Scottish Conservative leader Russell Findlay has described Thomas Kerr’s defection to Reform UK as “very disappointing”.
The leader of the Tories at Glasgow City Council announced on Thursday that he had joined the party led by Nigel Farage and will represent them on the council.
Kerr is the fifth councillor in Scotland to join Reform UK. His defection comes after a poll suggested Farage’s party would win seats in the 2026 election and give Holyrood a pro-union majority.
Speaking to STV News, Findlay said he understands why people have become “disillusioned”.
“It’s obviously very disappointing to hear the news, to read about it this morning but my focus remains on holding this completely rotten SNP government to account,” he said.
“That’s my job.
“When I took control of this party, I knew that we faced big challenges. I know people feel disillusioned and disconnected, and it’s my job to confidently set out a range of Scottish Conservative measures to persuade the people of Scotland that we’re on their side and that we understand why people are so disillusioned by politics.”
Asked whether he fears more defections are to come, Findlay insisted any conversations over potential moves would “remain private”.
He added: “I can only control what’s in my gift to do, so I can’t anticipate what other people may or may not decide to do.
“It’s my job to ensure colleagues understand our direction of travel and have confidence in the Scottish Conservative party.”
Sharing news of his defection, Kerr said: “Joining Reform UK is a significant turning point for me. My own experiences with addiction, losing my father and watching my mother recover, have shaped my desire to make real, lasting change.
“I am committed to ensuring that every person in Scotland who is struggling with addiction has access to the support and recovery services they need to rebuild their lives.
“Reform UK represents the change our communities desperately need, and I’m excited to continue my work for Shettleston with this dynamic new party.”
It comes after First Minister John Swinney said he will confront rather than “cosy up to” Reform.
He said: “What’s very noteworthy about the poll is the strength of the SNP position given the challenges and difficulties that we have faced, particularly in the general election back in July.
“I think what that indicates and perhaps confirms is my view that the SNP is recovering from its difficulties but has not yet fully recovered.”
He said he did not agree with Reform UK’s outlook on immigrants, saying he welcomed migrants who come to contribute to Scotland.
Swinney said: “That has always been my view, it will always be my view.
“It will not be the view taken by those who advocate for reform nor those prepared to cosy up to Reform.
“And I will not cosy up to Reform, I will confront Reform.”
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