A claim that SNP councillors on Perth and Kinross Council only vote along party lines has been described as “absolute rubbish” by a member of the administration.
The assertions by Liberal Democrat councillor for Kinross-shire Willie Robertson brought a swift rebuttal from his nationalist counterparts.
In a letter to The Courier, Mr Robertson said: “There is strong evidence that SNP councillors have no ability to vote with either their conscience or in support of the communities they represent if they are instructed otherwise.
“Whether it be a vote on a road through Perth crematorium grounds, on land designation or even the control of grey squirrels, it appears they must do as they are told.
“When challenged on this the usual reply is ‘I must vote with the party’ or ‘I would be in deep trouble if didn’t vote as instructed’.
“Surely as a local councillor our first duty is to represent our communities and the people therein?”
Councillor Bob Band said the claim was “absolute rubbish”.
“In the eight years I have been a councillor I have never voted in any way contrary to my beliefs,” he said, adding he did not know of any examples of SNP colleagues being coerced over voting.
Councillor John Kellas also dismissed what he described as “serious allegations” against the SNP representatives.
“Those councillors who sit on committees and who are also prepared to take a wider view in the decisions they take can sometimes see their decisions viewed as unpopular,” said Mr Kellas.
“Most of us also accept that their fellow councillors have a right to form their own view. However, Councillor Robertson seems to think he always knows best.
“Just for the record, I agree on one point: people who support one political party often do have similar views, which to many will seem obvious, except, of course, for Lib Dems who often are guilty of saying one thing to get elected or a share of power and another when voting on issues.”