Monday May 3rd 2021
If ever there was a time for our politicians to focus on the entire country, then now is that time. This is no time to be returning to the old arguments or for some politicians to focus on only half of the country. Now is the time to focus on the entire nation, to focus on a recovery from this public health emergency. No matter your political preference, I am sure we can agree that remaining focused as we exit the pandemic is the best way to defeat this virus and the quickest way for society to return to some sort of normality. I will do everything I can to ensure we recover from the pandemic as safely and as quickly as possible, without the disruptions of lockdowns or old arguments.
Scottish Labour’s national recovery plan includes a health recovery, an education recovery, a community recovery, a climate justice plan and at the heart of our plan is a jobs recovery. Without bold action, Scotland faces an unemployment crisis that will become a national emergency. The scale of the problem that confronts us requires an ambitious response. That is why we are proposing the most ambitious jobs creation plan in the history of devolution – a plan that guarantees opportunities for young people.
I’ll also be focusing on local issues that require urgent intervention, such as the continued delays to the Sheriffhall upgrade, or the poor patient experiences at GP practices. I am committed to the upgrade of Sheriffhall roundabout, which is now more than 10 years overdue. I will continue to pressure our senior parliamentarians for action at Sheriffhall. The Scottish Government must invest in the areas they target for growth.
I’ll also continue to campaign for local investment and a fairer funding deal for our growing councils. When compared to other councils, Midlothian is disadvantaged as Scottish Government allocated funds are failing to recognise and keep pace with the local population growth. Councils in our region face huge challenges in meeting the growing demand for services. This is an unsustainable position. My support for Scottish Government housebuilding targets is not unconditional.
My journey into politics is community based and I feel an immense sense of pride knowing that I have the opportunity to represent our towns and villages at Holyrood. It would be such a privilege.
It’s either Scottish Labour or the SNP here in Midlothian North and Musselburgh constituency. I am asking for you to lend me your trust, for your vote on 6th May. Thank you and stay safe.
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