The Dunfermline-based manager of Fife Women’s Aid has told The Courier it would be “utterly deplorable” for shamed MSP Bill Walker to continue as an MSP for West Fife.
In an exclusive interview with The Courier, Ruth Thomson, who helps victims of domestic abuse on a daily basis, said her organisation “strongly opposes” any suggestion the serial abuser should be allowed to remain as an elected member.
She spoke out after the Dunfermline parliamentary representative was found guilty of committing 24 offences against his three ex-wives and a stepdaughter between 1967 and 1995.
Ms Thomson said: “For the past 12 years Scotland has led the way in providing a clear political message that domestic abuse, or any form of gender based violence, is unacceptable under any circumstances.
“We know that one in four women will experience domestic abuse in their lifetime and that there is no socio-economic, age or cultural barrier to abuse.
“Given this backdrop, it is particularly deplorable that a perpetrator of abuse should believe that he is fit to represent the people of West Fife in the Scottish Parliament.
“What message does that send to the thousands of victims of abuse here in Fife, or indeed, to those men who continue to perpetuate this insidious crime?
“Mr Walker has been convicted as a serial abuser, with a string of serious offences against four different females. We strongly oppose any suggestion that he be allowed to remain as an elected MSP for Fife.”
The Fife Women’s Aid general manager said there were 4,646 reported incidents of domestic abuse in Fife between 2012 and 2013, yet said it was known these reported figures are only the “tip of the iceberg”.
She added: “Unlike most other crimes, domestic abuse takes place in the context of an intimate and trusting relationship and is commonly accompanied by a campaign of emotional and mental exploitation.
“There are high incidences of repeat victimisation and a significant proportion of perpetrators are serial offenders. Mr Walker’s case is, unfortunately, not unique.
“Many women are unable to report abuse, for a variety of reasons and it is extremely difficult to break free from this cycle. The prospect of a court case is also daunting and traumatic.
“It should not be underestimated how difficult it has been for the three women and a stepdaughter in this case to have presented evidence and relived their experiences.
“The best thing that can come out of this horrific situation is that a zero tolerance message is reinforced both by sentencing and at Scottish Parliament level.
“There can be nowhere in society where domestic abuse is accepted or condoned.
“We are all committed to stopping domestic abuse and supporting the thousands of women, children and young people affected. We would urge women to seek help if they are experiencing it.”
The Fife Women’s Aid freephone helpline is 0808 802 5555.