26th February 2024: A Week in Parliament

Sir Lindsay Hoyle

I am deeply concerned about the recent actions of the Speaker of the House of Commons, Sir Lindsay Hoyle. After last week's antics, I feel his position is untenable. Along with more than 70 other MPs, we have signed the Early Day Motion stating we have no confidence in him. The Speaker's role should be impartial, yet it was not evident in the recent events. For Labour to take control of the SNP Opposition Day Debate, which we only get three a year, was unacceptable. Furthermore, for the SNP not to be allowed to vote on their motion in an Opposition Day Debate is scandalous. Hoyle ripped up the rulebook to take the heat off of Keir Starmer. The Speaker's rationale for prioritizing security over debate shifted dramatically. Despite citing the need for wide discussion, suddenly security became paramount, implying the SNP Motion endangered lives. Are we now letting mob-rule dictate House business?

In an interview with Channel 4, Labour MP Chris Bryant openly admitted that Labour manipulated the rules to get what they wanted. What more evidence do you need? Their actions also delayed the start of the debate by about 40 minutes and the decisions they forced Hoyle into also cut 40 minutes from the end of the debate, yet they claim all they cared about was the substance of the debate.

It's clear that the Speaker's actions have undermined the integrity of the House of Commons and the democratic process. It's time for a change. Once again, the disdain Westminster has shown for Scotland's voice was unmistakable.

Ceasefire in Gaza

Despite the circus of last week, I am pleased Labour has changed its position, after SNP and public pressure, and we can now work towards a ceasefire in Gaza. Our calls for the UK to back an immediate ceasefire have always been about forcing the UK Government to use every lever it has to achieve an immediate ceasefire. Since the UK Parliament voted against a ceasefire in November, 29,000 Palestinian children, women, and civilians have been killed - and vast swathes of Gaza have been destroyed. While the appalling spectacle at Westminster has been deeply unedifying, some progress has been made. The SNP will now move the debate forward and press the UK parliament to back concrete actions to secure an immediate ceasefire. Public and SNP pressure has forced the next Prime Minister, Sir Keir Starmer, into a U-turn - now we need to work together to force the current UK Government to change its position too. We must stand together to end the violence and suffering in Gaza.

Titch Coffee House

I am delighted that a new business will be opening up on Titchfield Street and making use of an empty space. Credit to Stuart and his wife Becky for the wonderful work they have carried out and looking to improve the area. I know Stuart well through our mutual love of Kilmarnock F.C. and I have no doubt this will be a roaring success and will add to the businesses already on Titchfield Street, including Café City where my staff frequent often! The more businesses and empty spaces being filled the better. I look forward to attending the opening on Thursday (29th February) evening.