Positive Spin
Scottish Parliament computers have been used multiple times to edit MSPs' Wikipedia pages in order to make them more positive. This includes deleting criticism of Scottish Lib Dem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton, removing a former MSP's "controversies" section entirely, and removing a reference to Jeremy Corbyn from a prominent Scottish Labour politician's page.
Unusual Edits
There have also been bizarre amendments made to entries for the Freemason's Grand Lodge of Scotland, Romanian dictator Nicolae Ceausescu, and a hypothetical Axis victory in World War Two. These edits were traced back to Holyrood using the Parliament's IP address.
Breach of Wikipedia Ban?
It is unclear whether these edits were made by MSPs or their staff, which could potentially breach a Wikipedia ban on people editing pages about themselves. All changes made to Wikipedia are recorded, and deleted information is still available.
MSPs' Pages
Scottish Labour MSP Paul Sweeney's Wikipedia page saw the most edits, with 14 changes made. This included the removal of his appointment as a shadow Scotland minister by former UK leader Jeremy Corbyn, which was described as a "typo fix." Other MSPs whose pages were edited include SNP MSP Bill Kidd, Scottish Lib Dem leader Alex Cole-Hamilton, former Scottish Tory MSP Michelle Ballantyne, SNP Minister for Parliamentary Business George Adam, Liberal Democrat MSP Liam McArthur, Tory MSP Jamie Greene, and Labour MSP Monica Lennon.
Non-Political Changes
Aside from political edits, there were also non-political changes made, such as suggesting that American TV presenter Jerry Springer "absolutely adored Celtic FC." These edits were later reversed.
Similar Incidents in London
In 2015, similar incidents were reported in London, with MPs making edits to their own Wikipedia pages. This included removing references to arrests, fraud, and affairs.
Parties Decline Comment
All major parties in Holyrood were contacted for comment. The Scottish Liberal Democrats declined to say anything, while the SNP accused the Opposition of trying to "airbrush their own controversial history and scandal from the record."
Parliament's Response
A spokesman for the Scottish Parliament stated that all Parliament-issued devices should be used for parliamentary purposes.
Did you miss our previous article…
https://hellofaread.com/politics/police-to-increase-patrols-in-areas-affected-by-anti-social-behavior/
