Peeblesshire News | News | Purvis pulls out of leadership race

Thursday, 4th December, 2008

Published: Friday, 11th July, 2008 12:36

Purvis pulls out of leadership race

By David Knox

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PEEBLESSHIRE politician Jeremy Purvis has pulled out of the Lib Dems leadership race in Scotland.

The Tweeddale, Ettrick and Lauderdale MSP was linked with the top job within hours of Nicol Stephen standing down last Wednesday.

And the 34-year-old admitted to the Peeblesshire News on Thursday he was seriously considering following in the footsteps of his former boss – Sir David Steel – by leading the Lib Dems.

But after a weekend of consideration he decided not to stand.

Mr Purvis told us: “I have been very flattered that my name was immediately associated as a possibility for the leadership and also by the many people who have encouraged me to put my name forward over the last few days.

“But the time is not right.

“Since Nicol’s shock decision last week many people, locally and across Scotland, within and outwith the party have given me their support, and I have been very appreciative of their confidence in me.”

Mr Purvis worked as a research assistant for David Steel before embarking on his own political career.

And his former boss believes that Mr Purvis has the potential to one day lead the party.

Lord Steel of Aikwood said: “I have very high regard for Jeremy’s abilities.”

But it emerged on Monday that the contest for leadership will be a two-horse race between former cabinet ministers Ross Finnie and Tavish Scott.

Mr Purvis added: “With both Ross and Tavish standing we have the prospect of a highly competent and outstanding leader emerging from the contest.”

Borders MP Michael Moore will act as leader of the Lib Dems in Scotland until the leadership race is concluded.

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