A councillor from the Scottish Liberal Democrats has been suspended from the party for a period of “up to six months” following a complaint related to a breach of the councillor’s code of conduct. Michael Baird, who represents North, West and Central Sutherland, previously received a two-month suspension from attending full council meetings due to the same incident.
The Standards Commission for Scotland panel determined that Baird failed to declare a non-financial interest during a meeting of the Sutherland County Committee on January 23, 2024. This ruling marked the second disciplinary action against him within a span of just over six months.
The recent suspension by the Scottish Liberal Democrats stems from a complaint that aligns with the findings of the commission’s panel. As a result, Baird will serve as an independent councillor while the investigation unfolds. A spokesperson for the Scottish Liberal Democrats stated, “As a result of a complaint made to the Liberal Democrats, Michael Baird has been suspended from the party for up to six months while an investigation takes place.”
This situation underscores the party’s commitment to maintaining ethical standards among its members. The implications of the suspension may extend beyond Baird’s political future, potentially impacting the party’s reputation in the Highland region.
The ongoing investigation is expected to examine the circumstances surrounding the alleged breach of conduct and determine any further actions needed. The outcome could influence not only Baird’s position but also the public’s perception of the Scottish Liberal Democrats as they navigate this incident.
As this story develops, the focus remains on ensuring accountability and transparency within local governance, particularly in light of the recent findings from the Standards Commission.
