SNP minister Jamie Hepburn resigns after assault claim

SNP minister Jamie Hepburn has resigned following an assault claim made by Conservative MSP Douglas Ross. The incident reportedly occurred as Ross was leaving the Holyrood chamber on Wednesday, with Ross alleging that Hepburn grabbed him. The resignation comes after the Scottish Parliament's standards committee launched an investigation into the matter. Hepburn, who served as the Minister for Higher Education and Further Education, Youth Employment and Training, has stepped down from his ministerial position while the investigation is ongoing. The incident has sparked political tensions, with the Conservative party condemning the alleged assault and calling for a thorough investigation. The SNP, on the other hand, has not yet issued a formal statement on the matter. The case highlights the ongoing tensions within the Scottish political landscape and the importance of maintaining professional conduct among elected representatives. The outcome of the investigation will likely have significant implications for both Hepburn and the wider political landscape in Scotland.