A TORY MSP has been slammed for backing an "arms dealer propaganda" event for the weapons industry at Holyrood.
Jackson Carlaw, the MSP for Eastwood, took up the sponsorship of a Holyrood reception for the ADS Group – an arms industry body with links to Israel – after its initial sponsor backed out.
Labour’s Paul Sweeney ended his sponsorship of the event after he was approached by The Ferret for a response to a story about the ADS Group’s links with Israel.
A number of companies involved sell weapons parts to Israel from Scotland or have other sites internationally which sell military kit to the Middle Eastern country.
READ MORE: Labour call for immediate ceasefire in major climbdown on Gaza
Israel has been ordered by the International Court of Justice to show restraint in Gaza and the court has refused to toss accusations the state is committing genocide against Palestinians.
Parliamentary receptions are an opportunity for representatives of companies, charities and campaigning organisations to mingle with politicians and their staff.
We told previously how SNP MP Brendan O’Hara also came in for criticism for “cosying up” to arms industry figures at a similar event in Westminster.
The Scottish Greens have demanded Carlaw, formerly the leader of the Scottish Conservatives, cancel the event, due to go ahead on Wednesday.
Ross Greer (above), the party’s external affairs spokesperson said: “When the Labour MSP who originally organised the event was shamed into withdrawing his sponsorship, many of us hoped it was the last we’d hear of this arms dealer propaganda vehicle.
“It’s very disappointing but not surprising that the Conservatives’ Jackson Carlaw has intervened to save it.
“Many of the companies which ADS represents, including some of those on its Scottish committee, have directly armed and supported the Israeli government while it has inflicted a genocide against the people of Gaza.
Greer said Greens MSPs would join protesters seeking to disrupt the event, adding: “At the same time as Westminster is debating a ceasefire the companies who have fuelled and profited from this awful war will be using Scotland’s Parliament for a reception.
“That is why people will be protesting tomorrow and why the Scottish Greens will be joining them.
“There can be no room in our Parliament for war profiteers. Even now, at this late hour, I urge Jackson Carlaw to do the right thing and cancel this awful event.”
READ MORE: Labour MSP joked about BAE Systems shares after Middle East bombing campaign
A spokesperson for the ADS Group said: “The aerospace, space, security and defence sectors, with a turnover of more than £7 billion, contributed £3.2bn in value add to the Scottish economy in 2022.
“In 2022, the ADS sectors directly employed 33,500 people in Scotland, including 1,500 apprentices.
“With £95,000 output per worker, sector productivity in Scotland is 47 per cent higher than the economy average.
“Our sectors are vital contributors to Scottish prosperity and security. We are dedicated to supporting industry, civil society and our armed forces in navigating an increasingly challenging geopolitical environment.
“Our events support our members, their employees and civil society, highlighting the value of aerospace, defence, security and space to everyone’s security.”
The Scottish Conservatives were approached for comment.
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