Berwickshire councillor's plea for privacy when out with his children
The children of political representatives should be “off limits” to members of the public with grievances, a Scottish Borders councillor has warned.
East Berwickshire Independent elected member James Anderson has issued a plea after he was approached by an angry constituent while out and about with his children.
The individual raised a contentious issue and began photographing and videoing the councillor and his family.
It was an action that crossed a barrier for Cllr Anderson, who has now appealed for the public to exercise “common sense”.
He said: “The vast majority of people I meet when I’m out and about are absolutely respectful.
“Plenty of people will say hello, have a quick chat or mention something they want me to look at, and I’ve never had an issue with that. I live locally, people know me, and that comes with the job. But there does have to be a boundary.
“When I’m out with my children, particularly if I make it clear that I’m having family time and don’t want to discuss council business, I’d really appreciate that being respected.
“I’m very accessible in my role as a councillor. People can message me, email me, phone me, come to a surgery or arrange to meet me. I’m quite happy to have difficult conversations as well as easy ones.
“What I don’t think is fair is bringing a grievance into my family life, particularly in front of my children, and continuing to push for a confrontation after I’ve politely said I don’t want to engage.
“I also think it’s completely unacceptable to start taking photographs or videos of me and my children while we’re simply out shopping or going about our private family life.
“Whatever issue someone may have with me as a councillor, my children should not be dragged into it or made to feel uncomfortable because of the position I hold.”
Cllr Anderson said his issue was not with the many people who stop him respectfully for a chat.
He added: “I’m simply asking for a little common sense and understanding. If I’m clearly with my family and say, ‘can we deal with this another time?’, please respect that.
“When I’m working I’m your councillor and I’m available.
“When I’m spending time with my children I just need to be their dad.”