Maggie Chapman retains committee position after Tory removal bid fails

Green MSP Maggie Chapman has retained her position as deputy convener of the Scottish Parliament's equalities committee after narrowly surviving a vote to remove her, which was prompted by her strong criticism of a Supreme Court ruling defining 'woman' by biological sex. Chapman had accused the court of 'bigotry, prejudice and hatred' at a transgender rights rally, remarks that were widely condemned by figures in Scotland's legal profession and described as incompatible with her committee role. Tory MSP Tess White led the unsuccessful motion for her removal, calling Chapman's comments 'dangerous' and a 'totally unjustified attack on the rule of law.' Despite calls for an apology, Chapman stood by her statements, emphasizing her role in representing trans people and asserting her respect for the judiciary's independence. The vote to remove her was rejected 4–3, with SNP members siding with Chapman despite their party leader, First Minister John Swinney, also condemning her remarks. The controversy highlights ongoing tensions in Scottish politics over trans rights and judicial impartiality.