Formal complaint filed over Scottish minister Hepburn assault claim

A formal complaint has been filed with Scottish First Minister John Swinney over an incident in the Holyrood chamber involving government minister Jamie Hepburn and Conservative MSP Douglas Ross. Ross says Hepburn grabbed him, swore at him and that the confrontation occurred as they left the chamber after a clash over the scheduling of a summit on seagulls.

Hepburn has given a different account. He told reporters he placed a hand on Ross's shoulder and used some “choice words” after being challenged by the former Conservative leader. He did not deny touching Ross but described his actions as a measured response to a provocative exchange. Ross, describing the incident after First Minister's Questions, said Hepburn grabbed him and swore “in an aggressive manner” in front of security staff and parliamentary colleagues.

Ross’s letter to Swinney seeks a formal investigation and asks that the matter be referred to the Independent Advisers on the Scottish Ministerial Code. In the letter, Ross says Hepburn’s actions included physically grabbing him, raising his voice and using foul and abusive language, and that there were witnesses. He notes Hepburn has since given an interview in which he did not deny key aspects of Ross’s account and suggests that corroborates crucial facts. Ross contends the conduct falls well below the standards required under the ministerial code and calls for swift and transparent action to protect colleagues from similar treatment.

Quoting sections of the ministerial code, Ross argues that aggressively grabbing a fellow MSP, raising one’s voice in anger and using foul language amount to behavior that is incompatible with ministerial responsibilities. He warns that allowing such conduct could set a dangerous precedent and expresses concern for other lawmakers who might face similar mistreatment if the minister remains in office.

The Scottish government has been approached for comment. After FMQs on Thursday, First Minister Swinney said he had only learned of the accusation in the chamber and would consider the claims. Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone described the allegation as a “very serious” one and stressed that it must be dealt with through the appropriate processes. A Scottish Parliament spokesperson said there is no CCTV footage of the incident.

This is a delicate test for Swinney and his government. While some SNP members may defend Hepburn as having been provoked, the minister’s own admission of laying hands on another lawmaker complicates the balance between collegial expectations and accountability. Internal dynamics within the SNP could influence how the party navigates this episode, with critics arguing that a failure to address such conduct decisively could undermine parliamentary norms.

One government source cited in discussions described the political calculus: sacking everyone who has used the F-word would leave few people standing. Yet the ministerial code requires ministers to treat colleagues with respect and consideration, a standard that Hepburn’s actions appear to have breached, at least in Ross’s account and in his own description of the incident.

The incident raises questions about how swiftly the process will move. The Commissioner for Ethical Standards in Public Life in Scotland is typically involved in such matters, though the exact timeline depends on referrals and the handling by the Independent Advisers. The absence of CCTV footage removes a potential evidentiary element, which could complicate investigations and weigh on public expectations for transparency.

Douglas Ross has shown no intention of letting the matter fade. In his Thursday remarks, he indicated a readiness to pursue formal channels and reiterate his call for accountability. Swinney, for his part, will need to weigh the competing pressures of party loyalty, institutional norms and the public interest in a prompt, clear resolution. The process now hinges on whether Swinney refers the case for independent review and how quickly the relevant bodies can reach a determination that satisfies due process and public scrutiny.

As the Scottish government considers its next steps, observers say the episode could reverberate beyond the hospitalities of Holyrood, touching on how ministers interact with colleagues, handle conflicts in a highly visible political environment, and respond when allegations arise about conduct within the inner circle of government. The outcome could influence not only Hepburn’s standing but also the broader dialogue about standards of behavior in Scottish politics, especially at a moment when parliamentary proceedings are closely watched for signals about accountability and unity.