Reform Scotland’s deputy leader has condemned an attack on a protester at the party’s conference after audience members turned on a woman who disrupted the event.
Police have since appealed for the woman to come forward following the incident, which has cast a shadow over the gathering and raised serious questions about the conduct of those inside the venue.
The protester had interrupted proceedings at the conference when members of the audience reportedly assaulted her. The scenes caused immediate controversy, with footage and accounts of the incident spreading quickly and drawing widespread criticism.
Reform Scotland’s deputy leader moved to distance the party from the violence, making clear that physical attacks on protesters are completely unacceptable regardless of the circumstances. The condemnation came as pressure mounted on the party to respond clearly and firmly to what had happened.
Police confirmed they are aware of the incident and are urging the woman who was assaulted to get in touch with them so they can look into the matter properly. Officers have not yet confirmed whether any arrests have been made or whether a formal complaint has been received.
The incident has sparked a wider conversation about the treatment of protesters at political events in Scotland, and whether enough is being done to ensure demonstrations remain safe for everyone involved. Critics of Reform have pointed to the attack as evidence of a troubling culture within the party’s support base, while the party itself has insisted the behaviour does not reflect its values.
Reform Scotland has been working to build its profile north of the border, positioning itself as an alternative to the mainstream parties at Holyrood. The conference was intended to be a platform to push that message further, but the assault on the protester has dominated the headlines instead.
The party’s response will likely be scrutinised closely in the coming days, with many watching to see whether further action is taken against those involved in the attack.