Monday May 10th 2021
This is the acceptance speech of Colin Beattie, SNP, the successful candidate in the Midlothian North & Musselburgh constituency.
This has certainly been an exceptional election which has been held in very trying circumstances. Campaigning has been difficult and I hope we never have to repeat this experience. If it has been difficult for the political parties and their activists I recognise that it has also been difficult for the returning officer, the count staff, staff at polling places, police officers, first aiders and many more who worked so hard to ensure that the democratic process could continue in a pandemic. Please accept my sincere thanks.
I would like to thank the voters of Midlothian North & Musselburgh who have again put their trust in me. Let me assure you that this trust will not be misplaced.
I would also thank my political opponents for conducting their campaigns with respect and dignity during this strange election.
My thanks also to my very patient Election Agent, Lisa Beattie, my able campaign team and the many activists who made our campaign possible.
Looking forward my first priority will be to help guide Midlothian North & Musselburgh and Scotland safely through the pandemic. I know that if Nicola Sturgeon is re-elected as First Minister that will also be her priority.
We need to continue to support businesses, community groups, and individuals who have suffered as a result of the economic downturn. I have frequently stated that my priority is jobs and the economy – that priority remains unchanged.
I would also repeat my pledge to work hard to resolve the unsatisfactory situation which patients at Riverside Medical Centre in Musselburgh must endure. This is a problem which needs urgent resolution.
We don’t yet know the final result of Thursday’s election – but we can be hopeful that across the country the people of Scotland will once again reject the Westminster political parties operating in our country.
If the people show in this election that they want a choice over Scotland’s future, then when the time is right I will support them in having that right.
Finally, we have had a tough year, but I know that Midlothian North & Musselburgh and Scotland have a bright future ahead of us if we all work together – and as your MSP I cannot wait to get started.
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