The Press and Journal (Inverness, Highlands, and Islands)
RUTH DAVIDSON EXPECTING FIRST CHILD
Delight for top Tory and partner Jen
Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson admits she cannot stop smiling as she revealed she is pregnant with her first child.
She spoke of her delight after announcing that she and partner Jen Wilson will welcome their new arrival in late autumn.
Ms Davidson says she and her partner since 2014 are “excited and daunted” about the months to come and are “overjoyed” at the prospect of starting a family together.
The 39-year-old politician said the news does not change her political commitment or her plans to lead the Scottish Conservatives into the 2021 Holyrood elections, stating that she is “simply doing what thousands of working women do every year”.
Ms Davidson, who has made no secret of her desire to be a mother, found out in March that an IVF procedure had worked.
She said there had been “ups and downs” along the way, but added: “We’re just delighted that it’s been successful. We’re really looking forward to starting our family.”
Asked how she felt when she was told the good news, she said: “Just really relieved, actually, because it’s quite a lot of stress and pressure.
“I actually can’t keep the smile off my face.”
Ms Davidson revealed that she has been affected a little by morning sickness, fatigue and dizzy spells, but says it will be “business as usual” until she goes on maternity leave, hitting her work commitments with “customary gusto”.
Ms Davidson’s deputy within the party, Jackson Carlaw, will hold the fort for a few months while she is on maternity leave – although she admits she is unlikely to able to stay off the phone, “demanding regular updates” during this time.
Prime Minister Theresa May tweeted her congratulations following the announcement, saying: “Wonderful news! I’m very happy for you and Jen.”
Nicola Sturgeon said: “Many congratulations to Ruth Davidson and her partner Jen on their lovely news. The baby box is on the way!”