Councillor delays meeting over driving row

A North Ayrshire Council meeting was briefly delayed yesterday after a councillor joined remotely while appearing to drive his car.

Council leader Tony Gurney raised a point of order after noticing Labour’s Jim Montgomerie attending the hybrid meeting from behind the wheel.

Provost Anthea Dickson said she was uncomfortable with the situation, adding that the council should not be seen to encourage participation while driving.

Councillor Montgomerie said he was using a hands-free device but was asked to rejoin the meeting once he had stopped in a safe location.

A council spokesperson said all elected members are aware of the procedures and expectations for attending hybrid meetings.