Scottish Labour MSP Colin Smyth has been charged in connection with the alleged possession of indecent images of children.

The 52-year-old politician, who has represented South Scotland for almost a decade, has been suspended by his party and is now listed on the Scottish parliament website as an independent.

He is due to appear at Dumfries Sheriff Court at a later date, the BBC reports.

In a statement, Smyth said: "These events have come as a shock and this is a deeply stressful time.

"I am obviously cooperating fully with any inquiries and hope the matter can be resolved quickly.

"I am not able to comment further at this stage."

A Labour spokesperson said: "The whip has been removed from Colin Smyth MSP, pending an investigation.

"We cannot comment further on this matter while the investigation is ongoing."

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