Collette Stevenson: Transport Scotland ‘lapse’ was brought on by illness

Collette Stevenson MSP has spoken out about her “momentary lapse” on the status of Transport Scotland.

The East Kilbride MSP, who sits on the transport committee, asked Transport Scotland director Graeme Cook if the body – which is part of the Scottish Government – was a registered charity.

In a Facebook post, she said she had suffered a lapse in concentration due to a chest infection and lack of sleep.

She said she is now on sick leave following medical advice.

Stevenson said: “During a recent committee evidence session, I experienced a momentary lapse in my questioning regarding the status of Transport Scotland.

“I was in the early stages of a severe chest infection, which affected my sleep and, in turn, my concentration.

“On medical advice, and following a flare up of asthma, I have taken this week off from parliament to recuperate and allow the various medications to work, so I can focus on making a full recovery.”

The MSP said that she had been subjected to “misogynistic bullying” online following the committee question.

She said: “Whilst robust scrutiny is a necessary part of public life, the disproportionate abuse, mockery, and misogynistic bullying directed at me online following an honest mistake demonstrates the toxic culture women in politics still have to endure far too often.”