The MEP for Scotland was in the area to lend his support to Dr David Montgomery in the run up to May’s General Election.

He was joined by Jackson Carlaw, Conservative MSP for West of Scotland, at the party’s latest rally at Mearns Castle Golf Academy.

Mr Duncan spoke about his experience in Europe and the importance of Scotland having a strong voice in Brussels.

He said: “The SNP make a great deal of noise about standing up for Scotland in Europe but are conspicuous by their unwillingness to stand up for the people they claim to represent in the European Parliament.

“They cannot be trusted in Europe and they cannot be allowed to prop up Ed Milliband in Westminster.

“The Conservatives are the only party that have promised to give the country an in/out referendum on membership of the EU. The only way we can guarantee this is to elect a Conservative government. By electing David Montgomery as your MP, you will help to make this a reality.” Latest polls show the Torys trailing in East Renfrewshire, a seat currently held by Scottish Labour leader Jim Murphy, with 27 per cent of the vote, behind Labour on 33 per cent and the SNP on 31 per cent.

However Dr Montgomery believes that the state of internal affairs within the Scottish Labour party will aid his campaign for election in May.

Dr Montgomery added: “I am delighted to have the support of Ian Duncan MEP. Europe is one of the key issues of this election and Ian’s experience and knowledge is an invaluable resource. I look forward to working with him in the coming weeks.

“Labour are in disarray and the SNP continue their relentless pursuit of independence even after losing the referendum. A vote for either would put Ed Milliband in Downing Street.