Mark Findlater and Laurie Carnie reveal reasons behind their shift to Reform UK.
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In a significant political shift, two Aberdeenshire councillors, Mark Findlater and Laurie Carnie, have made headlines by becoming the first in Scotland to join Reform UK, leaving behind the Conservative Party amid growing internal strife. Their decision, which they have now openly discussed, sheds light on the factors that led to their departure from a party they once supported.
Reasons for the departure
Mark Findlater, the former leader of Aberdeenshire Council, and Mearns councillor Laurie Carnie have cited party in-fighting and dissatisfaction with leadership decisions as key reasons for their exit. In an exclusive interview, Findlater revealed that his departure was influenced by the controversial de-selection of former Tory MP David Duguid, who had been hospitalized due to a serious illness.
This decision sparked outrage among local party members, particularly within the fishing and farming communities that had supported Duguid.
Findlater expressed his disappointment with the way the party handled the situation, stating, “What Douglas Ross did was reprehensible.” His frustration was compounded by the lack of support for Duguid during his time of need, which he felt reflected poorly on the party’s values.
Discontent with party leadership
Both councillors voiced their discontent with the Conservative Party’s leadership dynamics, particularly during the recent leadership contest. Findlater described the new leader, Russell Findlay, as the “establishment pick” of a “cabal” operating in Edinburgh, indicating a disconnect between the party’s leadership and its grassroots members. Carnie echoed these sentiments, noting that the internal conflicts within the party had created a toxic environment that she could no longer tolerate.
After attending a Reform UK meeting, Findlater was pleasantly surprised by the party’s transparency and straightforwardness, contrasting it with the closed-door decisions he experienced as a council leader. This newfound alignment with Reform UK’s values, particularly their stance on energy policies, played a significant role in their decision to switch parties.
Reform UK’s appeal and future prospects
Findlater and Carnie are optimistic about Reform UK’s potential in Aberdeenshire, particularly regarding their approach to energy policies. They support the party’s advocacy for fast-tracking oil and gas licenses to stimulate the local economy, a stance they believe resonates with constituents who are frustrated with the Conservative Party’s direction.
As they look ahead to the upcoming Holyrood elections, both councillors anticipate that Reform UK will perform well, citing increased attendance at public meetings and a growing interest in the party from voters across the political spectrum. Findlater remarked, “There’s a lot of people who have never been involved in politics before and they’re coming forward and they see there needs to be real change.”
Despite the challenges facing Reform UK, including recent allegations of workplace bullying against MP Rupert Lowe, Findlater and Carnie remain committed to their new political home. They express no regrets about leaving the Conservative Party, with Findlater stating, “It was actually the Conservative Party that left us.” Their journey reflects a broader trend of disillusionment among local politicians and voters alike, seeking alternatives that align more closely with their values and priorities.
