We’ve been having a few problems with these of late – a technical problem with HQ Press Office and e-mail bouncing appears to be at fault. Whilst we continue to try to solve this…

• Greene responds to Findlay’s cost-of-living claims
• Slovenian election interference allegations: European democracy is not for sale

Greene responds to Findlay’s cost-of-living claims

Responding to Scottish Tory leader Russell Findlay’s claim that his party will put Scotland’s cost-of-living crisis front and centre of its campaign, Scottish Liberal Democrat Jamie Greene MSP said:

The Tories’ fiscal plans seem to be centered around making poorer people worse off to fund tax cuts at the top, not a huge surprise from a party which disgracefully thinks people on welfare are a drain on society.

They are shamelessly chasing Reform UK to the right, abandoning what principles they had left and churning out ever more extreme rhetoric – none of which offers the real positive change we need after two decades of failed SNP government.

The moderate Tory party of Ruth Davidson simply no longer exists, and this decayed version of it will not convince Scottish voters it can either stop the SNP or improve their daily lives. Their entire election campaign seems to be based on negative messaging.

Scottish Liberal Democrats want change too, but the big difference is I joined a party which promotes decency, tolerance and fiscal sensibility. We will leave the Tories to their desperate attempts to stay relevant.

Slovenian election interference allegations: European democracy is not for sale

Renew Europe is deeply concerned about reports that have emerged about possible foreign interference in the elections process in Slovenia. This is not the first time we see attempted interference in a European election and it marks a worrying trend, which demands a European level investigation and response. We call for a truly independent investigation, cooperation between institutions and immediate action. Without fair and free national elections, European democracy is under threat.

Renew Europe President Valérie Hayer said:

Elections must be free from any manipulation, domestic or foreign. What we are seeing is very concerning. The indications pointing towards Janez Jansa are serious and need a full, transparent investigation, including a European perspective. This is not just about Slovenia, it is a European issue. We must protect European democracy and the rule of law.

Renew Europe has taken the lead in the fight to tackle foreign interference and currently chairs the Special Committee on the European Democracy Shield (EUDS).

Helmut Brandstätter MEP, EUDS coordinator said:

I intend to raise this issue on a EU level in the committee. This is yet another wake up call for Europe. Decisive action against foreign information manipulation, strengthening platform accountability, and safeguarding elections on an EU-level must be our main priority. This is a question of our sovereignty and security. Our efforts for a centralised and enforceable framework that truly protects citizens, election integrity across Europe will continue.

Renew Europe is clear – the fundamental rights of citizens to vote and choose and sovereign and must remain so.