Swinney swerves will of parliament on learning disabilities law

Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP has warned that John Swinney must respect the will of parliament after the First Minister failed to say whether he would bring back a law protecting those with learning disabilities, autism and neurodivergence, despite MSPs voting to demand it be revived.

On Wednesday, Scottish Liberal Democrats successfully persuaded parliament to vote for introducing the Learning Disabilities, Autism and Neurodivergence Bill.

The bill was scrapped by the Scottish Government in September. It had been an SNP manifesto promise and it was included in their Programme for Government for 2021-22.

Under questioning from Mr Cole-Hamilton at Holyrood today, the First Minister failed to give an answer on whether he would respect the will of parliament and bring back the legislation.

Speaking after the exchange, Alex Cole-Hamilton MSP said:

“This was the first big defeat of the government in this new parliament.

“When else have you seen Green, Reform, Labour and Conservative MSPs all unite behind an issue?

“Many of those who responded to the consultation on this bill feel utterly betrayed by the Scottish Government.

“Hundreds of individuals and organisations were invited to share their stories over five years, only to be told that, in the end, the government wasn’t going to pass new law after all.

“If John Swinney is serious about respecting the democratic process of parliament and honouring his commitment to everyone affected by this bill, he will do the right thing and introduce this law. Scotland must do better for those with learning disabilities, autism and neurodivergence.”