Legionnaires' bug at parliament

Parliament bosses told staff the water supply was safe

Bacteria which can cause Legionnaires' disease has been found for a second time in the Scottish Parliament.

Raised levels of legionella were found in water outlets in 17th Century Queensberry House and Canongate areas, during tests in January.

Holyrood chief executive Paul Grice said drinking water was not affected and there was no risk to the public.

Last month, parliamentary authorities were criticised for not revealing a similar find eight months ago.

In a notice to Holyrood building users, Mr Grice said swift action was taken during the latest find, and "early indications" had not thrown up raised levels of the bacteria elsewhere in the building.

"The independent water quality expert has confirmed that the immediate actions we have taken are appropriate and that the water supply is safe," he said.

"Beyond that, facilities management will be working with our experts to establish if any longer-term measures need to be taken."

Last month, it emerged the bacteria was found in June 2008, also inside Queensberry House.

Parliament bosses again said there was no health risk, but members of Holyrood's management group, the Scottish Parliamentary Corporate Body, expressed disappointment not to have been told about the find at the time.

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