Monica Lennon says 'hit job' bullying allegations have left her 'distressed'

Monica Lennon has said she has been left “distressed” by allegations she bullied Scottish Labour staffers, adding the claims are “untrue”.

The Labour MSP returned to parliament in July after former leader Anas Sarwar stood down to work as a trade minister for Andy Burnham.

Following her reappointment as an MSP, she made a bid to become Scottish Labour leader, but failed to secure enough nominations.

On Wednesday, The Scotsman reported Lennon was facing allegations of bullying from four former staff members.

Lennon told STV News the anonymous allegations are “hit jobs”.

She said the allegations were first put to her during the Scottish Labour leadership campaign and said the claims were “untrue”.

Scottish Labour leader Michael Marra has said no complaints have been made to the party about Lennon.

Lennon told STV News: “These are distressing allegations that are serious and I think as well, knowing that there are clear policies and procedures that anyone who has legitimate concerns, and I think when people make vexatious complaints or do hit jobs in the media, then that undermines genuine concerns and cases.

“It’s reassuring again to hear today from both Scottish Labour and the Parliament that there have been no complaints or formal allegations, which is what I’ve always believed.

“This is a story that was first put to me during the summer, during the leadership contest. And I felt we had dealt with it based on the truth and honesty.

“It’s come back, nothing’s changed, you know, it’s untrue. As you can see, I’m a bit distressed by it, but I’ll answer people’s questions as best I can.”