Stay up to date with notifications from The IndependentNotifications can be managed in browser preferences.Jump to contentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged inAllNewsSportCultureLifestyleNewly-elected SNP MP Lara Bird is facing accusations of faking a Scottish accent. The controversy follows her recent appearance where she seemingly crossed her fingers whilst swearing allegiance to King Charles. Video footage from January has emerged showing Ms Bird, who is half-Scottish and half-English, speaking with an English accent. Ms Bird explained that she likely picked up an accent while studying in Sheffield and living in London, and due to her English family background. Scottish Tories deputy leader Rachael Hamilton suggested the accent change could be a reaction to anti-English sentiment within the SNP. In fullNewly-elected MP who crossed fingers during oath accused of putting on fake Scottish accentThank you for registeringPlease refresh the page or navigate to another page on the site to be automatically logged inPlease refresh your browser to be logged in

Newly elected MP Lara Bird appeared to cross her fingers as she swore allegiance to King Charles in the House of Commons on Monday (22 June). The new SNP MP for Arbroath and…

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While attention in the Commons chamber this week has understandably been fixed on one Andy Burnham, another new MP has been busily trying to claim the spotlight for herself. The…

Lara Bird, the SNP's new Arbroath and Broughty Ferry representative in the Commons, provoked a backlash with her gesture - and has now faced fresh scrutiny.

Newly-elected SNP MP Lara Bird, who appeared to cross her fingers whilst swearing allegiance to King Charles, has been accused of putting on a fake Scottish accent. Video recorded…

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