Holyrood’s security has come under intense scrutiny after revelations that a former MSP allegedly installed a hidden camera in a parliamentary toilet — one reportedly used by King Charles during a previous visit.

Presiding Officer Alison Johnstone has ordered “enhanced additional checks” across the Scottish Parliament building following the shocking allegations. The claims center around Colin Smyth, a former Labour MSP, who has been charged in connection with placing a covert recording device inside a restricted-access lavatory near the debating chamber.

According to reports, the small two-cubicle toilet is off-limits to the public but frequently used by senior politicians and visiting dignitaries, including the King. Though it remains unconfirmed whether King Charles used the specific stall in question, parliamentary sources told the media that he was invited to use the lavatory during a past visit to Holyrood.

The camera was allegedly hidden in the ceiling space above the stalls—a complex area of pipes, ducts, and wiring—making detection difficult. While a full sweep conducted by Police Scotland found no active covert devices, the incident has sparked widespread unease among MSPs and staff.

“There’s a massive sense of shock,” one MSP told the press. “People are dreading being contacted by the police about potential footage.”

Another parliamentary staffer described the situation as “deeply unsettling.”

Smyth, a 52-year-old father of two and former Modern Studies teacher, was suspended by Scottish Labour last week after being charged with possession of indecent images, in addition to the spy camera allegations. Police searched his home in Dumfries on August 5, confiscating a mobile phone and computer as part of the investigation.

In a public statement, Smyth strongly denied the allegations, calling them “an utter shock” and criticizing Police Scotland for what he claims was a breach of his privacy and a detrimental impact on his mental health.

“The recent decision by the police to publicly release details of their inquiries along with my home address has been devastating,” Smyth said. “I’ve had to move out to protect my family, losing access to NHS support I was receiving.”

The Scottish Parliament’s cross-party management body has deactivated Smyth’s access pass and offered confidential support services to staff and MSPs affected by the news. A letter sent by Alison Johnstone and Parliament CEO David McGill assured Holyrood staff that no covert devices were currently found but acknowledged the situation would cause “unease and anxiety.”

“Our priority is your safety and welfare,” the letter read. “Enhanced security sweeps will continue going forward.”

Police Scotland confirmed that a 52-year-old man had been charged and would appear at Dumfries Sheriff Court at a later date. The Crown Office and Procurator Fiscal Service also confirmed receipt of a prosecution report.

Colin Smyth has now been suspended from the Scottish Labour Party and sits as an Independent. He had previously been selected as the party’s candidate for Dumfriesshire in the 2026 election.

While King Charles has made no public comment, the possibility that he unknowingly used a lavatory involved in an active criminal investigation has only deepened the scandal, raising serious questions about the adequacy of security protocols for visiting royals and politicians alike.