We all feel deeply violated.. I am sick to my stomach and I know others are too

Smyth did not lose building until Record made inquiry, He took constituents on tou despite indecent pics charge, Fellow politicians ask why Holyrood bar took so long

- PAUL HUTCHEON

HOLYROOD bosses have been slammed for allowing MSP Colin Smyth to enter the Parliament building AFTER he was charged with possessing indecent images of children.

Smyth, who has also been charged in connection with a hidden camera in a Holyrood toilet, was able to use his MSP pass for the visit this month.

Police Scotland said Smyth, elected as a Labour MSP at the last two Holyrood elections, was charged on August 5 over the possession of indecent images.

The Record can now reveal that Smyth attended Parliament after that date and was able to freely use the facilities.

Parliament bosses said they revoked Smyth's Holyrood pass on Thursday after we approached them over claims about a hidden recording device in a bathroom.

Smyth confirmed he visited Holyrood after being charged, saying: "This was a request by constituents to visit Parliament that was in the diary for months." He also denied the camera claims, saying: "This allegation came as an utter shock and one I strongly refute. For legal reasons, I can't respond to specific matters or speculation.

There is a process to go through which I am, of course, fully cooperating with. But I hope it can be concluded quickly and fairly.

"The speculation, and the recent decision by police to publicly release details of their ongoing enquiries along with my home address has been devastating and has taken a serious toll on my health.

"After address my was published with no warning to my t family, I felt I had no choice but to move away to protect them.