Martin Compston, best known for playing Steve Arnott in the BBC drama Line of Duty, has become embroiled in a social media dispute with the Scottish Conservative Party after urging voters to back the SNP. The actor, who is Scottish but now lives in Las Vegas with his wife, recently took part in an online rally where he said: “Scotland’s future is in your hands. Don’t leave it to chance. The only way to make sure we re-elect Nicola Sturgeon as First Minister is to make both votes SNP.”
Scottish Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser responded on Twitter, writing: “Another ‘celeb’ who doesn’t live here telling us how to vote.” Compston hit back, stating that he still pays “top-rate tax” in Scotland and “always has. Not through a company as is my right and would substantially lower my tax. I believe those who earn a bit more should pay a bit more.” He also noted that he owns a flat in his native Greenock to be closer to his parents.
Compston further criticised the Tory response by sharing a picture of a letter he had received from the Scottish Conservative Party urging him to vote for them. He tweeted: “I see Scottish Tory twitter and their bots enraged an actor would express an opinion. Apparently it isn’t valid either as they claim I don’t live here. In that case could you do me, the postman and the environment a favour and stop sending me literature asking for my vote.”
The actor was joined by other celebrities, including Brian Cox, in backing the SNP. SNP MSP Mhairi Black thanked Compston and other cultural figures for their support at the online event, saying: “I want to thank Martin and all of the actors, writers, musicians and cultural figures who have given their support to the SNP at this crucial election.”
