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Murdo Fraser has gained more support for his leadership bid after former Scottish Conservative MEPs John Purvis, John Corrie and James Provan gave their unanimous backing to Murdo Fraser’s leadership campaign.

They join the Scottish Conservative’s only current MEP, Struan Stevenson, who was one of Mr Fraser’s influential backers at the start of his campaign, as well as six MSPs and well over 40 Councillors so far. The former MEPs have all declared that they believe Murdo Fraser is the only leadership candidate who will safeguard Scotland’s best interests in the EU.

In a joint statement, the former MEPs said: “We have all known Murdo Fraser for some time and greatly admire the work he has done as Deputy Leader within the Party. We have been impressed, not only by his refreshing vision for the future, but by his commitment to strengthening the UK and ensuring that it can play a stronger card in European politics. We give him our wholehearted support.”

Murdo said: “I am delighted to receive this further backing from these highly respected individuals in the party. These three former, distinguished MEPs have given great service to our party and to politics in Scotland and I am greatly encouraged by their support and their commitment to my vision for the future.

“I welcome these endorsements which come from MEPs who represent a cross section of views within the party.

“Throughout this campaign, I will continue to focus on my positive ideas for the way forward and building a stronger centre-right progressive party which will start winning again.”