Sheridan Guilty of Helping Blind Woman

7th November 2001
The Scottish Parliament Standards Committee today ruled that Tommy Sheridan had breached parliamentary standards by intervening in the case of Dalkeith SSP member Vicky Haylott (20) who had faced eviction from her council home. Sheridan had sought to assist the woman, but had not consulted with her constituency MSP first. Haylott, who is blind, was issued with an eviction notice after her ex-partner gained a court order. The man had beaten Vicky before they split up.

The situation escalated when Sheriff's Officers arrived early one morning and removed Vicky Haylott, dragging her out of the premises wearing only a duvet. This occurred the day before Haylott was due to begin the process of moving into her new home. The process was expected to take some time as assistance was needed for Vicky to become reorientated to her new environment.

Vicky was at the Scottish Parliament today, and attempted to speak in Tommy Sheridan's defence. It is presumed that she would explain that her constituency MSP Rhona Brankin appeared to be doing nothing about her case. The meeting was suspended while Parliament security guards removed Vicky from Committee Room 3 where the hearing was held.

The Committee found Sheridan guilty of the charge, but imposed no sanction.

Afterwards Vicky spoke of her disgust at the hearing's finding.

Rhona Brankin MSP was delighted with the verdict.

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