Statement: Dissolution of Parliament and upcoming General Election

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We anticipated an election this year, but last week’s announcement of it taking place in July certainly caught many of us by surprise.

Despite the unexpected timing, I remain unwavering in my commitment. I have never taken any election campaign or vote for granted, and this time is no different.

We are fully aware of the challenges ahead, but I am confident in my record as your MP. The dedication of my incredible team of volunteers ensures we will give it everything we’ve got, fighting for every single vote as we always do.

Reflecting on my time since being elected in 2015, I am proud to share that my office has handled over 20,000 cases and I have spoken in Westminster more than 1,200 times as well as submitted 1,900 Written Parliamentary Questions.

These numbers represent the hard work and commitment to serving you, the constituents of Kilmarnock and Loudoun. It has been the honour of my life to represent the constituency I have grown up in and always called home. I hope to continue in this role, ensuring your voices are heard loud and clear in Westminster.

The timing of this election, falling during the school holidays, once again demonstrates Westminster's disregard for Scotland and its electorate.

If you are planning to be away on holiday, please make sure to register for a postal or proxy vote. Additionally, check that you are registered to vote to exercise your democratic right. Remember, you will need ID to vote now. Accepted forms of Voter ID include a Passport, Driving Licence, Bus Pass, or Young Scot Card. If you do not possess any of these, you can apply for a free Voter Authority Certificate.

I have pinned the details for all this information on my social media accounts. Should you encounter any issues, please do not hesitate to contact the Kilmarnock and Loudoun Constituency Office at 01563 501412.

Let’s ensure every vote counts and no one is caught out.

Register to vote

Register for Postal Vote

Register for Proxy Vote

Voter ID Certificate

Press Release: Ban on Vape Advertising in Sport

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Last week, Alan Brown, MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun, attended an event at the House of Commons to show his support for banning vape advertising in sport.

The drop-in event was organised by Kirsten Oswald MP, member of Parliament for East Renfrewshire, who has long campaigned for such a ban.

Currently, advertising of vapes is banned on television, radio, and most online spaces, but vape companies can still sponsor sport kits and venues. High profile examples include Blackburn Rovers FC, who are sponsored by Totally Wicked Vapes, and whose matches appear on TV, watched by sports fans up and down the country, including many young people.

The number of young people vaping is at an all-time high. Statistics from Action in Smoking and Health show that 9.5% have tried vaping, with recent reports indicating that 7.6% are currently vaping. These are young people who have never smoked but are now being addicted to vaping.

In recent sessions of the Tobacco and Vapes Bill Committee, Sir Gregor Smith, the Scottish Chief Medical Officer, said, “Where I become very uncomfortable, and I am not supportive, is where the massive attraction of sports companies is used in a way that promotes behaviours that are known to be unsafe or unhealthy.”

As things stand, the Tobacco and Vapes Bill does not include a clause to ban vape sponsorship in sports, but there is increasing agreement that this will be necessary to close what is an unnecessary and harmful loophole.

Commenting, Alan Brown, Member of Parliament for Kilmarnock and Loudoun, said:

“The number of young people vaping today is deeply worrying, and we must use all levers at our disposal to tackle this issue. Vape advertising is already banned on television and radio, and it is time that this ban is extended to sponsorship in sports.”

“The influence of sports sponsorship on young minds cannot be underestimated. Allowing vape companies to sponsor sports teams and events sends a mixed message about the safety and acceptability of these products. It’s crucial that we protect our young people from being targeted by such marketing strategies.

“I commend Kirsten Oswald MP for her tireless efforts on this issue. Together, we will continue to push for the necessary legislative changes to protect our youth from the dangers of vaping.”

Busy Constituency Weekend

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I enjoyed yet another busy weekend in the constituency, filled with fantastic events.

On Saturday, I made my way to the Darvelo 24 cycling event - in Darvel of course! Then, I headed over to Newmilns Gala Day, always a highlight with its lively parade and performances.

After that, I visited the bustling Mauchline Holy Fair before returning to Newmilns—a perfect end to a day filled with community celebrations.

Having all three events on the same day was a unique and great experience.

Well done to everyone involved, especially the volunteers who made it all run smoothly.

Press Release: Above Adventure

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Last week Alan Brown MP visited Above Adventure in his constituency to see firsthand the strides they are making in community engagement.

The representative for Kilmarnock and Loudoun visited the site on the town’s Woodstock Street and was given a tour of the premises from founder Dean Pastulovic.

The MP has demonstrated long-standing support for the organisation by actively writing letters of support, aiding in their efforts to secure vital funding.

Above Adventure, a non-profit organisation run by a dedicated team of volunteers, staff and trustees, has become a focal point for community engagement and empowerment.

Volunteers, passionate about climbing and making a positive impact, are integral to the centre’s operations, facilitating outreach programs and acting as mentors for local youth.

Situated within the historic confines of the Grange Free Church, the organisation has repurposed the space into a vibrant hub for various activities.

The church, built in 1876, has been transformed to accommodate climbing facilities, a sensory room available for hire and communal workspaces. The innovative use of this heritage site underscores Above Adventure's commitment to preserving local history while fostering community development.

Commenting, Alan Brown MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun said:

“During my visit to Above Adventure, I was truly impressed by the innovative use of the old church space, and it was great to see the bell still ringing!

“What stood out for me was that this is more than just rock climbing; the cafe, sensory room and workspaces make it a true community hub. Dean, along with the dedicated staff, deserve so much credit for their efforts in creating a multifaceted community space. Their impactful outreach programs, benefiting local schools and army veterans, are particularly noteworthy.

“Despite initial challenges, their progress is commendable. This space is open to all, regardless of whether you're a rock-climbing enthusiast or not. I encourage constituents to experience it firsthand and witness the remarkable work being done there."

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Press Release: ArtClub? (Speaker's Art Fund)

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Local MP Alan Brown has lauded East Ayrshire's ArtClub? for its recent accolade of receiving £500 from the esteemed Speaker's Art Fund.

The representative for Kilmarnock and Loudoun played a pivotal role by nominating and providing a letter of support for the organisation. This support was crucial in securing the funding, underscoring a joint dedication to promoting artistic expression and community involvement.

ArtClub?, a vibrant community initiative based at the Dick Institute, is open to individuals from a care background in East Ayrshire spanning primary school age to early twenties. They offer a creative sanctuary where participants explore various forms of art, including drawing, painting, poetry, and filmmaking. The organisation's recent exhibition, Agora, at the Dick Institute showcased the transformative power of art and highlighted the talents of its members.

The £500 grant from the Speaker's Art Fund will enable ArtClub? to further expand its activities and provide valuable resources to its members. This achievement underscores the organisation's dedication to fostering creativity, resilience, and community spirit.

Commenting, the MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun said:

"I couldn't be happier for Eoghann and the entire team on securing this much-needed funding. Witnessing their outstanding work firsthand compelled me to support their nomination for the Speaker's Art Fund.

"Back in the summer, I had the pleasure of attending their exhibition, and I was truly blown away by the calibre of their artwork. Returning recently after learning of their £500 grant was fantastic.

“Witnessing the progress made by the participants was incredibly heartening, and spending time with them was a genuine honour. I had the opportunity to engage in conversations with them, and listening to their stories was truly humbling.

"I must commend Eoghann MacColl for his unwavering dedication and genuine commitment to empowering these young individuals. His remarkable rapport with them is truly inspiring, and it's evident that his passion for art is rubbing off on them. He's an exemplary role model.

"A huge congratulations to Eoghann, Haniah, and everyone involved with ArtClub?. I have every confidence that they will continue to flourish and make a positive impact. Keep an eye out for their upcoming exhibition later this year – if you have the chance, I highly encourage you to experience their artwork firsthand. You won't be disappointed."

Also commenting, Eoghann MacColl, Promise Participation Leader with East Ayrshire Health and Social Care Partnership, said:

“Within ArtClub? we support and nurture young people with care experience backgrounds through participation in creativity and activities. Our goal is to hear and share their narratives via the Care Experienced Cabinet as well as less formal pathways such as the ArtClub? where we can explore issues and topics through creativity and fun.  Being consistent and present is important, and we have great partners in the East Ayrshire Leisure Trust who enable us to do this.

“The nomination by Alan, our MP, for the Speakers Art Fund was a real honour and to then go on and be selected by the Panel for an Award was even better.  It’s always nice to be acknowledged for the good work you do, and we gladly accepted this as precisely that.

“Young care experienced people’s voices need to be heard, in line with the Promise and ArtClub? goes some way to providing that voice for young people in East Ayrshire and Alan’s Constituency of Kilmarnock & Loudoun.”

Additionally, James Whyte who attends ArtClub? and is an aspiring young poet added:

“ArtClub? feels incredibly honoured and grateful to be nominated and successful for the Speakers Art Fund.  The nomination represents recognition and acknowledgment of our artistic talent and the impact of our work.”

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Grand National Charity Bet 2024

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Huge thanks to the Betting and Gaming Council for their generous £50 charity bet on the Grand National at the weekend.

Had luck been on our side, all winnings would have gone directly to my selected charity, Killie Foodbanks. Killie Foodbanks is an organisation made up of dedicated Killie fans who selflessly support our local foodbanks. As part of Fans Supporting Foodbanks Scotland, their motto of #HungerDoesntWearClubColours resonates deeply with the community.

Their tireless efforts deserve recognition and applause. Football fans often face unfair stereotypes, but the work of Killie Foodbanks and similar initiatives shines a light on the true spirit of camaraderie and compassion within our communities.

They personify what it means to care for others regardless of club allegiances. Despite the horses not delivering a win, I'm pleased to announce that the Betting and Gaming Council will still be donating £250 to Killie Foodbanks. This contribution will go a long way in supporting their vital work, ensuring that those in need receive the assistance they deserve.

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Tartan Day Parade 2024

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As MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun, I've had the privilege of representing the rich tapestry of Scottish culture and heritage on various platforms.

However, nothing quite prepared me for the experience of participating in the Tartan Day Parade in New York City alongside my colleagues in the Scottish Affairs Committee. For those unfamiliar, Tartan Day is a celebration of Scottish heritage that takes place annually on April 6th, marking the signing of the Declaration of Arbroath in 1320, of course a pivotal moment in Scottish history.

It's a day filled with vibrant displays of tartan, traditional music and a sense of pride in Scottish identity. Walking through the bustling streets of Manhattan surrounded by the lively display of tartan and the sound of bagpipes, you couldn’t help but feel a surge of pride in Scottish culture. The global appeal of this celebration was evident as enthusiasts from around the world joined in the festivities.

What truly made this experience unforgettable, however, was the unexpected encounters with constituents amidst the throngs of parade-goers. It's remarkable to think that despite being over 3,000 miles away from Kilmarnock and Loudoun, I found myself bumping into familiar faces on the streets of New York City.

It served as a poignant reminder of the interconnectedness of our global community and the enduring bond that ties Scots together, regardless of geographical distance.

Participating in the Tartan Day Parade was a reminder of the enduring bond that unites Scots, no matter where they may find themselves.

It was a privilege to stand as a representative for my constituents in such an energetic environment – what an occasion!

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