MORE than 13,000 people have now signed a petition calling for former Scottish Tory leader and peer Ruth Davidson to be removed from the board of Scottish Rugby.
The appointment of Davidson as a non-executive director earlier this month sparked outrage among fans with some insisting they would boycott games until she was removed from her post.
Others have said they won’t buy the new Scottish Rugby World Cup kit unless she is replaced, while some have gone as far as to suggest they will switch their allegiance to other countries they have links to.
Scottish Rugby claimed she would bring a “depth of experience” to the board.
The petition – started by fan Scott McCarthy – has now attracted almost 13,100 signatures.
It says the appointment of Davidson – who was made a life peer in the House of Lords in 2021 - raises concerns regarding conflicts of interest as she holds “strong political biases” that may influence decision-making.
The petition argues her “lack of experience” in terms of rugby administration or management makes her unsuitable for the role, while fans have cast doubt on whether she will dedicate sufficient time to the role given she has taken up several high-profile roles outside of politics.
It goes on: “The presence of a politically polarising figure like Ruth Davidson within the SRU can lead to public skepticism about its independence from external influences or agendas unrelated to rugby development itself.
“Maintaining transparency in sports governance is paramount for maintaining public trust and support.
“We urge the Scottish Rugby Union to prioritise the best interests of Scottish Rugby by removing Ruth Davidson from her position as non-executive director.
“By doing so, the SRU can demonstrate its commitment to impartiality, expertise, and inclusivity within its governance structure.”
Recent comments on the petition say the move is a “step backwards” as rugby union continues to try and rid itself of the stereotype of being an upper class, public school sport.
Others have criticised the appointment of the Baroness of Lundin Links as she “does not reflect the values of Scottish people” and has “never acted in Scotland’s best interests”.
The SRU has so far declined to offer further comment on the response to Davidson’s appointment.
