A former MEP has quit as the joint leader of a group set up by the SNP Government to consider the future of the country.
David Martin, who was his party’s longest serving parliamentarian, has resigned as co-convener of the Citizens’ Assembly for unexplained “personal reasons”.
The Assembly is a body of 100 citizens who have been tasked with addressing the challenges Scotland faces in the twenty first century.
It was set up along the lines of a similar group in Ireland, which ultimately led to that country’s abortion laws being changed.
Since being established, the Assembly has faced criticisms over its cost and whether it is a battering ram for independence .
SNP MP Joanna Cherry said earlier this year the Assembly was the “perfect” way to move Scotland towards independence, a claim that angered an adviser to the body.
Martin, who was a Labour MEP between 1984 and 2019, was announced by SNP Cabinet Secretary Mike Russell as its co-chair.
The ex-MEP said at the time: “I am delighted to have the opportunity to co-chair Scotland’s first Citizens’ Assembly. I am greatly looking forward to hearing directly from the members of the Assembly on how they want to shape our country.”
However, the Government has confirmed Martin’s decision to quit after a short spell in the post.
Russell said: “David Martin has played an important role in successfully establishing the Citizens’ Assembly of Scotland and bringing it to a point where it is now considering some of the major issues facing Scotland.
“For personal reasons, he is unable to continue as a Convener and the Assembly will meet over the coming months under the convenership of Kate Wimpress, delivering its report to the Scottish Government next Spring.
"I would like to thank David for his efforts and wish him well for the future.”
Martin could not be reached for comment.
