Conservative plotters told to get behind UK's May amid Brexit fears

LONDON, Oct 7 (Reuters) - Lawmakers in British Prime Minister Theresa May's Conservative Party who are trying to oust her as leader have been told to “put up, shut up” by the party's chief in Scotland.

Others in the party warned that the uncertainty over May was damaging Brexit negotiations with the European Union.

May on Friday said she would remain as leader after a former Conservative chairman said he had garnered the support of 30 lawmakers who wanted her to quit.

It followed a disastrous speech at the party's conference and a snap election in June in which May lost her party's majority in parliament.

Senior figures have rallied round May, but the open rebellion comes as Britain embarks on crucial talks just 18 months before Britain is due to leave the European Union.

One newspaper reported on Saturday EU negotiators were stepping up talks with the opposition Labour Party amid concerns the government will collapse.

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson, who is considered a possible successor should May be forced out, told the BBC the prime minister's critics should “put up, shut up and get off the stage”.