22nd May 2023: A Week in Parliament

Brexit Impact on Scotland

Scotland's consumers and farmers have been severely let down by the self-serving pride of the Tory Government, which prioritises its own interests over the food security of Scotland. Brexit has brought no advantages to Scotland's food and drink industry, instead making it more difficult for farmers and fishers. As people struggle to feed their families, valuable produce is left to waste in the fields due to the disastrous mismanagement of the Tories. The SNP has highlighted five key areas where their action is damaging food security in Scotland; seafood shortages, reduced agricultural workforce, declining exports, uncertain funding for farmers and harming trade deals. The consequences of their failed agenda are hitting families hard, with record-high food bank usage and rising prices. Despite Scotland not voting for Brexit, we are bearing the brunt of its consequences. Independence would provide us with the opportunity to free ourselves from the turmoil of a failed Brexit and regain the security and prosperity offered by rejoining the European Union.

Constituent Success

I was pleased to assist my constituent Ahmed and his family once again, especially after raising their case in the House last year. It resulted in Ahmed's family in Syria being able to join him here in Kilmarnock, and I am grateful that we achieved a successful reunion for them. However, they encountered ongoing challenges with their Biometric Residence Permits, and I am proud to say that my staff once again secured a positive outcome for the family. Recently, I had the opportunity to catch up with Ahmed at the Ayrshire Muslim Education Centre, where I not only enjoyed a fantastic Iftar meal but also had the privilege of participating in their joyful celebrations.

Kilmarnock F.C.

As you may have noticed, I have dedicated a fair chunk of my column to Kilmarnock Football Club this season. Every week almost feels like a do-or-die situation for the club, but I am afraid this week it really is. We are now at the stage where it is proper crunch time for Scotland’s oldest professional football club. The result on Saturday (1-0 loss to St Johnstone) was a sore one – but yet again we find ourselves in the fortunate position where we have not been punished for this slip-up given both Dundee United and Ross County lost as well, therefore, no ground was given up. It looks as though a thousand or so will travel to Tannadice on Wednesday night to get behind the lads in the penultimate game of the season. The fans have been top-class all season and have followed the club in their numbers up and down the country no matter how poor the away form has been – fingers crossed that their faith can be repaid. Then onto Ross County at home on Sunday, which could be a final-day shootout! It is in our own hands, let’s keep the faith.