What happens to MSPs when a general election is called?
MSPs cease to be Members of the Scottish Parliament once Parliament is dissolved. During the period of the dissolution, MSPs and their staff will have only the same access to the building as members of the public. They will be able to use parliamentary facilities such as local offices and equipment in order to deal with on-going constituency casework only. They will not be able to use any parliamentary facilities or resources in connection with canvassing or electioneering. This is to ensure that all candidates or prospective candidates are treated equally and that candidates who were MSPs or the staff of MSPs before dissolution are not given any advantage over other candidates.
