A former SNP MSP who stepped down as a minister from Nicola Sturgeon's government amid a row over sleazy texts has taken up a new job focusing on autism.
Mark McDonald, MSP for Aberdeen Donside from 2013 to 2021, has take up a role as Media and Policy Officer at charity Scottish Autism.
The married father-of-two, whose son has autism, quit as Minister for Childcare and Early Years in November 2017 following reports he sent inappropriate messages to a woman.
McDonald was then suspended by the SNP while an internal probe was carried out. He eventually quit the party in March and returned to sit as an independent MSP.
The 42-year-old took to social media on Monday to reveal his new role posting remarks he made during his last speech in the Scottish Parliament.
He said: "I made the comments below in my final parliamentary speech. I’m delighted that I’ll be awareness raising and campaigning around autism issues as I start my new role as Media & Policy Officer with @scottishautism today.
"Can’t wait to meet and learn from my new colleagues."
In his last parliamentary speech, he said: "There have been many gains in that time, such as the autism-friendly social experiences and the improvement of the accessibility of public buildings for young people with autism, including this very parliament building.
"There have been many gains in support for carers and the campaign for changes places toilets. Where and when I can after I have left this place, I will continue to advocate on those issues, because I will have a lifelong interest in them."
An SNP investigation in 2018 revealed that three women had complained about McDonald. The probe substantiated two of the claims.
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