New guidance from the Scottish Government about the Coronavirus (COVID-19) has been published. The main points are: To slow the spread of COVID-19 (coronavirus) the general public are being asked to stay at home as much as possible and avoid unnecessary social contact. People over 70 and those who have high risk and underlying health conditions are being strongly advised… Read more »
I sat down today for lunch with some volunteers at East Lothian Food Bank in Tranent. It was quite humbling to see the work that goes in to ensuring those in real need are able to feed their families and themselves. There are over 60 volunteers spread across East Lothian who do this vital work for the food bank. They… Read more »
In light of the news that the Scottish and UK Governments are moving from the ‘containment’ to the ‘delay’ phase in their response to the Coronavirus outbreak, I am advising constituents to continue to follow the official advice from the Governments. This includes continuing to wash your hands frequently. It also suggests that people who exhibit symptoms of the illness… Read more »
I spoke in Parliament today, asking a question of Johnny Mercer MP as part of his statement on Veterans Mental Health.
My column in today’s Scotsman: “It’s many years now since I had the pleasure of meeting Sir Alex Ferguson. Interviewing him as friend of Jimmy Reid, I ventured south with some trepidation, dressing-room tales of the “hairdryer” treatment going before him. But I came a way a fan and still rave about him to this day. “Now I’ve no doubt… Read more »
My column in today’s Scotsman: “The looming coronavirus threat can be viewed as a natural phenomenon, but another threat is entirely man-made and that’s the UK Government’s changes to immigration policy. For the Secretary of State for Scotland, Alister Jack, totalk about “genuine difficulties” is as blasé as referring to coronavirus as a seasonal flu. It’s causing genuine fear and… Read more »
I’m supporting CHANGES East Lothian’s fundraiser to help pay for more people to receive an counselling with a trainee therapist. CHANGES promote positive wellbeing in East Lothian by offering a wide range of free courses, groups, therapies and activities as well as one-to-one CBT and counselling. Their base is in Musselburgh, though the support covers East Lothian with courses coming… Read more »
My column in this week’s East Lothian Courier: East Lothian isn’t just proud of its beaches but famed for them. It’s one of the reasons that day-trippers and holidaymakers come to the county. The sands are remarkable and a source of enjoyment for locals, as for visitors. But pollution and litter is a growing concern. For it’s not just in… Read more »
Visited the Aviation Preservation Society Scotland today, based in Congalton. The society are involved in a number of projects locally, not least building a fully functional replica of a World War 1 Sopwith Biplane, of the type that would have flown from East Fortune. It was great to see the plane as it nears completion and talk with the society… Read more »
My column today in the Scotsman discussing the deepening divides in English society. “Brexit and long-term social and economic changes have seen a divide appear in England and it’s deep. “It’ll take time and a lot more effort than the UK Government is currently making to address it. Indeed, they’re exacerbating it further by widening the gulf between rich and… Read more »