From Scotland on Sunday (free sub)

THE Scottish Tories have descended into all-out civil war after the resignations of former leader David McLetchie and MSP Brian Monteith triggered a new wave of dirty tricks allegations.

Party managers revealed there will be no let-up in their investigation into the downfall of McLetchie, whose friends have raised suspicions that Monteith's betrayal was part of a wider plot involving other senior Conservatives.

The vow to root out disloyal party members follows one of the darkest episodes in Scottish Tory history. First McLetchie was forced to quit over a row about his taxi expenses, and then Monteith resigned the party whip after admitting sending e-mails to this newspaper urging it to call for McLetchie's resignation.

Scotland on Sunday was set to publish the e-mails this weekend after Monteith, having clearly attempted to orchestrate McLetchie's downfall, appeared on television following his resignation to praise the former leader's time in office.

Scots Tories lose leader over Taxi expenses

The Edinburgh Pentlands MSP spent £11,500 during five years - more than any other MSP - but said the claims were made in good faith.

Mr McLetchie said he was standing down with a "heavy heart" but said he recognised that recent coverage had been damaging for the party.

His deputy, Annabel Goldie, will fill the role until a successor is chosen.