The Scottish Liberal Democrat leader Alex Cole Hamilton called into Decision Time at The Scottish Parliament from outside the Parliament Bar which is barely a few minutes walk from the chamber.
His appearance on the large TV screen on 23 November 2023 resulted in laughter from his parliamentary colleagues seated in the chamber who realised where he was calling from to make a point of order.
The Scottish Sun first published the story online on Sunday evening and carry it on their front page today. Mr Cole-Hamilton told the paper that he had apologised to Deputy Presiding Officer for not arriving in the Chamber in time to vote in person.
He said: “I take the proceedings of Parliament very seriously. My voting record speaks for itself in casting my ballot every time that I possibly can. MSPs regularly vote remotely and on this occasion, fewer than a third were present to vote in person.
“After decision time, I immediately sought out the deputy presiding officer to apologise for not arriving at the chamber in time.”
Mr Cole Hamilton appeared on screen with his shirt unbuttoned and can be seen constantly trying to smooth his hair while on the call.
The Edinburgh Reporter explained earlier this year that the Scottish Liberal Democrat leader was under pressure after convening an event during lockdown which broke Covid restrictions. Read more here.
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