Conservative result a ‘little perplexing’

It was somewhat surprising to hear that Miss Davidson succeeded when she won the endorsement of only two other MSPs during the campaign with the largest group in the party backing Mr Fraser and his plan to replace the party with a new organisation.

As one of the disillusioned voters no longer voting Conservative and given the underlying results from both the low turn out and the spread of support for the candidates, it is hard to believe Miss Davidson’s victory statement claiming that: “The Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party is very much alive and kicking. That has been very clear in the exhilarating debate we have had during this campaign.”

While Mr Fraser acknowledges that his strategy was a bold and radical proposal, his claim that it was a leap too far for the majority of the members doesn’t really stand up given that more people stayed away from their party on a crucial vote than those who voted for the winner. I would posit that this says more about the current mindset of Conservative voters on David Cameron’s mismanagement of the UK and his subservience to the European Union than it does on this internal election.

Steven McKeane

Ellwyn Terrace

Galashiels

What future for Mid Scotland and Fife MSP Murdo Fraser after his defeat in the Scottish Conservatives’ leadership race?

The easiest thing to do would be a sort of “David Miliband” and wander off into the political wilderness for a period of reflection. However, this is something that Ruth Davidson should actively discourage him from doing.

Mr Fraser may have gone too far in the campaign by proposing a new party with a new image. But the point he made about public perception of the party should not be lost on the Tory policymakers north of the Border. A new, youthful, media-savvy leader should seize the opportunity to revamp the party, its policies and how it reconnects with the young and with middle-income voters. This could be called “Murdo-max”; accepting that change is needed in almost everything (but not a change of name). It is axiomatic that Mr Fraser will have a role play in this venture. Ms Davidson needs to look not just at polishing the party’s organisation, she made an error in the contest by suggesting that devolution has come far enough.

Well, fair enough, the Tories are on strong round when they’re emphasising issues such as crime reduction, town centre regeneration, lower business rates, more help for rural communities, a higher profile for entrepreneurs. But these advantages will be spoiled if people in Scotland perceive that the party is putting a cap on national aspirations.

The quest for greater fiscal and administrative powers can fit nicely with a centreright agenda. Ms Davidson needs to bring Mr Fraser on board quickly to get that message across. Together they can revive not just the Conservatives’ fortunes here, but also the health of democracy in Scotland.

Bob Taylor

Shiel Court

Glenrothes, Fife

SOME commentators have said that Ruth Davidson’s victory was down to her being the “stop Murdo” candidate. While people voted for her for a variety of reasons, that is a fundamentally unfair analysis.

As a supporter of Ruth’s, I talked to a lot of members about her candidacy and there were two main reasons why she appealed to the party. Ruth’s youth and non-Holyrood experience were positive assets.

She is a clear, generational break from the past. To throw Mrs Thatcher at her is as relevant as bringing up Churchill or Disraeli.

In addition, members recognised that she is an impressive communicator. She articulates a positive 21st century Scottish Conservatism with intelligence, passion and energy.

Stewart Whyte

Crombie Acres

Westhill, Aberdeenshire