East Renfrewshire Tory councillor faces party investigation over Facebook post

Stewart Miller apologised earlier this month after constituents criticised his decision to share an image of environmental activist Greta Thunberg, with a caption which stated her generation couldn’t decide “whether you’re a boy, or girl or ‘other’”.

The post sparked accusations of transphobia and LGBT charity Stonewall Scotland said jokes about trans people’s identities are “hurtful”.

A member of the public said the councillor’s apology “falls well short of what is required” and, in a letter to Scottish Conservatives leader Jackson Carlaw, called for Mr Miller to resign from the party or be suspended.

It is understood some constituents intend to file complaints with the Commissioner for Ethical Standards in Public Life. The Commissioner investigates complaints about councillors in Scotland.

There is currently no set timescale on the Scottish Conservatives investigation, which could take several weeks.

A spokesman said: “The party’s disciplinary committee has received this complaint and is investigating.”

The photo of Ms Thunberg was captioned: “My generation will start a revolution.”

Below the image, another caption stated: “Your generation can’t work 40 hours in a week, can’t decided whether you’re a boy, or girl or ‘other’ or can’t eat meat without crying.”

Mr Miller added: “Haven’t heard much fae the wee lassie fae Sweden. Perhaps my coos are not the worst things on the planet after all.”

Following complaints, he said: “Having reflected on the post, I understand the offence it may have caused. It was never my intention to cause upset to any individuals and I apologise unreservedly.

“While I didn’t write those words myself, I do understand that by sharing them the impact can be equally significant.

“I’ve taken on board the words from charities like Stonewall and have resolved to improve my conduct as a councillor in future.”