Ross backed Duguid 14 days before replacing him as election candidate

NEWS of Douglas Ross’ plan to run in next month’s General Election comes just two weeks after the Scottish Conservative leader gave his backing to David Duguid. Mr Duguid, a former MP for the old Banff and Buchan seat, had been seeking the party’s nomination to contest the newly-created Aberdeenshire North and Moray East seat despite being seriously ill in hospital. But Mr Ross now looks set to contest the seat after the party management board concluded that Mr Duguid could not proceed as the Conservative candidate for the constituency. That is despite the Moray politician, who donates his MSP salary to charity, previously stating he would not seek re-election in 2024. Mr Duguid has been unwell for a number of weeks and it is understood that the decision to effectively deselect him has been made on health grounds. Mr Ross backed Mr Duguid on social media two weeks ago for the upcoming General Election. The post reads: “So pleased to hear you’re on the mend, David. “You’re a great constituency neighbour and colleague. “I’m looking forward to supporting your re-election to the House of Commons. “Sending you and your family my very best wishes for the remainder of your recovery.” Mr Duguid announced in a statement last night (June 5) that he will not be put forward by the party to contest the seat. The statement reads: “Last week I informed you of my rehabilitation progress and how I was looking forward to campaigning (albeit without knocking on doors) for the upcoming election. “I am pleased to say my recovery programme is well on schedule thanks to the excellent NHS Staff in Queen Elizabeth Hospital Spinal Injury Unit. “Notwithstanding this, and despite my having been adopted by our local members, the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party has informed me tonight that they have decided not to put me forward as their chosen candidate for Aberdeenshire North and Moray East.” Mr Ross called an emergency press conference this morning (June 6) to announce he will be standing instead. Asked whether he had spoken to Mr Duguid in person, he said: “It has been difficult to physically speak to David but members of the party did speak to David.” Mr Ross will apply for the party’s nomination this evening. Do you want to respond to this article? If so, click here to submit your thoughts and they may be published in print.