Meghan Gallacher has resigned as Deputy Leader of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party. Ms Gallacher posted her letter to the X platform this afternoon.
Ms Gallacher's resignation letter:
Friday 16" August 2024
Dear Douglas,
For the last two years, I have had the privilege of serving as Deputy Leader of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party. I am honoured to have been appointed such a role, creating the Policy Board and holding the Scottish Government to account.
As a team, we have stood against the SNP on many issues, most notably, the Gender Recognition Reform Bill, that threatened the safety of women and girls. The Scottish Conservatives were the only party in Holyrood to oppose changes to self-id, and I am proud to have held this portfolio before and after my maternity leave.
However, it is with great sadness that I tender my resignation as Deputy Leader of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party.
Since your resignation as Leader of the Scottish Conservatives, it is clear to me that I no longer feel able to serve as your Deputy, as I am now standing as a candidate to be your successor. I believe that there is a conflict of interest in remaining as Deputy, and I will not be able to assist you, as I have been excluded from doing broadcast and media on behalf of the party, as part of my candidacy.
I am also deeply troubled about the story that has emerged in the Telegraph today.
As Deputy Leader, I have backed you in decisions that have been taken, and have been honest when expressing concerns.
However, I was completely unaware of discussions surrounding a candidate that took place in July 2023. Following the story being published, there is a potential risk to the reputation of our party and the leadership contest moving forward. I have yet to be contacted by the Leadership team about these events and I find this regrettable.
It is for these reasons that I am no longer able to continue in my role.
Thank you for the opportunity to serve as Deputy Leader.
Yours Sincerely,
Meghan Gallacher MSP
https://twitter.com/MGallacherMSP/status/1824461701799989759