Tories finally name parliamentary candidate
THE LOCAL branch of the Scottish Conservative and Unionist Part has finally announced its candidate for the parliamentary elections in May.
Douglas Barnett, a 21-year old student at Aberdeen University, said he is standing to contest the Shetland seat because he wants “to see things change”.
“The islands are a unique and wonderful place, but I know they also face many challenges, and I am eager to get started with the campaign,” he said.
“If elected, I would look to represent everyone in the constituency and take on the big issues, like local ferries, housing – particularly for young people – and the cost of living locally.
“The Scottish Conservatives are about getting things done, putting common sense first, growing the economy – and standing against the independence obsession of the SNP and the Central Belt focus of their Edinburgh-based ministers”.
Highlands and Islands list MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston, who is from Orkney and is standing in the elections in that seat, added: “Douglas offers a real choice to people in the islands who are tired of more of the same at Holyrood.
“I have been privileged to represent Shetland as a regional MSP for the past nine years and it’s incredibly positive to see a young man – one who is so passionate about addressing the issues of rural and island communities – stepping up.
“The Scottish Conservatives will be standing on an agenda that puts growing local economies across the Highlands and Islands at the front and centre.
“Douglas recognises the issues facing young people who are starting out in our region – and also the depth of challenges faced by remote, rural and island communities. He would be an excellent local representative.
“It’s also important that Shetlanders remember that by also giving their regional vote on the peach ballot paper to the Scottish Conservatives, they can help kick out the SNP in Edinburgh”.
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Halcro Johnston and Barnett are planning to hold a number of campaign visits and events throughout the isles during the next month.
Meanwhile there is still no word from the Reform candidate Vic Currie, who has so far failed to respond to media enquiries.
The other candidate standing in the Scottish Parliament election on 7 May are, in alphabetical order: Alex Armitage (Greens), John Erskine (Labour), Hannah Mary Goodlad (SNP), Emma Macdonald (Lib Dems) and Brian Nugent (Alliance to Liberate Scotland).
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