It has been an honour to be the lead candidate for Change UK for election to the European Parliament for the Scotland electoral region.

This new party is genuinely a force for good in British politics.

After a great deal of reflection on the political landscape we are facing in Scotland at present, I have come to the point where I have realised that I must do what is best for the future of the country before anything else.

If things continue as they the Remain vote will split in Scotland and put at risk the representation that supporters of remaining in the EU so collectively desire.

For that reason, I have decided to end my candidacy for Change UK effective immediately.

I am now calling for those in favour of remaining in the European Union, including all supporters of Change UK in Scotland, to do what is best for our collective voice in Europe and to support the Scottish Liberal Democrats in the upcoming European election, to better ensure that they gain representation to secure a seat in these European Elections.