Lib Dem equalities minister Jo Swinson loses out to SNP

Liberal Democrat equalities minister Jo Swinson has lost her seat to the Scottish National Party.

Ms Swinson, who has served as Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Women and Equalities since 2012, was one of a string of senior political figures to lose out to the SNP.

The Lib Dem, who in 2010 had a 28-point lead over the SNP in her East Dunbartonshire constituency, today received 19,926 votes, below the SNP’s John Nicolson on 22,093.

Ms Swinson has spearheaded a government push to specifically tackle homophobia and transphobia in schools, previously announcing a £2 million fund for the issue.

The politician, who has been a stalwart supporter of LGBT rights throughout her time in Parliament, wrote: “School days should be the best days of young people’s lives, but the harsh reality is that not everyone enjoys their time in the classroom.

“For many, memories of being bullied in the playground, in the corridors and in classrooms will stay with them for the rest of their lives. All forms of bullying are utterly unacceptable.

“Homophobic, biphobic and transphobic bullying are particularly pernicious forms of bullying, which are not only upsetting but also leave young people feeling isolated and uncomfortable with who they are.”

Labour’s Shadow Foreign Secretary Douglas Alexander also sensationally lost his seat to the SNP – to a 20-year-old student.

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