Russell Findlay has stated that he will continue as Scottish Conservative leader for as long as he believes he can make a difference, following a pre-election poll suggesting significant losses for the party. The YouGov poll indicated that the Tories could fall from 31 seats to just seven in the Scottish Parliament, potentially making them the smallest party.
Findlay's Response to Poll Speculation
Speaking to the Press Association in Edinburgh, Findlay addressed concerns over the poll, saying: "Look, there's all sorts of speculation. I've said all along that I'll continue doing this job for as long as I and people in my party think I can make a difference." He acknowledged the party's poor performance in the 2024 general election, noting that both he and Kemi Badenoch understood it would not be a quick fix. "We have to rebuild public trust," he added.
Findlay outlined the party's plan to regain confidence: "We had to hold our hands up where we got things wrong and we had to show people that we've got a plan … to grow the economy, to reward aspiration, not tax it, and to bring down the benefits bill. And that's what we have been doing. It may not be quick, but I'm sure when people give us a fair hearing they'll see that our party can be trusted."
Campaigning on Calton Hill
On the final day of campaigning before the election, Findlay met supporters at Calton Hill, where he described the election result as being on a "knife edge." He warned against John Swinney's confidence, stating: "John Swinney is arrogantly telling everyone that not only has he won this election, but that he's going to win by a majority, and with that he'll start immediately demanding another independence referendum. This is the last thing the people of Scotland want and it's the last thing that Scotland needs."
Findlay urged voters to prevent a majority for Swinney by backing the Scottish Conservatives on their peach-coloured ballot paper, echoing strategies from the 2016 and 2021 elections. He emphasised that stopping a majority would be crucial to avoiding another independence referendum.
