Tory leader Kemi Badenoch has affirmed her 100% confidence in Scottish party leader Russell Findlay amid three high-profile MSP defections this year.
Graham Simpson became the latest to leave, defecting to Reform UK last week, following Jeremy Balfour's decision to sit as an independent and Jamie Greene's move to the Lib Dems.
Councillors have also defected to Reform since late last year.
Despite losing nearly 10% of the Holyrood MSP group, Badenoch supports Findlay, emphasizing a proper plan for Scotland over populism.
During a visit to Aberdeen, she announced support for maximum North Sea oil and gas exploitation, claiming locals described the city as 'dying' and pleaded for help.
Findlay has been conciliatory about defections, but Badenoch was bullish, welcoming Nigel Farage taking non-conservatives and criticizing Reform's policies like increased welfare spending and partial nationalization of oil and gas.
She accused defectors like Simpson, a long-time member, of prioritizing winning over public service.
Badenoch stressed the Conservative Party's business focus and seriousness under Findlay's leadership during tough times.
The defections highlight internal challenges for Scottish Tories, with Badenoch's stance aiming to rally the party around core values.
Her visit underscores economic priorities like energy, contrasting with rivals' approaches.
As the political landscape shifts, Badenoch's confidence in Findlay signals stability efforts, but ongoing defections pose risks.
The emphasis on public service over opportunism resonates with party ideals, yet addressing voter concerns remains key.
This situation reflects broader UK conservative fragmentation, with Reform's rise challenging traditional alignments.
Graham Simpson became the latest to leave, defecting to Reform UK last week, following Jeremy Balfour's decision to sit as an independent and Jamie Greene's move to the Lib Dems.
Councillors have also defected to Reform since late last year.
Despite losing nearly 10% of the Holyrood MSP group, Badenoch supports Findlay, emphasizing a proper plan for Scotland over populism.
During a visit to Aberdeen, she announced support for maximum North Sea oil and gas exploitation, claiming locals described the city as 'dying' and pleaded for help.
Findlay has been conciliatory about defections, but Badenoch was bullish, welcoming Nigel Farage taking non-conservatives and criticizing Reform's policies like increased welfare spending and partial nationalization of oil and gas.
She accused defectors like Simpson, a long-time member, of prioritizing winning over public service.
Badenoch stressed the Conservative Party's business focus and seriousness under Findlay's leadership during tough times.
The defections highlight internal challenges for Scottish Tories, with Badenoch's stance aiming to rally the party around core values.
Her visit underscores economic priorities like energy, contrasting with rivals' approaches.
As the political landscape shifts, Badenoch's confidence in Findlay signals stability efforts, but ongoing defections pose risks.
The emphasis on public service over opportunism resonates with party ideals, yet addressing voter concerns remains key.
This situation reflects broader UK conservative fragmentation, with Reform's rise challenging traditional alignments.
