‘History won’t be kind to those who prioritise political advantage’
Nicola Sturgeon led criticism of the “self-centred” Conservative Party for collapsing into chaos at the critical point in Brexit talks.
The First Minister tweeted that the confidence vote in the Prime Minister was “a stark reminder that the UK is facing chaos and crisis entirely because of a vicious civil war within the Tory party”.
She added: “What a self-centred bunch they are. They all need to go, not just the PM.”
Shadow Scottish secretary Lesley Laird said the Prime Minister had “lost all authority”.
“Last week, her government was found in contempt of Parliament and lost three votes in the space of an hour,” Ms Laird said. “This week alone, she has delayed the vote on her Brexit deal and is now facing a vote of no confidence from her own MPS.
“The chaos in the Tory party is putting the future of our country at risk of further division and instability.”
Business leaders were also highly critical of the leadership challenge while Brexit remains unresolved.
Stephen Martin, directorgeneral of the Institute of Directors, said yesterday’s vote was “the last thing businesses needed”.
He said: “Many business
leaders, along with the rest of the country, will be tearing their hair out at the state of Westminster politics at the moment.
“We are edging closer and closer to no deal as a result of constant can-kicking and internal domestic political strife.”
Dr Adam Marshall, directorgeneral of the British Chambers of Commerce, said that at such a crucial time, it was “unacceptable that Westminster politicians have chosen to focus on themselves, rather than on the needs of the country”.
He said: “The utter dismay amongst businesses watching events in Westminster cannot be exaggerated.
“Our firms are worried, investors around the world are baffled and disappointed. History will not be kind to those who prioritise political advantage over people’s livelihoods.”