"Bring it on!" - Moray's SNP MSP Richard Lochhead reacts to Douglas Ross' Scottish Conservative leadership bid
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BRING it on – that was the message from Moray's SNP MSP Richard Lochhead after MP Douglas Ross announced he will be standing for leader of the Scottish Conservative Party.
Mr Ross, who was re-elected as Moray's MP in December with a majority of 513 over the SNP's Laura Mitchell, this morning signalled his intention to stand for the leadership role, which was vacated by Jackson Carlaw last night.
Mr Ross is so far the only candidate to put his hat in the ring, and is reportedly set to stand as a list MSP in May 2021's Scottish Parliament election.
READ: Douglas Ross confirms Scottish Tories leadership bid.
Richard Lochhead said he is "unsure" what Moray voters may think of that decision.
He said: "They (the Scottish Conservatives) can change the captain as often as they want but it’s the ship that’s the problem.
"It’s being reported he (Douglas Ross) intends to stand as an MSP and if elected keep his job as MP. I wonder what the people of Moray will say about that?
"I’m not sure Mr Ross’ style and track record is going to go down any better with the Scottish public. However, he seems to have the support of the UK Conservative Party establishment.
"I believe in a more equal, tolerant, outward looking and progressive society underpinned by consistent principles and a vision of what Scotland can be.
"Exactly the opposite of what Mr Ross stands for and has voted for.
"Bring it on!"
