RUTH Davidson will not take up a second job with PR firm Tulchan Communications.

The Edinburgh Central MSP has drawn criticism by taking on a £50,000-a-year public relations job at the international agency and setting up her own firm, Kirkholm Broadlands, with partner Jen Wilson on top of her political day job.

Yesterday George McGregor, co-chair of the UK Public Affairs Board, called on Davidson to “stand down” to “avoid any conflicts of interest”.

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The former Scottish Tory leader has now opted not to take up the PR role.

A statement from Davidson reads: “The debate in Scotland about my taking an advisory role with Tulchan Communications has become increasingly contentious.

“I, and Tulchan, have therefore agreed not to proceed with the appointment.

“I saw this role as an opportunity to help businesses improve their offerings to staff, raise standards in the supply chain, increase diversity and embrace environmental responsibilities.

“I sat down with Scottish Parliamentary officials in advance to go through the code of conduct, in detail, in order to avoid any conflict and to ensure I would be working within the rules at all times. The role reflected this.”

Despite appearing to reject criticism that the second job would be “incompatible” with her Holyrood role, Davidson said she would prioritise her political responsibilities.

She added: “The consensus view from political opponents and commentators is that working to improve businesses’ understanding of the cares and concerns of people is somehow incompatible with my role as an MSP.

“So if I am asked to choose between Holyrood and this role, then I choose the parliament I have dedicated the last nine years to, eight as party leader, a decision Tulchan supports.

“I would like to thank Tulchan for asking me to take on the role.

“They are an advisory firm of the highest quality and they too have received their share of criticism, which this role and their intentions did not deserve.

“Throughout this process they have behaved with the utmost integrity and have shown me every support and understanding.

“I wish them continued success in the future and will be sorry not to be working with them at this time.”

READ MORE: Ruth Davidson left red-faced after embarrassing PR website gaffe

Today, The National revealed that Davidson’s hopes of managing the online presence of her management consultancy firm had been scuppered after four different website addresses in the name of her company were purchased by a disgruntled voter.

On the Tory MSP’s decision to step down from Tulchan, senor partner Andrew Grant commented: “We share Ruth’s decision not proceed with her role with us.

“It is a great shame as we believe that she would have encouraged business to be bolder in addressing the issues of concern to their stakeholders.

“Scotland, and the people of Edinburgh Central are lucky to have her.”