Colin Smyth MSP appears in court on child abuse images charge

South Scotland MSP Colin Smyth has today appeared in court charged with possessing indecent images of children and voyeurism.

Smyth appeared in private at Dumfries Sheriff Court, where he made no plea or declaration.

The 52-year-old was arrested during summer recess. He was suspended by Scottish Labour when the news became public and has since been an independent politician.

Now in his second term at Holyrood, Smyth’s previous roles include general secretary of Scottish Labour.

During the court appearance he faced a charge under the Sexual Offences (Scotland) Act covering voyeurism, and another on possession of indecent images of children.

He was granted bail and the case was continued, pending further examination.

A Crown Office spokesperson said: “These matters are active under the Contempt of Court Act 1981.

“The provisions of this Act protect the integrity of proceedings, preserve access to justice for victims and secure the rights of people accused of crime.

“Anyone publishing items about active cases is advised to exercise caution as material must not be commentary or analysis of evidence, witnesses or accused.

“Contempt of court carries penalties of up to two years in prison and/or an unlimited fine.”