Holyrood restricts media access to politicians after FMQs

A row has broken out at Holyrood after it was announced journalists will have restricted access to politicians after First Minister's Questions. Scottish parliament officials set out a designated area for journalists on Thursday ahead of the opposition party leaders' questions to John Swinney. The parliamentary bureau said it had decided to impose the designated spot for the media "following feedback from a range of building users and discussions with all parties". But the decision has sparked a transparency row and has been condemned by some opposition parties. "It is a matter for the Scottish Parliament Corporate Body, not for me," John Swinney responded when asked about whether he agreed with the restrictions. Reporters often question, or "doorstep" MSPs, including the party leaders, just outside the chamber after FMQs. Journalists attempted to question Presiding Officer Kenneth Gibson about the decision to restrict the media to the pen, but he refused to stop and answer questions. Approaching the media after FMQs, Scottish Conservatives leader Russell Findlay - who is a former journalist - removed one of the cords to break the barrier. Conservative MSP Craig Hoy described the m

Jun 18, 2026 → Jun 18, 2026