We strongly deny Cllr Yen’s claims and we are confident they will be dismissed by the employment tribunal.”

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