DOUGLAS Ross has been condemned after it was revealed that he is set to net an additional payoff of £8400 for his failed MP bid.
The former Scottish Tory leader, who was replaced by Russell Findlay on Friday, ousted sick colleague David Duguid from his seat in Aberdeenshire North and Moray East in a shock General Election bid in July but then went on to lose against the SNP’s Seamus Logan.
Now, the Scottish Sun has revealed that Ross taking on the candidacy means he is entitled to extra severance.
While MPs who stand down or lose their seats at the General Election receive four months salary – those who stand and lose can also get a loss-of-office payment.
For Ross, this is reported to be £8400 – on top of an extra £17,589.83 for stepping down as MP for Moray.
The Scottish Sun asked Ross whether he would donate the extra payment.
“I contested the seat with every intention of winning it after the party management board’s decision,” he responded.
“Any payment I receive will be determined by IPSA guidelines for all defeated MPs.”
Scottish Labour MSP Martin Whitfield told the paper: “After the shoddy way David Duguid was treated, it adds insult to injury that Douglas Ross is raking in thousands of pounds at his expense.
“This morally bankrupt Tory party continues to sink to new lows – and it will take more than a new leader to stop the rot.”
An SNP spokesperson added: “Douglas Ross’ ability to line his own pockets, particularly in these circumstances, would be impressive if it wasn’t so callous.
“The Tories once again prove it’s all about themselves - and Douglas Ross exemplifies why the public have shown them the door.”
