Conservative candidate Ivor Tiefenbrun resigns over insult to Scots

They say a week is a long time in politics, however, for Ivor Tiefenbrun three days is enough.

On Monday he was the Conservative candidate for Glasgow Maryhill and Springburn.

On Tuesday, he insulted Scots while at the same time defending Margaret Thatcher in an interview published in The Scotsman.

Also on Tuesday,  a spokesman for the Scottish Tories denied Mr Tiefenbrun had made the comments, stating:

"The candidate denies using these words and does not hold these views."

On Wednesday, he has to resign as the Conservative candidate for Glasgow Maryhill and Springburn.

However, in a statement published today [Wednesday], Mr Tiefenbrun said:

"There are many important issues facing our country and I have no desire for anything to divert my party - or indeed the media - from concentrating on those vital challenges.

"Accordingly, I will not be standing in the forthcoming Holyrood elections. I wish my successor and our candidates across Scotland well in May."

Andrew Fulton, Scottish Conservative Party Chairman, added:

"I have spoken to Ivor and respect and understand his decision which has been taken in the best interests of the party."

So, the Conservative Party are now seeking a new candidate for Glasgow Maryhill and Springburn, preferably one who doesn't insult the very people they may well rely on for votes next May.