New SNP MP says duty is to ‘sovereign people of Scotland’ during swearing in

Two new Scottish MPs have been sworn in at the House of Commons, as a new MP for the Scottish National Party said her allegiance would be to the “sovereign people of Scotland” ahead of the King.

Lara Bird, who won in Arbroath and Broughty Ferry for the SNP, was first to take the oath of allegiance after her victory in last Thursday’s by-election. She had a majority of more than 5,000 votes over the Conservatives, who finished in second place.

She was first to take the oath in Parliament on Monday, ahead of Douglas Lumsden and Andy Burnham. She appeared to cross her fingers as she swore allegiance to the crown.

In taking her oath, Ms Bird said: “I take this oath only so that I can serve the people of Arbroath and Broughty Ferry. My first allegiance is, and always will be, the sovereign people of Scotland.”

She then held up her right hand, and appeared to cross her fingers as she said: “I do swear that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to his Majesty King Charles, his heirs and successors, according to the law, so help me God.”

She was accompanied by fellow SNP colleagues Kirsty Blackman (Aberdeen North) and Chris Law (Dundee Central).

Ms Bird was followed by Mr Lumsden, who won for the Conservative Party in Aberdeen South, unseating the SNP. The election was closely fought, but the Conservative Party’s policy on oil and energy meant it secured a 6,000 majority over former SNP MP Richard Thomson.

Mr Lumsden was accompanied by Harriet Cross (Gordon and Buchan) and shadow Scotland secretary Andrew Bowie as he approached the table of the House and despatch boxes to cheers from the Tory benches. He held a bible in his right hand as he read the traditional religious oath.

He said: “I swear by almighty God that I will be faithful and bear true allegiance to his Majesty King Charles, his heirs and successors, according to law, so help me God.”