5th February 2024: A Week in Parliament
/Labour Backs Bankers Bonuses
In the midst of an escalating cost-of-living crisis, it's alarming to witness the Labour Party aligning itself with the Tories by endorsing the removal of the cap on bankers' bonuses. This decision, in essence, reflects a disregard for the struggles faced by ordinary people.
It raises questions about whether Starmer truly stands on the side of ordinary working families or aligns more with the interests of the wealthy Westminster elite. At the same time, it was revealed that Labour has accepted £2m in donations from the City. A co-incidence?!
Another Starmer U-Turn
His recent reversal on Labour’s £28 billion green investment pledge is deeply concerning, particularly for voters in Scotland. This decision has the potential to inflict severe damage, compromising our economic growth, energy security, skilled job opportunities, and inward investment. It is clear that only the SNP is willing to actively stand up for Scotland's energy interests. We aim to harness the full potential of the green energy wave sweeping across the US and EU, ultimately benefiting our economy.
10 Minute Rule Bill
This week I look forward to presenting a 10-minute Rule Bill to parliament on behalf of my constituents who have been affected by the changes to state pension age. Since being elected in 2015 I have worked alongside the WASPI Campaign in seeking to deliver justice for this scandal. More than 6,500 in Kilmarnock & Loudoun have been affected by this and my Bill urges the Secretary of State for the Department of Work & Pensions to publish compensation scheme proposals for these women. For as long as I am MP I will continue to fight this injustice.
Covid Inquiry
In these challenging times, the Scottish Government stands committed to a thorough examination of recommendations stemming from both the Scottish and UK public inquiries into the handling of the Covid-19 pandemic.
As we navigate through the complexities of the post-pandemic landscape, it is imperative that we learn from our experiences. The First Minister, Humza Yousaf, has openly acknowledged the existence of valuable lessons to be gleaned from the crisis. To ensure a comprehensive understanding, he has taken the proactive step of commissioning an externally led review specifically focused on the Scottish Government's use of mobile messaging apps and non-corporate technology.
It's crucial that we afford the inquiry the necessary time and space to identify areas of improvement in government decision-making during a pandemic. This reflective process is not about pointing fingers but about fostering a culture of continuous improvement.
Last week Nicola Sturgeon, the former First Minister, faced the Covid inquiry. In my view, she did an exemplary job in guiding our country through the most unprecedented times since the Second World War. Her leadership during the pandemic has been marked by resilience and a commitment to the well-being of the public. In many ways the WhatsApp hysteria misses the key considerations about what decisions and actions should and should not have been taken.
As we move forward, the Scottish Government remains dedicated to thoroughly responding to both the UK and Scottish Covid-19 inquiries. Learning from this self-reflection is crucial for our preparation for future pandemics.
