Moray MP Douglas Ross has challenged local SNP MSP Richard Lochhead to stand up for his constituents and vote to commit to dualling the A96.
Douglas’ call comes ahead of the Scottish Conservatives bringing forward a debate in the Scottish Parliament tomorrow (Wednesday) calling on the SNP-Green government to outline when plans to dual the A96 as well as the A9 will be completed and committed to.
Douglas says that dualling the A96 is absolutely crucial for improving road safety across the communities of Moray as well as boosting the local economy.
He added that Richard Lochhead stood on a manifesto commitment to dual the A96 and cannot continue to pander to the demands of the Greens, who signed a coalition agreement with his party following the 2021 Scottish Parliament election.
Douglas called on Moray’s MSP to put his constituents first and vote with his conscience and back the Scottish Conservative motion, rather than putting his party first.
Moray MP Douglas Ross said: “It is time for Richard Lochhead to put the interests of his constituents in Moray ahead of the interests of his party when it comes to the A96.
“If he votes with their interests in mind tomorrow, then he will back the Scottish Conservative motion urging the SNP-Green government to outline their plans and reaffirm their commitment to dualling the A96.
“Richard Lochhead stood on a manifesto commitment to do just that. He and his SNP colleagues cannot continue to pander to the interests of their Green coalition partners and kick these much- needed upgrades into the long grass.
“They are absolutely paramount to improving road safety and avoiding accidents as well as delivering significant boosts to communities across Moray.
“The A96 is currently not fit for purpose and is a real risk to those who use it. These delays cannot continue for a moment longer.
“Richard Lochhead should vote with his conscience and vote against his party, otherwise he’ll be letting down his constituents in Moray once again when it comes to the road improvements they are crying out for.”