Full Breakdown
SNP MSP Collette Stevenson cites illness after charity-status gaffe sparks online abuse
By Drooid · · How we work
The incident and immediate fallout
During a Transport Committee session earlier this month, SNP Member of the Scottish Parliament Collette Stevenson asked whether Transport Scotland was a registered charity. Transport Scotland director Graeme Cook responded that the body is a national agency within the Scottish Government, not a charity. The question attracted widespread ridicule on social media, with many users mocking the perceived lack of knowledge. Stevenson later described the online reaction as “disproportionate abuse” and characterized it as misogynistic bullying directed at her.
Explanation from Stevenson and Transport Scotland
Stevenson, 57, who has represented East Kilbride since the 2021 election, said she was experiencing a “momentary lapse” caused by the early stages of a severe chest infection that disrupted her sleep and concentration. She added that an asthma flare-up prompted medical advice to take a week off from parliamentary duties to recover. Graeme Cook clarified that Transport Scotland is a non-departmental government body, with its staff already part of the civil service, and therefore does not hold charitable status.
Online reaction and claims of misogyny
Social-media commentary framed the exchange as evidence that some SNP politicians are out of touch with their portfolios. Stevenson argued that the intensity of the mockery reflected a “toxic culture” that women in politics often endure, labeling the abuse as misogynistic. She emphasized that the criticism was disproportionate to the mistake, which she described as an honest error.
Political and personal response
In a statement, Stevenson thanked friends, colleagues, and constituents for their support, noting that the encouragement helped her cope with the backlash. She reaffirmed her commitment to the East Kilbride rail enhancement and electrification project and said her focus remains on delivering for her community.
Context and significance
The episode occurred amid broader scrutiny of Transport Scotland’s rail service performance, a topic regularly examined by the committee. The incident highlights the pressures faced by elected officials during committee hearings and underscores ongoing concerns about gender-based harassment in political discourse.
