Davidson: Salmond and Farage use similar rhetoric

Alex Salmond was compared to Nigel Farage by Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson yesterday when her party launched its European election manifesto. Ms Davidson said there was a “similarity” between the parties led by the two men in the way they dealt in “anti-Westminster rhetoric” for political ends.

Ruth Davidson joins candidates and party workers to launch the partys manifesto. Picture: Esme Allen

She also revealed her party would appeal on the European election ballot paper as “Scottish Conservatives – No to independence”.

The ballot paper wording was described by the Tories as a “clear message” that a Conservative vote was one for “the UK family of nations”, which will give Scots more influence to change Europe.

The SNP has argued the Conservative pledge to hold an in/out referendum on EU membership is the “real threat” to Scotland’s place in Europe.

The Conservatives, however, argue a Yes vote threatens Scotland’s place in the EU, because leading European officials have claimed that an independent Scotland would not get automatic EU entry.

When asked about the threat posed to the Tory vote by Ukip, Ms Davidson suggested it had less chance of success in Scotland. She said: “[Farage’s] party has come somewhat late to things, in terms of looking for a niche for a bellicose, nationalist voice to be anti-Westminster and peddle in some grievance.”