A council has decided not to publish a report costing approximately £53,000 that examined complaints involving a former Member of the Scottish Youth Parliament (MSYP), prompting criticism over transparency and accountability.

The report was commissioned following concerns raised about the handling of complaints and was intended to review the circumstances surrounding the case and identify any lessons for the future. However, council officials have chosen to keep the document confidential, citing legal, privacy, and data protection considerations.

The decision has drawn scrutiny from campaigners and members of the public, who argue that taxpayers deserve greater transparency regarding a report funded with public money. They contend that withholding the findings limits public understanding of how the complaints were managed and whether appropriate procedures were followed.

Council representatives have maintained that while the report contains sensitive personal information, the authority remains committed to improving its complaints processes and governance. Officials say any recommendations that can be implemented without compromising confidentiality will be considered as part of ongoing efforts to strengthen internal procedures.

The case has renewed debate over the balance between protecting individual privacy and ensuring accountability in matters involving public institutions. Observers note that councils often face difficult decisions when reports include personal or legally sensitive information, particularly when public funds have been used to commission independent investigations.