CORRI Wilson has challenged Conservative candidate Bill Grant to condemn the so-called rape clause.

The SNP candidate has written to Mr Grant asking him to “set the record straight” and “stand up for the constituents of Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock”.

Speaking on the issue, Ms Wilson said: “The rape clause is one of the worst policies to come from this increasingly shameful Tory Party. Time and time again this issue is coming up on the doorsteps – countless constituents share my disgust and agree that the rape clause should be immediately scrapped.

“If Bill Grant is keen to swap retirement from the local council for political office at Westminster, he needs to take some responsibility for his party’s actions on this issue.

“He was happy to turn his back on the 5,000 women in this constituency who are being adversely impacted by the Tory implementation of equalising the state pension age recently.

“I sincerely hope he will start standing up for the women of this constituency by joining me, women’s welfare groups, faith leaders, trade unions and child poverty campaigners in condemning this rape clause.

“The SNP has shown time and again that we are the only true opposition to the callous Tories at Westminster and my party will continue to be so after June 8.

“This election is a straight fight between the SNP and the Tories.

“And I hope the people of Ayr, Carrick and Cumnock put their trust in me once more to continue representing them at Westminster.”

The issue of the rape clause was first raised almost two years ago, in July 2015, when then Chancellor George Osborne announced controversial plans to cut child tax payments.

Campaigners argue that the policy is unworkable, and it is reported that similar proposals in the United States are being ditched amid concerns about their failure.