A Conservative MSP has apologised for a comment aimed at Nicola Sturgeon during First Minister’s question time as the SNP leader was condemning anti-Irish racism.
The First Minister was responding to a question by Glasgow Labour MSP, Pauline McNeill, about action following the singing of ‘the famine song’ by a mob on Argyle street in Glasgow last weekend, before the Old Firm match.
Sturgeon said: “I take the view anybody who chooses to live in Scotland whether their family has been here for generations, or has come here recently, this is home and we should not allow anybody ever to say…”
READ MORE:Nicola Sturgeon reports Tory MSP over "offensive " remark during anti-Irish racism response
She was stopped mid-sentence by a comment from Tess White, a Tory MSP, who reportedly said “Except if you’re English”.
Ms Sturgeon raised the comment with Alison Johnstone, the Presiding Officer, who saidMSPs should “at all times treat one another with great dignity and respect”.
The comment attracted condemnation from others around the chamber who could be heard voicing their displeasure.
Later the Conservatives released a statement from Tess White.
It said: “My comments during First Minister’s Questions were over the line and I would like to withdraw them and apologise to both the chamber and the First Minister.”
Sturgeon had said: “I’ve just had a comment made from a sedentary position I’m so deeply offended by I do want to take it up with you so the member may want to reflect and withdraw. “It was a comment unacceptable in any context but in the context of what we are discussing I’m deeply aggrieved any member thought it was appropriate to say.”
Before the apology, White’s comment was defended by a Glasgow Conservative councillor on twitter.
Kyle Thornton, tweeted “well done Tess White. Nicola Stands by while her party and their hanger-ons stoke up anglophobia with winks, nudges and sheer ineptitude all in the name of trying to boost independence.”
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