Arbroath & Broughty Ferry MP Lara Bird Sworn In After Commons Oath Dispute

Lara Bird, the Scottish National Party's newly elected Member of Parliament for Arbroath & Broughty Ferry, has formally completed her parliamentary oath. This follows a period of public discussion after her initial attempt to take the oath.

Reports indicate that during her swearing-in, Ms Bird appeared to have her fingers crossed, a gesture widely interpreted as negating the sincerity of the oath. Her subsequent social media activity, including a post stating 'fingers crossed behind my back,' further fuelled this perception, prompting calls for clarity on her commitment to the parliamentary process.

Under parliamentary rules, MPs must swear an oath or make an affirmation to either the King or a higher power. Failure to do so precludes them from taking their seat, voting, or receiving a salary. Ms Bird has now affirmed her dedication to 'serve the people' of her constituency, enabling her full participation in parliamentary duties.