Proposed changes under fire from local politicians

Local politicians lined up to slam the proposed boundary changes and pledge to continue serving their communities.

As Westminster speculation mounts that the plans might fall when MPs vote on them, some were scathing.

Dunfermline and West Fife MP Douglas Chapman said: “Clearly I am unhappy at any reduction in the number of democratically elected Scottish MPs, especially at a time when the number of unelected Lords is growing exponentially.”

North-East Fife MP Stephen Gethins said: “It is too early to speculate on who may be standing where as this only at consultation stage with no guarantee any proposed changes will be approved.”

The Courier also asked Angus MP Mike Weir, Dundee West’s Chris Law, Glenrothes representative Peter Grant, Kirkcaldy and Cowdenbeath MP Roger Mullin, Perth and North Perthshire’s Pete Wishart to comment.

Each failed to respond, with suggestions from Nationalist sources that politicians were being discouraged from speaking out on the changes, which could lead to internal battles.

Ochil and South Perthshire politician Tasmina Ahmed-Sheikh, also contacted, said: “Notwithstanding these proposals, my first priority remains to do my best to represent the interests of my constituents in Ochil and South Perthshire who have given me the honour to represent them in Parliament.”