SCOTTISH Tory leadership candidate Russell Findlay has been warned by Police Scotland about a death threat against him.
The former journalist, who recently entered the contest to replace Douglas Ross, was the victim of an acid attack on his doorstep in 2015 following his reporting on Glasgow gangs.
William Burns was sentenced to a 10 years in prison having disguised himself as a postal worker and thrown sulphuric acid on Findlay before attacking him with a knife.
It has been reported he has a parole hearing next week where he could potentially be released early.
Police recently visited Findlay to warn him of a threat by a “known criminal” and that they had established a link between this person and Burns.
Findlay said: “I accept that holding powerful and dangerous people to account can come at a cost and I am therefore cautious by necessity.
“But you can’t run away from threats. It does not work. You have to be defiant and stand firm for what you believe in.”
Findlay added that there should also be “full transparency around parole and sentencing” hearings.
Police Scotland said it was unable to discuss individual cases but would always take “appropriate action”.
Assistant Chief Constable Andy Freeburn said: “We have well established relationships with elected representatives and regularly discuss security arrangements further with them.
“In addition, we work closely with UK policing colleagues to ensure all MSPs and MPs are aware of relevant personal safety advice.
“We thoroughly investigate any reports of threats made and take appropriate action where any offences are identified.”
Findlay is currently the only declared candidate for the Scottish Conservative leadership after Ross announced he would be standing down after four years in the role.
