MSP Stephen Kerr Apologizes for Calling Murdo Fraser’s Leadership Campaign ‘Awful’ in WhatsApp Mishap

Scottish Conservative leadership contest: MSP Stephen Kerr criticizes Murdo Fraser's campaign as 'terrible' in WhatsApp mishap

Mr. Kerr states that his remarks, which were inadvertently shared publicly, were misinterpreted and he remains supportive of Mr. Fraser's efforts to succeed Douglas Ross.

Scotland correspondent @Jenster13

Thursday, August 15, 2024, 11:

A Scottish Conservative Member of the Scottish Parliament has issued an apology after harshly criticizing colleague Murdo Fraser's bid for party leadership, describing it as "awful."

In several mistakenly shared status updates on his WhatsApp, Stephen Kerr voiced criticism of Mr. Fraser's candidacy, even though he had openly supported him.

"Starting to think I should have endorsed Meghan," Mr. Kerr noted, alluding to Meghan Gallacher, Mr. Fraser's competition for leadership and the present deputy leader of the Scottish Tories.

He commented, "Murdo's campaign is terrible."

Contest for Scottish Conservative Leader: Candidates to Succeed Douglas Ross

Mr. Kerr, who represents Central Scotland and previously served as the chief whip for his party in the Scottish Parliament, also raised concerns about Mr. Fraser's choice to promote an online gathering for council members featuring MSP Graham Simpson, who handles transport issues.

Mr. Kerr penned: "Is that so?"

Further Discussion on Conservatives

Was it Appropriate for Starmer to Call the Rioters 'Racists'?

Liz Truss Reacts to Lettuce Banner Gag

Contest for Scottish Conservative Leader: Candidates to Succeed Douglas Ross

Associated Subjects:

He also stated, "Graham Simpson has absolutely no knowledge of collaborating with council members."

Stay informed on the most recent developments from the UK and across the globe by tuning into Sky News.

Mr. Kerr argued that his remarks were misconstrued and remains in support of Mr. Fraser.

He stated, "Murdo has been a part of my life for almost all of my adult years, and I am convinced that he is the leader we currently require.

"He possesses the natural aptitude to excel as the leader of the Scottish Conservative Party. Throughout this leadership contest, it has become evident that he has the foresight, strategy, and enthusiasm required to revitalize our party."

Mr. Kerr expressed his pleasure in endorsing Mr. Fraser for the position of party leader.

He stated, "During a private discussion, where my comments were not fully captured, I voiced some reservations about a particular element of a forthcoming event. The individual involved in this private exchange is a close friend.

"It's unfortunate that during this crucial discussion about our party's future, elements of a private discussion have been misconstrued."

"I wholeheartedly endorse Murdo as the next leader of our party."

Discover additional details on Sky News: Liz Truss reacts to abruptly leaving the stage after a prank involving a lettuce banner. Tory leadership contender criticizes Elon Musk as being out of touch with reality.

Stay ahead with the latest breaking news updates.

Download the Sky News application at no cost

Mr. Fraser, representing Mid Scotland and Fife as an MSP, is a leading candidate in the competition.

A representative from his campaign team stated: "Stephen has expressed regret to Murdo for his remarks, which he believes were misinterpreted, and he firmly asserts that Murdo is the ideal choice for leader.

Murdo is encouraged by the positive reaction he's getting from party members throughout Scotland, as an increasing number each day rally behind his call for genuine transformation, targeting both the Scottish Conservatives and the nation as a whole.

👉 Tap here to subscribe to Electoral Dysfunction on your favorite podcast platforms 👈

Six Scottish Conservative MSPs have launched campaigns to replace Douglas Ross as the leader of their party.

Mr. Fraser, Ms. Gallacher, Russell Findlay, Brian Whittle, Liam Kerr, and Jamie Greene have all entered the contest.

The contenders are required to secure 100 endorsements from party affiliates by August 22 in order to be eligible for the election.

The competition is set to conclude on September 27, prior to the announcement of Rishi Sunak's successor by the UK Conservative Party on November 2.

Associated Subjects

Footer of Sky News

Information about Sky News

Services Provided by Sky News

Sky Television Networks

Additional Sky Websites