INVERCLYDE MP Ronnie Cowan has launched a scathing attack on new Prime Minister Theresa May – and her predecessor David Cameron.

After a dramatic week which saw a sudden change at 10 Downing Street, Mr Cowan criticised the former PM’s record in office, blaming him for increases in homelessness and foodbanks.

The SNP man also took a swipe at Mrs May, who was only appointed on Wednesday, for her performance as Home Secretary in Mr Cameron’s government – saying it does ‘not bode well’ for her premiership.

Mr Cowan told the Telegraph: “David Cameron has a ready wit and can turn on the charm but his record as prime minister is neither funny nor beguiling.

“During his term we have seen the number of three days’ emergency food packages given by Trussell Trust foodbanks increase from 61,500 to over 1,100,000.

“Homelessness has increased every year of his six-year tenure and due to his own party’s internal struggles we shall be leaving the EU and he has lost his own job.

“His successor, Theresa May, has previously led the charge to scrap the Human Rights Act, refused to rule out mass deportation of EU citizens and has immediately prioritised the £205 billion renewal of the Trident system.

“All of which does not bode well for her tenure.”
Mr Cowan has also issued a damning verdict on new Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson.

The controversial appointment of the former London Mayor by Mrs May has raised many eyebrows at home and abroad.

And Mr Cowan said: “I question her choice of Boris Johnson as Foreign Secretary, given his series of gaffes.

“In 2007 he compared Hilary Clinton to a ‘sadistic nurse in a mental hospital’.

“He also explained away President Obama’s support for the UK remaining in the EU as being down to his ‘part Kenyan’ ancestry.

“At a time when the UK is trying to redefine its position on the world stage I can’t imagine it will be long before he puts his foot in it again.”

The MP added: “Things didn’t get any better when Dr Liam Fox was also appointed to her cabinet.

“The former defence secretary resigned in disgrace in 2011.

“I was also surprised by Theresa May’s rush to remind people that she represents the Conservative and Unionist Party, placing the emphasis on unionist.

“At this stage I would have thought she would be trying to build bridges not pick fights.

“The new prime minister is pledged to negotiate the UK’s exit from the EU despite fighting a campaign to remain in.

“I suspect a lot of her time shall be spent trying to heal wounds within her own party rather than addressing the burning injustice in British society that she has promised to.”