A genuine “Scottish alternative”

Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party news release

 

The Scottish Conservatives will offer a genuine "Scottish alternative" to the SNP in next year's Holyrood elections, Ruth Davidson said today.

 In a key note speech marking 150 days until the May 5th vote, the leader of the Scottish Conservatives said the party would speak up for people increasingly concerned about a 'one party state' under the SNP.

 

"My message to them is this: in the Scottish Conservatives, there is an alternative voice which will stand up to the SNP's plans for separation, and constant flirtation with a second referendum."

She adds: "Here's my message 150 days out. Scotland isn't a one party state. Not while I'm around it won't be. Our party has the team, the commitment, the energy, the ideas and the vision for the fight ahead."

Over the coming five months, the Scottish Conservatives will, she said, set out a clear alternative plan - for a "moderate, energetic" Scottish Government which categorically rules out taking Scotland back to another referendum.

"With a vote for the Scottish Conservatives in May, you are saying that you want to move on.  That you want to put an end to it. It's a vote which says  - I want to live in a country whose future isn't under a cloud – but is assured. Simply, it's a vote restating your wish to stay part of the United Kingdom so you and your family can get on with life."

Setting out the Scottish Conservative vision for the next 150 days, she added: "My plan for this election is to use our strong foundations within the United Kingdom to set out a new vision. Not bowing to the big state on the one hand or genuflecting to the free market on the other – but of an active and energetic government which seeks to create a more level playing field, and a better quality of life for us all. A moderate government which knows that the State can't do it all and shouldn't try to – but knows that the State can strengthen society when used well."

The speech comes as the Scottish Conservatives this week unveil all their regional list rankings.

 "I want people to know that we are ready. We are prepared. I've brought our party to the start line in good shape. Ours is a party that now gets devolution and has transformed itself to reflect entirely our modern Union. This is a Scottish election. So this is our campaign. It's our plan, policies and ideas. Made in Scotland. For Scotland."