A COUNCILLOR has complained to Scottish local government watchdogs after comments were allegedly made about him during a budget meeting.
Councillor Tommy MacPherson (Independent, South Kintyre) has contacted the Ethical Standards Commission and Scottish Public Services Ombudsman following a heated dispute at the start of Argyll and Bute Council’s annual budget meeting.
Comments made by Councillor Jan Brown (SNP, Mid Argyll), the area’s deputy provost, who was chairing the meeting, were reportedly picked up on microphones before the meeting officially began.
Councillor MacPherson has also called for the role of chief executive Pippa Milne in the reported conversation to be clarified. The local authority meeting took place on Wednesday, February 25.
Councillor MacPherson said on the day of the meeting: “This incident concerns remarks made by the deputy provost to the chief executive in the council chamber, captured on a live microphone before the full council meeting. These were unsupported personal accusations that must be addressed professionally.
“The deputy provost was acting in their presiding role, a position of impartial authority and public trust, where conduct must meet the highest standards.
“I call on the chief executive, who was present during the discussion, to provide a clear factual account, as their evidence is essential to an independent, professional review and to maintaining transparency and public confidence.
“In the interests of impartiality and upholding public trust, I have referred this matter to the Ethical Standards Commissioner and, will in due, if necessary, the Standards Commission for Scotland to ensure independent consideration.”
The following day, Councillor MacPherson added: “These remarks, made in the council chamber and captured on a live microphone before the meeting began, risk damaging my reputation and undermine public confidence in proper governance.
“I believe the role of the chief executive in this exchange must also be clarified. As the council’s most senior officer, they have a statutory duty to uphold neutrality, integrity, and good governance. A clear factual account of their participation is essential and should form part of independent review.
“To ensure proper scrutiny, I have referred the matter specifically in relation to the chief executive’s conduct to the Scottish Public Services Ombudsman.
“I fully respect freedom of thought and expression; however, this concerns the higher standards, impartiality, and accountability required of those entrusted with high office in local government.”
An Argyll and Bute Council spokesperson said: “We understand that Councillor MacPherson has, as is his right, referred this matter to the Ethical Standards Commissioner and the Ombudsman, and the council stands ready to work with them to address this.”
Councillor Brown has been contacted for comment. She said during Wednesday’s meeting that she would speak with Councillor MacPherson following its conclusion.
