NEALE HANVEY MP pulled out of an anti-Semitism talk last week believing it would have been "inappropriate" before a decision is made on his suspension from the SNP.

The Independent for Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath had been listed as one of the panel due to speak at an event titled, 'What is Anti-Semitism? And What Is Not?', in Kirkcaldy last Thursday.

It also included input from the Scottish Jews Against Zionism and the Scottish Palestine Solidarity Campaign.

Mr Hanvey was suspended from the SNP in November for anti-Semitic remarks made on social media in 2016.

In December’s General Election, the former Dunfermline Central councillor’s name remained on the ballot paper and he took the seat from Labour’s Lesley Laird.

At the time, he apologised “unreservedly” for his actions and confirmed his suspension related to social media posts, adding that the First Minister was “absolutely right” to take a zero-tolerance approach.

He said: "Whilst I welcome discussions on all forms of discrimination, I was awaiting information on the content of the proposed event.

"However, due to a misunderstanding it was advertised before this had happened.

"As I felt it would not be appropriate for me to discuss my personal circumstances prior to the conclusion of the internal party process, I discussed this with the event organisers who were supportive of my position.

"I am currently engaging with members of the Jewish community to develop a deeper understanding of their concerns and how best to address them."

Earlier this month, a call was made for an “urgent end” to the new MP's suspension from the SNP by the local Inverkeithing and Dalgety Bay branch.

They sent a letter to the party asking that his position be restored and wanted to express their full confidence and support for Mr Hanvey.

As it's now around two months since Mr Hanvey was suspended, the Press pushed the SNP for an update on the investigation or an indication of likely timescale for a conclusion but the party said there was nothing it could say at this point.

Mr Hanvey added: "The process is a matter for the party and I am waiting patiently to hear from them with details of next steps."

An SNP spokesperson said: "Mr Hanvey remains suspended prior to a complaint being heard under the SNP’s disciplinary code."