New Glasgow MSP faces standards hearing over code of conduct

The Standards Commission of Scotland is set to decide whether Colm Merrick, SNP, who was elected to represent Glasgow Anniesland last week, has breached the councillors’ code of conduct.

Mr Merrick has been serving as an East Renfrewshire councillor since 2017, representing the Giffnock and Thornliebank ward. 

The complaint relates to a delay in “registering paid and unpaid work” while in this role, the Standards Commission has said.

Colm Merrick (Image: Colin Mearns)

Mr Merrick’s register of interests on the East Renfrewshire Council website currently shows he worked part-time in the office of Kirsten Oswald, when she was an MP, between August 2022 and November 2024.

It adds he worked part-time in the office of Bob Doris MSP in May and June 2025, and has spent time as an unpaid intern for Bill Kidd, the former Anniesland MSP.

A spokesperson for East Renfrewshire Council said: “Councillors must register their interests, including financial, property, and other roles, within 30 days of becoming a councillor.

“Changes to these interests must be declared within one month of the change occurring.”

The hearing is scheduled to take place on Tuesday, July 7.

Complaints against elected members are investigated by the Ethical Standards Commissioner, Ian Bruce, who reports to the Standards Commission.

The Commission then decides whether to hold a hearing to determine whether the code has been contravened. 

When a breach of the code is found, the Commission will then decide on a sanction. These include censure, suspension and disqualification.

The Commissioner will present evidence at the hearing and councillors are entitled to attend or be represented. They can also present evidence and both parties can call witnesses.

Mr Merrick has been approached for comment.