Published at 21:45, Wednesday, 25 February 2009

CONSERVATIVES in the Borders have written to Scotland’s Liberal Democrat leader asking him to explain why his party in Europe voted to end the UK’s opt-out from the European working time directive.

Roxburgh and Berwickshire MSP John Lamont and Westminster candidate for Berwickshire, Roxburgh and Selkirk, Chris Walker, highlighted the Lib Dems’ ongoing campaign in favour of keeping the opt-out.

Mr Lamont has contacted Tavish Scott seeking an explanation over why his Euro MEP voted in favour of proposals which will have an impact on retained firefighters, healthcare workers and many others.

Mr Walker said: “The level to which the Liberal Democrats will sink to cover up the fact that Elspeth Attwooll, the Scottish Liberal Democrat MEP, voted to end the UK’s opt-out is truly remarkable. The way in which Liberal Democrat politicians are acting is like snake oil salesmen. They say one thing to the press and do something different when they have the opportunity to do something positive about the situation.”

Mr Lamont said: “Perhaps it is time for the Scottish Liberal Democrats to accept their role in voting to end the UK’s opt-out from the working time directive and the major impact this may have on the future of retained firefighters and care workers in Scotland.

“Scrapping our opt-out is even more nonsensical in today’s economic climate. I will continue to fight to make sure the working time opt-out is kept to safeguard jobs and vital rural and remote emergency services.”

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