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The National (Scotland)
The National (Scotland)
National
Gregor Young

Security alert triggered by a toy gun delivered to Holyrood office of Douglas Ross

A SECURITY alert was sparked by a toy gun delivered to the office of the Scottish Tory leader.

Douglas Ross’s Holyrood office was sent the package on Tuesday, which caused Police Scotland to be contacted to carry out a screening.

The toy gun was ordered for Ross’s toddler as a gift and his family intended it to be laser gun. A party spokesperson said it had been delivered to the wrong address.

Labour and Liberal Democrat MSPs have described the incident as “disappointing” and “a schoolboy error” amid Parliament on high alert.

Both the Westminster and Holyrood parliaments have implemented extra security measures in light of threats against politicians.

Labour MSP Monica Lennon said she was glad police and security staff were on hand "but it is disappointing they were put into this position in the first place".

Lennon added: “No one should be ordering toy guns to the Parliament, and I hope Douglas Ross ensures this never happens again. MSPs have a duty to be responsible at all times. I am pleased that security screening is so rigorous and effective, and I pay tribute to the staff.”

Scottish Lib Dem leader Alex Cole Hamilton also criticsed Ross' actions.

He said: “This shows a naive lack of judgement from Douglas Ross. At a time when the security of MSPs and MPs is very much a subject of public interest, this was a schoolboy error and he should reflect on it.”

A Scottish Tory spokesperson responded: “This item was a toy for Douglas’ son. The wrong item was purchased, and it was also delivered to the wrong address. It will be returned. Douglas is grateful to the security team for their action and understanding.”

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