Last-minute Tory candidate changes spark controversy in Billericay and Basildon

In the 1980s, Banff and Buchan had a Tory MP named Albert McQuarrie, known as "the Buchan Bulldog". Douglas Ross, the leader of the Scottish Tories, is different from McQuarrie, more like a proud poodle. Recently, Mr. Ross decided to stand in a new area called Aberdeenshire North and Moray East, changing his mind about focusing only on Holyrood. At a news conference, he denied claims that the Scottish Tories mistreated someone who was sick. This change in plans shows that Mr. Ross, who used to be unsure, is now more uncertain. Some top Tories, including Mr. Ross and Richard Holden, were given seats suddenly, which critics find unusual and unfair. This makes them look self-serving and not considerate of local activists. Richard Holden, the Conservative chairman, was chosen last minute to stand in Basildon and Billericay, far from his previous constituency. This upset local members who felt they were not given a fair chance to choose a candidate. The process seemed rushed and not democratic. The national party's decision to impose candidates in safe seats has caused anger among local party members. The selection process has sidelined local members and given more power to the national party. The Conservative Party has faced criticism for the way they are quickly filling seats before the upcoming election. Some Tory advisers have been chosen to stand in safe seats, reducing the influence of local members in the selection process. The rush to fill seats has caused discontent within local party branches. The national party is using an accelerated process to fill target seats and those where MPs are stepping down or facing suspension.