Aberdeen Lord Provost 'systematic bullying' complaint lodged by councillor
- Published
David Cameron is Aberdeen's Lord Provost
An Aberdeen councillor has made a complaint to the Ethical Standards Commissioner accusing the city's Lord Provost of bullying, BBC Scotland News has learned.
Independent Jennifer Stewart alleges the SNP's David Cameron has "systematically bullied" her within the council chamber.
She also described "aggressive", "sexist" and "misogynistic" behaviour.
Mr Cameron said he refuted the allegations.
Mrs Stewart has also accused the Lord Provost of not allowing "fair and open debate".
Jennifer Stewart said the complaint was a last resort
Responding to questions from BBC Scotland, Mrs Stewart said she had "no other option" but to lodge the complaint.
"Over last 18 months, I would say he's systematically bullied me in the chamber, treated me in a sexist way, aggressive, verbally shouting telling me to sit down, not allowing fair and open debate.
"I would say with all his behaviour put together, in my view, I would describe him as a misogynist."
She described it as a "last resort" to make the complaint.
"I've been elected to serve my constituents for five years," she said. "We're only 18 months into that. I'm not going anywhere.
"But I would like to be able to wake up and feel happy enough to serve my constituents. I want to create an environment that is good to work in and also forage the way through for other women."
Mr Cameron was appointed the civic head of the city last year following the council elections in May.
He said in a statement: "I refute Councillor Mrs Stewart's allegations.
"I will not comment further as it appears she has referred this to the Ethical Standards Commissioner.
"It will be for the Commissioner to determine whether any action is required."
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- Published12 October 2023
