Borders MP backing Jackson Carlaw’s bid to lead Scotland’s Tories

John Lamont, Jackson Carlaw and Rachael Hamilton.

Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk MP Mr Lamont has joined Rachael Hamilton, his successor as MSP for Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire, in supporting Mr Carlaw, currently interim leader of the party this side of the border.

The MSP for Eastwood in East Renfrewshire is only up against one other contender for the job – South Scotland Tory list MSP Michelle Ballantyne, formerly a councillor for Selkirkshire.

Party members will begin voting soon, and the result will be announced on Friday, February 14.

Scottish Tory leadership election candidates Michelle Ballantyne, second from left, and Jackson Carlaw, fourth from left, at hustings in Moffat on Saturday. Looking on, from left, are MP David Mundell, meeting chairman Charles Milroy and MSP Oliver Mundell.

Mr Lamont said: “I have known Jackson for a very long time. Jackson and I were both elected to the Scottish Parliament at the same time back in 2007, so I know that he has the ability to challenge Nicola Sturgeon and her SNP government ahead of the Scottish elections in 2021.

“He also has the experience of being our leader, doing so whilst Ruth Davidson was on maternity leave and since she stepped down as leader.

“Week in, week out, we have all seen how well he can hold Nicola Sturgeon to account in Holyrood.

“Scotland has important elections in 2021 – just 16 months away. We will have a choice between Nicola Sturgeon’s SNP, which will continue their obsession with independence, or we can elect an alternative government which will focus on our NHS, schools and other critical public services which the SNP have neglected so badly.

“I believe that Jackson is the best person to bring about the change that Scotland desperately needs.”

Dumfriesshire, Clydesdale and Tweeddale MP David Mundell is also backing Mr Carlaw.