We, the concerned supporters and enthusiasts of Scottish rugby, call upon the Scottish Rugby Union (SRU) to take immediate action and remove Ruth Davidson from her position as Non-Executive Director. This petition aims to shed light on the reasons why her continued presence in this role is detrimental to the values and integrity of our beloved sport.

1. Conflict of Interest:
Ruth Davidson's appointment as a Non-Executive Director raises concerns regarding conflicts of interest. As a prominent politician affiliated with the Conservative Party, she holds strong political biases that may influence decision-making within the SRU. It is essential that individuals in such positions remain impartial and focused solely on promoting fair play and development within rugby.

2. Lack of Relevant Experience:
While we acknowledge Ruth Davidson's achievements in politics, it is crucial to highlight her lack of experience or expertise directly related to rugby administration or management. The SRU should prioritize appointing individuals who possess relevant knowledge and understanding of our sport's intricacies, ensuring effective governance for its growth.

3. Questionable Commitment:
Ruth Davidson has recently taken up several high-profile roles outside politics, including directorships at various organizations. This raises concerns about her ability to dedicate sufficient time and effort towards fulfilling her responsibilities as an SRU board member effectively.

4. Undermining Diversity:
The inclusion of diverse perspectives within sports governance is vital for fostering inclusivity and representing all stakeholders adequately. By maintaining Ruth Davidson's position without addressing these valid concerns, the SRU risks undermining its commitment to diversity by prioritizing political affiliations over merit-based appointments.

5. Impact on Public Perception:
The presence of a politically polarizing figure like Ruth Davidson within the SRU can lead to public skepticism about its independence from external influences or agendas unrelated to rugby development itself. Maintaining transparency in sports governance is paramount for maintaining public trust and support.

We urge the Scottish Rugby Union to prioritize the best interests of Scottish rugby by removing Ruth Davidson from her position as Non-Executive Director. By doing so, the SRU can demonstrate its commitment to impartiality, expertise, and inclusivity within its governance structure.

Sources:
1. "Scottish Rugby Union Board Members" - Scottish Rugby Union website
2. "Ruth Davidson's Political Affiliations" - Verified news sources (please refer to relevant media outlets)
3. "Importance of Diversity in Sports Governance" - Research articles or studies on sports governance and diversity

Note: For links to sources mentioned above, please refer to the original petition on Change.org.