FORMER Scottish Tory leader Ruth Davidson has faced widespread calls to quit as an MSP after accepting a second job with PR firm Tulchan Communications.

Ms Davidson announced her decision in the Evening Standard on Wednesday, where it was revealed that she will be paid £50,000 for 24 days of work as a senior adviser.

Labour’s Neil Findlay MSP, who is currently pursuing a Bill banning second jobs for MSPs, said that Davidson had brought Parliament “into disrepute.”

He said: “Instead of standing up for her constituents in Parliament, she will be standing up for the firms that her bosses are paid to lobby for.

“If she wants to continue pocketing tens of thousands of pounds from this lobbying firm, she should resign as an MSP.”

He was echoed by SNP MP Stewart McDonald who said it was “simply unacceptable” to accept a lobbying salary while sitting as an MSP, adding: “She must forfeit one of them.”

Green MSP Alison Johnstone called the appointment “a clear conflict of interest” and demanded an Edinburgh Central by-election.

And Frances Ingham, director general of trade body the Public Relations and Communications Association, said the appointment “damages the reputation of both our industry, and of the political process.”

Ms Davidson resigned from the leadership in August, citing work-life balance and Brexit conflicts. She later said she intended to step down as an MSP at the 2021 Holyrood election.

A Scottish Conservative spokesman said the appointment was “well within” parliamentary and industry rules.

“She is able to complete the 16 hours a month it requires while still having more time for her family and constituency,” he said.

“Ruth is committed to seeing out her term as the MSP for Edinburgh Central.”