SNP delegates will today debate a motion to give members more protection from social media abuse after a string of recent public party rows.
A resolution to be debated by party members, and which is not open to the press, underlines that the SNP’s code of conduct and disciplinary procedures are to “encourage respect for fellow members” and that this principle applies to online discourse.
Under the heading “Online Conduct: Procedures for Good Guidance and Support”, the resolution also calls on the party to create procedures for managing and supporting those who are victims of abuse.
It says: “Conference believes there is often a lack of recognition of the significant impact of online abuse.
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“Conference resolves to promote good behaviour from all SNP members across all social media platforms – on our behaviour with other members and beyond.”
The resolution goes on to ask the party’s ruling body, the National Executive Committee, for a working group to be established to provide advice and guidance on what constitutes online abuse and for help for victims.
It comes amid prolonged and intense online rows often but not exclusively over gender recognition reform.
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Other policy ideas to be debated today include proposing regional vaccine manufacturing hubs to help Scotland quickly respond to the need for new jags in any future pandemic.
A further motion on the personal safety of elected representatives will also be debated. The resolution has been lodged in the wake of the death of Tory MP Sir David Amess and comes amid growing concerns over politicians’ safety.
The third day of the online conference will also see delegates debate a motion calling for higher pay for Scotland’s councillors and one supporting the establishment of a Scottish Central Bank run by a Scottish Treasury after a Yes vote in a second independence referendum.
It backs an “enabling bill” to be drafted ahead of that referendum which First Minister Nicola Sturgeon wants to hold by the end of 2023 on the condition the pandemic has sufficiently passed.
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