Sports Minister Maree Todd has branded Douglas Ross’ behaviour “absolutely appalling” after the former Scottish Tory leader refused to leave the chamber during a row with the presiding officer.

Ross was asked to leave the Holyrood chamber after questioning Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone’s impartiality, accusing her of being biased towards the Scottish Conservatives.

After issuing an “unsatisfactory” withdrawal of his comments, Ross was asked to leave by Johnstone, but refused to leave even when security was called.

Todd said: “I thought his behaviour was exceptionally poor. It deserved to be dealt with.

“His behaviour after the Presiding Officer asked him to leave the chamber was absolutely appalling.

“He should be ashamed of himself, his colleagues should be ashamed. Clearly, his leader has no authority over him. His whip has no authority over him.

“I ask you: Douglas Ross himself is a football referee, if he issued a red card on the pitch and the player refused to leave the field, what would happen? It’s outrageous.”

Douglas Ross sitting in the chamber as he is asked to withdraw his comment by the Presiding Officer. © Scottish Parliament TV

Ross is a fully qualified football assistant referee, and recently refereed Celtic’s cup-tie victory over Dundee on 7 February.

The former Scottish Tory leader was banned from the Scottish Parliament on Wednesday, and has since written to Ms Johnstone to apologise.

Reports suggest that he is expected to make a formal apology on Thursday, and could face further sanction if he does not.

RELATED ARTICLESMORE FROM AUTHOR