Commenting on Douglas Ross’s announcement that he will not stand for re-election in 2026, Highlands and Islands MSP Jamie Halcro Johnston said:
“I am disappointed that Douglas Ross has decided not to seek re-election to the Scottish Parliament in 2026.
“He has been a friend and colleague for over 20 years, and he will be a real loss to Holyrood and to the Highlands and Islands region we both now represent.
“Douglas has been an active campaigner on a number of key local issues, including the downgrading of maternity services in Moray, the SNP’s failure to dual the A96 and A9 as promised, and on the Scottish Government’s failure to deliver for Scotland’s rural and fishing communities.
“As Scottish Conservative Leader, he delivered our highest ever voteshare in 2021, and saw off two SNP leaders, Nicola Sturgeon and Humza Yousaf.
“He is also a tenacious Convenor of Parliament’s Education Committee, and has pursued his Right to Addiction Recovery Bill with determination and commitment.
“While he will be leaving the Scottish Parliament next year, I know Douglas will continue to serve his constituents and his community, and I look forward to getting out and helping Douglas get re-elected to the UK Parliament at the next election”.
