People in Scotland back the Conservatives on a number of key issues, leader Ruth Davidson said today.                  

She joined activists in the centre of Edinburgh to hand out leaflets showing a range of policies which have widespread public support.

It comes as the party published a poll on the UK’s membership with the EU.

The YouGov survey found 43 per cent want to stay in the EU, but reduce the powers it has.

That compares to just 18 per cent who want the status quo.

Over the weekend, the Scottish Conservatives also revealed that most people back a cap on welfare payments, contrary to Labour and SNP claims that the party is out of step with social attitudes.

Today’s leaflet also highlights a recent poll showing support for independence has dropped to 42 per cent, while 54 per cent want to see controls on public spending.

Scottish Conservative leader Ruth Davidson said:

“The SNP and Labour like to claim they represent Scotland.

“But when it comes to reforming welfare, bringing back powers from the EU, on public spending, immigration and – most importantly – on keeping our UK together, it’s the Scottish Conservatives which best represent the majority view.

 “The facts bear it out – the Scottish Conservatives stand with Scotland.

 “It’s also clear that the Scottish Conservatives stand with Scotland on getting a better deal on the EU.

 “Like thousands of Scots, we want to renew our relationship with the EU so that more power is brought back to the UK and Scotland.

 “Only the Conservatives have a plan to deliver it through a referendum on EU membership in 2017.

 “That referendum is backed by a majority of Scots yet all the other main parties want to block it.

 “Our plan is clear – let’s have a referendum and let’s get a fresh deal in Europe.”

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