Full Breakdown
Former Far-Right Activist Hired to Reform Scotland MSP’s Office
6/3/2026, 10:54:37 PM
White’s Appointment
In early 2024, John White, a Scottish activist linked to France’s far-right National Rally, was appointed to a communications and research role in Glasgow MSP Thomas Kerr’s Holyrood office (Reform Scotland). Kerr’s office confirmed the hire.
Campaign Background
During the 2024 European election campaign, White travelled to France, campaigned for Marine Le Pen’s National Rally, and posted a selfie with party president Jordan Bardella. He praised a “surge of people wanting to put their own nations first” and backed a Glasgow rally with far-right activist Tommy Robinson.
Key Figures
Key actors include John White (former Scottish Tory, far-right activist), Glasgow MSP Thomas Kerr (Reform Scotland), SNP MSP Stuart McMillan, an unnamed Tory source, and Jordan Bardella (National Rally youth president) featured in White’s posts.
Official Statements
Kerr said White would handle communications and research, calling him a “great guy”. The SNP, via McMillan, warned the hire opens Holyrood to far-right influence and said such hate has no place in Scotland. A Tory source claimed Reform “scraped the bottom of the barrel”.
Opposition Criticism
Critics noted White’s support for extremist policies, such as ending birthright citizenship and closing mosques, arguing the hire threatens community cohesion. His link to Tommy Robinson amplified alarm, and the SNP framed the appointment as a challenge to Scotland’s anti-extremism agenda.
Political Impact
The episode raises questions about vetting standards for political staff and the risk of far-right narratives gaining a foothold in Holyrood. Reform Scotland faces scrutiny, while the SNP uses the controversy to reinforce its anti-extremism platform ahead of elections.
Reporting Gaps
Reform Scotland has offered no comment beyond Kerr’s brief remark. White has not responded publicly. The hiring process, salary and exact duties remain undisclosed, creating a transparency gap.
Verbatim Quotes
- “ ? Kerr confirmed the hire: “I think he’s a great guy.” — Thomas Kerr, MSP (Reform Scotland)
- “Reform must be really desperate if this is the type of person they’re bringing into the fold. Talk about scraping the bottom of the barrel.” — Unnamed Tory source
- “Nigel Farage could not care less about Scotland and his collection of far-right campaigners in Holyrood is exactly why the SNP has locked them out of any influence.” — Stuart McMillan, SNP MSP
- “It’s great to see a surge of people wanting to put their own nations first and a rise for the right in Europe. Maybe countries outwith can learn some lessons! Special congratulations to @J_Bardella.” — John White, Twitter (2024)
Next Steps
Analysts note Kerr is being positioned as a potential successor to Reform leader Malcolm Offord. Ongoing media scrutiny may prompt formal inquiries, and opposition parties have signalled intent to raise the issue in future parliamentary debates.
