A LABOUR councillor has stunned his colleagues after he joined a full council meeting remotely while driving his car.
North Ayrshire councillor Jim Montgomerie sparked condemnation from fellow local politicians after he appeared at a meeting via a video link while behind the wheel of a vehicle.
Montgomerie, who represents Saltcoats and Stevenston, had initially joined the call from his home for the first part of the local authority’s full council meeting in June.
However, more than two and a half hours into the meeting, Montgomerie appeared on the council TV screen behind the wheel of his car with his phone seemingly perched on the dashboard.
The Labour councillors' brazen decision to join while driving prompted head shakes from his colleagues before questions were raised about his ability to participate in the meeting.
Council leader Tony Gurney interrupted proceedings to say: “We allow people to attend remotely on the basis that they concentrate on the proceedings of the council.
“And I do wonder whether being on the road and having to concentrate on driving would perhaps mar that in any respect.”
Provost Anthea Dickson added: “I don't want to be seen to be encouraging this when you are not supposed to use your mobile phone and would get prosecuted by the police.”
Montgomerie replied: “It's hands-free…”
The Provost continued: “I know it is hands-free. I feel most uncomfortable endorsing this.
“I would prefer you rejoin once you are in a location and stable and not driving.”
The Labour councillor replied: “I am stable just now - and I am staying online.”
Councillor Gurney said: “Provost, I am not entirely sure that I am happy with that answer.
“We are on questions now, but we will shortly be on motions. I do wonder whether that is appropriate.”
Provost Dickson said: “I think we have given our warning and our suggestion to the member and his actions will stand for himself.”
Montgomerie responded: “Thank you, Provost.”
The Provost replied frostily: “I don't know what you're thanking me for.”
The meeting then continued as planned.
The Driver and Vehicle Licensing Agency (DVLA) states that although it is not strictly illegal to be on a video call whilst driving, if police stop a driver and deem that they are distracted, they can prosecute.
It says: “You must stay in full control of your vehicle at all times. The police can stop you if they think you’re not in control because you’re distracted and you can be prosecuted."
