Another Scottish Tory defects to Farage's Reform UK
She noted: 'I am committed to being a strong voice for those who are too often unheard and to working tirelessly to ensure that every child, regardless of their needs, is given the opportunity to thrive. This is not just a political responsibility — it is a personal mission.
'Scotland has been abandoned by the two-party establishment, which continues to prioritise self-interests and party politics over genuine change," Knight added.
Lauren Knight represents Huntly in Aberdeenshire (Image: Aberdeenshire Council) The Huntly councillor's defection was presaged by the departure of four other Conservatives.
Former council chief Mark Findlater, Mearns councillor Laurie Carnie, Ellon councillor John Crawley, and East Garioch councillor Dominic Lonchay have also joined Reform UK.
Councillors Robbie Withey and John Cox have also signed up to the party, but continue to sit as independents.
Glasgow City Council's Thomas Kerr, who defected to Reform UK in January, travelled to Aberdeenshire to welcome Knight to the party.
Kerr said: 'Lauren Knight brings a wealth of knowledge and passion to Reform UK and I'm delighted to welcome her onto our team.
'We're now Scotland's fastest growing political movement and it's clear why – the SNP, Labour and Tories have broken Scotland. Reform is on a mission to fix it.'
Read more:
Aberdeen councillor Duncan Massey defects to Reform
Analysis: Scottish Tories face 'existential crisis' as Reform support grows
Finally, we have proof the BBC is helping Reform. It's become a danger to democracy
A Scottish Tory spokesman said: "Under Russell Findlay, we're reconnecting with common sense conservative values of enterprise, self-reliance, fiscal responsibility and the rule of law.
'Every poll shows that Reform will only help the SNP. As we saw in last year's general election, they handed several seats to the SNP which would have otherwise gone to a pro-UK party.
"Reform are likely to stand pro-independence candidates in the 2026 election and Nigel Farage has even said he's not worried about the SNP getting another five years in power.
'The Scottish Conservatives will continue to work hard to rebuild trust with disillusioned voters by holding the failing SNP Government to account and promoting common sense conservative values."
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