ROSS: PM MUST GO
Scots Tory leader in resign plea
DOUGLAS Ross has called for Boris Johnson to stand down as Prime Minister over the Downing Street lockdown party scandal.
The Scottish Tory leader, backed by over 20 of his MSPs, issued the demand after Johnson admitted attending the lockdown-breaching gathering.
Ross, an MSP and an MP, said he told the PM in a conversation today.
Johnson’s premiership is in jeopardy after he admitted attending a boozy Downing Street party in May 2020 held at the same time as citizens were making heartbreaking sacrifices.
Ross said in an interview today: “I said yesterday if the Prime Minister attended this gathering, party, event, in Downing Street on the 20th May he could not continue as PM. So regretfully I have to say his position is no longer tenable.”
He added: “I am in the position now where I don’t think he can continue as leader of the Conservatives.”
On his talks with the PM, he said: “I spoke to the Prime Minister this afternoon and set out my reasons.”
He also said: “I know from speaking to colleagues there is significant unrest about the actions that took place in Downing Street.”
Ross signposted his quit call in an interview with STV News yesterday, when he was asked: “If he was at the party he can’t continue as Prime Minister, can he?”
Ross replied: “No, because it’s a breach of the guidance. It’s a breach of the rules that were put in place. It’s also breaking the law.”
Most Tory MSPs lined up to back Ross today.
Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser tweeted: “I fully support @ Douglas4Moray in this call. I’m afraid the Prime Minister’s position is no longer tenable, he has lost public trust.”
North East MSP Douglas Lumsden wrote: “Fully support @ Douglas4Moray in this call.”
Elizabeth Smith, another Tory representative in Mid Scotland and Fife, tweeted: “I note that the media believe @Douglas4Moray Ross has made a brave call. He has also made the right call.”
South Scotland MSP Craig Hoy limited himself to three words when responding to Ross’ remarks: “Considered. Consistent. Correct.”
Eastwood MSP and former Scottish Tory leader Jackson Carlaw tweeted: “I believe Douglas has made the right call & that the PM should stand down.”