Cold Weather Payment and Big Energy Saving Month

Alan Brown MP is calling on his constituents to check if they are eligible for the latest Cold Weather Payment.  

The Department for Work and Pensions (DWP) announced that residents of Kilmarnock and Loudoun may be eligible for a payment of £25 due to the recent freezing temperatures.  

Those in receipt of certain benefits such as Universal Credit and Pension Credit may be eligible for the payment. To trigger the payments, the average temperature at a specified weather station must be recorded as, or forecast to be, 0°C or below for seven consecutive days. 

The alert was triggered last week (11thJanuary) for the period between 4th January and 10th January 2021. 

And the MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun is asking his constituents to check their eligibility:  

“This time of year can be difficult at the best of times never mind the current situation we all face. As we all have to do our part to save lives and protect the NHS by staying home in the fight against the virus, it is only natural we are going to use more heating, gas and electricity.  

“I hope for those who are eligible that this payment will make a difference and soften the blow for what is a financially uncertain time for most people.  

“If you are in receipt of either; Pension Credit, Income Support, income-based Jobseeker’s Allowance, income-related Employment and Support Allowance, Universal Credit or Support for Mortgage Interest then you may be eligible for this £25 payment.  

“After sharing on my social media platforms I have been contacted by some constituents who are frustrated that they are not entitled to this because they are not in receipt of the benefits listed. I would like to reinforce my stance that it is vital we must continue to support the most vulnerable in our society. I appreciate the pandemic is affecting every single person just now, but it is important to remind ourselves that the vulnerable are still in need of our support, we cannot let that slip. 

“I’d also like to draw attention to Big Energy Savings Month which is a campaign run by Citizens Advice Bureau which commenced last week and runs for the whole of January. 

“Recent figures released by the Scottish Government revealed 1 in 4 households in Scotland (over 600,000 households) find themselves in fuel poverty and official estimates suggest this could rise to 29 per cent of households as a result of the pandemic. With this in mind, Big Energy Saving Month is looking to raise public awareness of the simple changes people can make to help them save this winter.  

“I would encourage my constituents to visit Citizens Advice Bureau’s website and social media channels or contact Energy Advisor Linda Corbett directly for more information on how to get involved.” 

Useful Links:

Cold Weather Payment

Big Energy Saving Month

East Ayrshire Citizens Advice

Note: Picture with Linda Corbett from East Ayrshire CAB is from last year’s event

Cold Weather Payment

I am calling on my constituents to check if they are entitled to DWP's Cold Weather Payment.

A payment has been triggered between the period of 4/1/2021 to 10/1/2021.

If you are in receipt of benefit you may be entitled to this £25 payment.

For more information please visit their website

Video: Alan Brown calls out Labour for ditching devolution

Labour went missing when the country needed them to stand up and deliver for devolution.

I won't allow them rewrite history.

Watch HERE

MP writes to Centrica CEO

Alongside 140 cross-party MPs, Alan Brown signed a letter to Centrica’s CEO Chris O’Shea.

The letter demands O’Shea to scrap the fire and rehire threat and get back to the negotiating table with GMB Union.

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MP backs Scottish Renewable energy Festival

Tweet:

Scotland’s renewable energy sector displaces millions of tonnes of carbon each year and brings significant socio-economic benefits to some of the country’s most rural areas. I’m supporting the 2020 Scottish Renewable Energy Festival #SREF20 @ScotRenew

More info: https://bit.ly/3hc1tik

MP Signs EDM 832

Last week, the Climate and Ecological Emergency Bill Alliance thanked Alan Brown MP for joining [63] other MPs in signing the House of Commons resolution, Early Day Motion 832, in support of the Bill.

The new legislation - known as the CEE Bill - was drafted by expert scientists, lawyers and academics, and sets a viable pathway for the UK to follow by:

• Requiring the Government to ensure that the UK reduces greenhouse gas emissions in line with its legally-binding international obligations to limit global heating to 1.5°C above pre-industrial levels

• Requiring the Government to protect and restore habitats, woodlands, wetlands and the wider natural world

• Establishing a representative Citizens’ Assembly to involve people from all parts of the UK in deciding which policies are needed to avoid irreversible environmental damage.

Supporter of the CEE Bill, Alan Brown MP said: “Climate change is very real and the most serious issue facing the planet. I will do all I can to help enact the CEE Bill before the UN climate conference in Glasgow next November. The CEE Bill is a great opportunity to bring climate action and restore the natural world. It offers a viable route to tackle the environmental crisis. I am calling on the Prime Minister to ensure the Bill becomes law.

“I was delighted to sponsor EDM 832: Climate and Ecological Emergency Bill which draws parliament’s attention to the bill.

“In my role as SNP Spokesperson for Energy and Climate Change it is imperative I support any progressive and logical action to try and preserve the planet the best we can. At this moment we are seeing a rapid decline in our climate. From wildfires in California to the Antarctic melting away, we simply cannot sit on our hands and let this happen.  

“If the UK has any hope of achieving net zero by 2050 then we must act now. Of course, the Scottish Government have the target of getting to net zero five years earlier in 2045 and are well on course to achieving this.  

“With the UK set to co-host the UN Climate Change Conference in 2021, this Bill calls for the Westminster Government to play their role in the collective goal limiting global temperatures to 1.5°C.   

 “It highlights a number of ways this can be achieved; by taking account of the UK's entire carbon footprint, including consumption emissions released overseas as a result of goods manufactured abroad for use in the UK - as well as protecting and restoring our ecosystems".”

Dr. Amy McDonnell, from the CEE Bill Alliance, said: “The UN Intergovernmental Panel on Climate Change has warned that any increase above 1.5°C will have disastrous effects on our planet, causing sea levels to rise, the loss of homes for millions of people and irreversible damage to Earth’s natural systems.  The Bill is the UK’s best and last chance to meet the Paris Agreement 1.5°C commitment and limit the impact of catastrophic climate change.  

Ahead of the UN Climate Conference in Glasgow next November (COP 26), MPs must ensure that Britain fulfils its international obligations and prevent runaway climate change.  All of us need to be involved in choosing the best solutions, and that’s why a Citizens’ Assembly is essential.”

MP Calls for Extension of Furlough Scheme

Alan Brown MP has pleaded with the chancellor to extend the furlough scheme to save jobs.

The representative for Kilmarnock and Loudoun has written to Rishi Sunak asking him to extend the furlough scheme in order to safeguard jobs and businesses.

The letter signed by all SNP MPs highlights businesses face a triple hit of laying off thousands of staff due to Treasury support being pulled, bracing for the impact of a second wave of coronavirus cases and further restrictions being introduced. As well as navigating the damaging economic consequences of Brexit as the Tories charge towards a bad deal or a no-deal exit.

This week, Mahle announced its plans to cut up to 45 of the 181 workers in its Kilmarnock plant. Analysis from the Scottish Government shows that extending the furlough scheme by eight months could save around 61,000 jobs in Scotland.

Commenting, Alan Brown MP said: “Of course, I am bitterly disappointed with the news this week that Mahle in Kilmarnock had planned on issuing redundancies. I received updated correspondence from the company who detailed that this moment in time, the number of redundancies was 17 – and that they hoped this would be found on a voluntary basis.

“Although this is still heart wrenching news, it is positive that this was not as bad as initial fears of up to 45 jobs set to be lost. Having said that, there are clearly ongoing concerns about the possible future losses which means ongoing worries for all the workers at the plant.

"This year we have already seen the disastrous effects of the pandemic hit Wabtec, and now sadly Mahle.

“We in Kilmarnock know only too well the devastation caused by industry being ripped out the heart of the town, that is why I will do everything in my power to try and prevent these job losses. I have already written to Unite the Union and Mahle directly offering support and anything they would like me to raise with the UK Government.

“It is clear that the extension of the furlough scheme will save jobs, not just in Kilmarnock and Loudoun, but up and down the whole of the UK.

"The Chancellor once pledged that he would 'do whatever it takes' to protect the economy, but he is now setting the country up for a winter of significant and entirely avoidable redundancies. 

"Rather than abandoning workers and employers in their time of need, the Tory government must U-turn on its plans, move to extend the scheme into 2021, and fix the gaps in support to ensure no one is left behind.

"The Scottish Government's calls for the devolution of financial powers needed to protect our economy have been completely ignored and, without consultation with the devolved governments, the UK government has scrapped the Budget - putting Scottish budget plans at risk.

"By withholding the investment and powers required, scrapping the Budget, and threatening an extreme Brexit, the Tory government is confirming that only by becoming an independent country can we properly protect Scotland's interests."

MPs call the government to tackle supermarkets' 653,000 tonnes of plastic waste

MPs call the government to tackle supermarkets' 653,000 tonnes of plastic waste

A cross-party group of MPs have called for new targets to stop thousands of tonnes of supermarket plastic waste each year. 

A motion laid by Geraint Davies, Swansea West MP, notes that supermarkets annually use 114 billion pieces of single use plastics, which amounts to 3,000 747 jumbo jets worth of waste. 

Alan Brown MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun who signed the motion, said: “Hundreds of constituents have contacted me about tackling the plastic problem, with many switching to reusable bags and bottles or flasks. 

“Despite these efforts they haven’t been able to avoid their food being covered in unnecessary plastic packaging in the supermarkets.

“After a lot of warm words, the government must take decisive action with ambitious targets to focus minds on reducing our plastic footprint and stopping single use plastic entering our oceans.”

The motion notes that leading supermarkets in the UK fail to provide detailed data on the amount of plastic they use and therefore calls for greater transparency. 

The Environment Bill, which is due to return to Committee next month, puts new targets on exporting plastic waste to third countries, but does not include domestic use of plastics.

Alan Brown MP takes part in virtual Kiltwalk

The MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun has taken part in the Kiltwalk challenge for the third year in a row.

Last weekend, Mr Brown walked 25-miles from Glenbuck to Failford in aid of Ayrshire Cancer Support. The MP has previously walked on behalf of the charity as well as other local charities like Break the Silence.

The event was initially meant to take place in Glasgow back in April but had to be cancelled due to the ongoing pandemic. Therefore, Kiltwalk bosses decided to make the event virtual to enable participants to fundraise for their respective charities.

The MP took part this year by walking from Glenbuck in his constituency into the hamlet of Failford with his wife and youngest son.

Commenting, the MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun said:

“I was delighted to take part in this year’s Kiltwalk, even though it was only virtual! I was looking forward to doing the official and organised Kiltwalk in Glasgow back in April but due to the current restrictions this was the only feasible option.

“The walk itself was beautiful and very scenic. I am a big fan of the Scottish countryside and it was a pleasure to walk the route for such a great cause.

“The walk burnt us out, but we couldn’t get enough as myself and youngest son Dylan ended up taking on the nine-mile stomp from Failford to Ayr the day after!

“I have previously walked for Ayrshire Cancer Support who carry out unbelievable work on a daily basis. Since my election as MP in 2015 I have worked closely with the charity, but I have supported them for many years. The work they do is nothing short of remarkable as they provide essential help and support to cancer sufferers and their families. 

“Everyone knows at least one person who has battled cancer as it affects all different walks of life, all creeds and all colours. I have had close friends and families who have fought against it and therefore I cannot emphasise enough the importance of raising awareness for this cruel disease. Everyone can play their role in this; every action can make a massive difference. 

“The walk was also completed in memory of my good friend Johanna Collins who sadly lost her battle with cancer back in June. Johanna did so much charitable work whilst fighting her own battle, this made Saturday’s walk extra special.” 

You can donate to Ayrshire Cancer Support here: 

https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/alan-brown68?newPage=True

MP demands extension of furlough

Alan Brown MP demands chancellor extend furlough scheme.

The representative from Kilmarnock and Loudoun has called on chancellor Rishi Sunak and the UK government to extend the furlough scheme after latest figures show a huge rise in Universal Credit claims.

Figures from the House of Commons Library has found more than a 44% increase in claimants from Kilmarnock and Loudoun since the beginning of lockdown. As of this week, there are 5,040 claimants in the constituency (an increase of 2,230 since March). The data details Kilmarnock and Loudoun is being hit harder than other parts of the country as 8.3% of the constituency is currently claiming, compared to the 6.5% UK average.

The figures also showed more than a 50% increase for the 18-24 demographic, with a total of 1,065 young people claiming – up 535 since March.

Commenting, Alan Brown MP said:

“I am concerned at the increase in unemployment in Kilmarnock and Loudoun. It shows that the chancellor must extend the furlough scheme or things will be even worse. A figure of 8.3% is worrying enough.

“What makes this worse

“I am also upset that the numbers of unemployed in the 18-24 age group has doubled in a six-month period.

“We cannot have another lost generation.

I welcome the Scottish Government’s guarantee job scheme for those in this age group. Scottish Government funding for youth work is being increased by more than 30% to recognise the vital role the sector will play in making up any ground lost in learning during the pandemic.

“A newly created £3 million Youth Work Education Recovery Fund will be targeted at those communities and young people who need the most support, bringing Government spending in the youth work sector this year to at least £12.5 million.

“The UK Government’s Kickstart scheme is also good news. However, they need to do more -extend the furlough and provide additional targeted support to sectors hit hard.

“Additionally, they still need to provide support for those excluded from the support schemes to date. I have conveyed my support for this in the chamber and online, I have also written to the chancellor on several occasions pleading with him to extend the furlough scheme.

“Supporting these people will also provide additional money for the local economy.”

Video: MP asks UK Gov for apology over "Trumpian language"

@AlanBrownSNP: I asked the UK Government to apologise after the Home Office published a video attacking "activist lawyers" for trying to protect asylum seekers. This Trumpian language will only further fuel the tensions of the hostile environment this government has created.

View video here

Alan Brown MP writes to UK Gov over food standards

The MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun joined the recent Which? campaign demanding the government makes commitments to protect the UK's high food standards.

Tweeting, Mr Brown said: “I've joined @WhichUK in writing to the UK government to ask for urgent clarification on their commitments on food standards. For trade deals to earn public support it's vital food standards are upheld. #SaveFoodStandards”

Along with several other cross-party MPs, the representative for Kilmarnock and Loudoun added his name to the letter to Liz Truss, Secretary of State for trade, and George Eustice, Secretary of State for DEFRA.

Back in June, Alan Brown MP received a number of constituent emails regarding the protection of food standards.

Facemask donation to Loudoun Academy

MP teams up with local company to deliver facemasks to secondary school  

 This week, the MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun visited his old school where he handed over facemasks on behalf of local company Jiffy Ltd.  

 The company based in Galston kindly donated 30 washable and reusable facemasks to pupils at Loudoun Academy.  

 Jiffy Ltd. is a new start-up company who provide face masks and sanitiser holders in line with the so called ‘new normal’ – i.e. life under Coronavirus.  

 Mr Brown was asked by the creator of Jiffy Ltd., Will Harding, to donate the masks on their behalf after the MP purchased his own personal masks from the company.  

 Commenting, the MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun said: “Jiffy, a new start-up company, kindly donated a box of 30 washable and reusable facemasks to Loudoun Academy and I was delighted to hand it in on their behalf. 

“The new guidelines issued by the Scottish Government state that teachers and students at secondary school must wear masks in corridors and communal areas. Therefore, the timing of the delivery couldn’t have been more perfect. The pupils, teachers and staff are all working hard to ensure everyone is following the guidelines and I have no doubt these masks will be put to good use.   

 “I initially ordered my own masks online and was delighted to find out Jiffy were based locally. Their service was top-class, and the quality of the facemasks are second to none of course they are all in line with current PPE regulations. I purchased some Scotland themed masks for myself, but on their website there is a wide selection of masks for all tastes.” 

 You can contact Jiffy via their website, email, telephone, and twitter: 

Jiffyltd.com 

Info@jiffyltd.com  

07770443355 

@jiffyltd  

Opeanreach deliver fibre broadband after MP pressure

Back in 2018, Alan Brown MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun opened talks with BT bosses and the local authority over the prospect of fibre broadband in his hometown of Newmilns.   

 The SNP MP was contacted by a host of constituents and local businesses regarding poor connectivity in the area which resulted in Mr Brown raising the issue in parliament.   

 After initially being told a fibre broadband cabinet was out of the question, the MP made a series of enquiries to Openreach and Ayrshire Roads Alliance before taking it to Westminster where he raised it during a House of Commons Committee meeting.   

 Now, after two-years, the representative for Kilmarnock and Loudoun’s persistence has paid off. BT Openreach has now installed a new fibre broadband cabinet in the heart of Newmilns.   

 Commenting, Mr Brown said:   

“Having been contacted by several local residents, businesses, and tourist premises in the village frustrated by the poor service, I was told the cabinet was considered "not commercially viable".  However, as a former civil engineer, I was keen to understand exactly what the underlying issue was, especially as this cabinet was on Main Street in Newmilns and several adjacent streets in the village already received full fibre broadband.    

“It turns out the initial work to install the cabinet was aborted by BT Openreach due to the failure to agree a suitable location between BT, the Council and Ayrshire Roads Alliance - with issues around underground utility services being cited as the main problem.  

“This was not a satisfactory position as far as I was concerned and I struggled to accept that some form of practical solution to deal with the underground utility constraints - or a more suitable alternative location - could not be found in this instance.  

“That is why during an Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (EFRA) Committee hearing with the Openreach UK Strategic Managing Director I was able to use this unresolved cabinet matter as an example of how businesses, community groups and individuals linked to this particular cabinet were receiving an inferior service.   

“Obviously, as MP I want to do my utmost to ensure that all viable options are considered and that any disparity in service is resolved for my constituents.    

 “I understand that it is not always easy to find suitable practical and commercial solutions, however I was very pleased to hear that the Openreach Strategic Director agreed to have this cabinet location investigated further and a proper solution has now been completed.”  

One local business which will benefit greatly with the new installation will be Lamlash House in Newmilns.  

Commenting, Johnathan Muirhead, joint owner of Lamlash House said:  

“Despite being told by our service provider some time ago that an improved broadband service was not feasible in a part of Newmilns, Alan Brown MP has worked hard to convince them to get the project back on track.  

“The enhanced service will mean that businesses like Lamlash House will be able to enjoy a broadband quality which is essential for us to operate effectively in today’s business environment.” 

Exiting Phase Three

Today the First Minister has announced that gyms and contact sport training is to be permitted as of Monday 31st of August.

Again, this is extremely welcome news, but we must continue to be vigilant with the virus and stick to the current guidelines to ensure these restrictions are lifted.

Details below:

24th August

Reopening of:

• Amusement Arcades

• Bingo Halls

• Casinos

• Funfairs

• Snooker Halls

• Driving lessons can resume

Return of non-contact sport for all ages.

Live events (concerts etc.) are permitted outdoors with restricted numbers, physical distance and hygiene measures in place.

 31st August

Reopening of:

• Gyms

• Swimming Pools

• Indoor Sports

•  Indicative Dates

 14th September

Reopening of:

• Soft Plays

• Theatres

• Indoor Live Music

Sports stadia set to open with restricted numbers, physical distance and hygiene measures in place.

More people will be permitted to attend wedding receptions and funeral wakes, however there will still be a restriction on numbers.

These measures will be reviewed on Thursday 10th September. Also note, the proposed reopening of live music events does not include nightclubs.