Today I visited the site of the works on the A68 to meet with Bear Scotland officials and see for myself what has been happening following the landslip. I was hugely impressed by the work and was delighted to hear that it seems that the road will reopen on Monday, albeit initially with traffic lights operating at the site. A… Read more »
In my column in the East Lothian Courier this week, I discuss the worrying trend in unemployment, and how that trend looks increase due to the end of the Furlough scheme. “Unemployment is creeping up, increasing by 180 in July from June. More worryingly, it’s up by 70 for youngsters aged 18-24. The rate of 5.6 per cent is still… Read more »
In my column in the Scotsman this week I discuss how “wars fought with weapons exported from developed countries, economic problems and environmental degradation are among the reasons why people leave developing countries in search of a better life.” “I don’t know why poor Mercy Baguma died or what brought her here. But it’s a tragedy that is going to… Read more »
I was pleased to sign this cross-party letter to Liz Truss (International Trade) and George Eustice (Environment, Food and Rural Affairs) asking the government to clarify its commitment to protecting UK food standards in light of future trade deals. East Lothian is rightly famed for it’s fertile land and high quality produce, with farms across the county, and several local… Read more »
In my column in the East Lothian Courier I write about visiting the East Lothian Community Hospital. It was also an opportunity for me to meet trade union reps, which was humbling. Like others, I’ve seen on social media how hard it is for so many in the NHS who continue to give so much. Hearing the stories personally was… Read more »
In my column in this week’s East Lothian Courier I reflect on how the “downsides of ‘staycationing’ has been felt across the county.” Tourism is vital for East Lothian, with businesses and jobs depending upon it. The recent rush of visitors to hotels and chalet parks has been welcome and badly needed given that so much has been lost. But… Read more »
I was impressed to read about the fundraising work being done by Alex Brown, from Tranent, and more than happy to table a motion in Parliament congratulating him on the work he has been doing to raise money for local causes in East Lothian. You can read the full report at the East Lothian Courier website here, and read the… Read more »
The Scottish Government today published it’s most recent set of guidance on the route map through and out of the pandemic. You can find the detail of the information at the Scottish Government website here. It gives information on the recent changes, which include the following: From Monday 24 August: Organised outdoor contact sports for all ages can resume Driving… Read more »
Following the decisions made by East Lothian Council today, I welcome the decisions made regarding the proposed McDonalds Drive-Through and the Care Village outside of North Berwick. Traffic in that area of Musselburgh is bad enough. I have had messages from constituents as well, expressing concern about the potential noise and extra litter. I also echo my Council colleagues’ comments… Read more »
I have received enquiries from very anxious students and parents regarding the decisions made by the SQA in relation to grading this year. I have written to the schools in East Lothian stating my disappointment in the SQA’s decision-making process. I firmly believe the people best placed to know about pupils are those overseeing and working alongside them during their… Read more »