Labour MSP Colin Smyth charged over indecent images

A Scottish Labour MSP has been arrested and charged in connection with possession of indecent images. Colin Smyth, who represents South Scotland, was arrested on Tuesday and is due to appear in court at a later date.

He was first elected as an MSP in 2016 and returned to Holyrood again at the 2021 election. Smyth has lost the party whip and the Scottish Parliament website now lists him as an Independent.

A spokesperson for Police Scotland said: "On Tuesday, August 5, 2025, officers executed a warrant at a property on Marchfield Avenue, Dumfries.

"A 52-year-old man was arrested and charged in connection with possession of indecent images. He is due to appear at Dumfries Sheriff Court at a later date."

A spokesman for Scottish Labour said: "The whip has been removed from Colin Smyth MSP, pending an investigation.

"We cannot comment further on this matter while the investigation is ongoing."

It is understood the MSP was administratively suspended by Labour after the party became aware of the police investigation.