SCOTTISH Tory deputy leader Meghan Gallacher resigned today, saying she was “deeply troubled” at fresh seat-rigging allegations against outgoing leader Douglas Ross.

Mr Ross stood down in June amid claims that, despite his protestations he would not stand for Westminster again, he had attempted to deselect a seriously ill colleague to take the candidacy in a notionally safe seat for himself.

He went on to lose the seat.

Mr Ross, who managed three jobs until the general election was called — working as a football linesman while serving as MP for Moray and MSP for the Highlands and Islands — now faces fresh allegations that he attempted to pressure Kathleen Robertson into stepping down as a candidate, telling her his “heart was in Westminster, not Holyrood.”

Mr Ross claims he was merely confirming she was “still committed to standing for the seat,” but tendering her resignation, Ms Gallacher told him said she was “deeply troubled” by the allegations. 

She added that as a leadership candidate herself: “I will not be able to assist you.”

SNP MP for Moray West, Nairn and Strathspey, Graham Leadbitter, commented: “If Douglas Ross’s heart isn’t in Holyrood he should resign.”

Ms Robertson was asked for comment.