My column in this week’s East Lothian Courier A constituent asked me if I knew the link between East Lothian and Palestine and I had to confess that I didn’t, though I’d met Ministers who had visited the Holy Land. But there is one and it laid the basis for the troubles there today. For Arthur Balfour was born into… Read more »
My column in the Scotsman. “There was a buzz in nationalist circles in Scotland, as there was surprise in British ones, at the Irish election result. “Sinn Fein polled better than many had ever imagined even if the demise of Fine Gael shouldn’t have come as such a shock. “It does mean that a United Ireland is drawing ever closer,… Read more »
My column in the Scotsman. “Visiting a community project in my constituency reminded me why justice is best delivered close to home. Youngsters in danger of going off the rails and the not-so-young seeking to get back on them were all being helped. Good work was being done and the community that had sometimes suffered from them appreciated it. “Atonement… Read more »
My column in the East Lothian Courier – 10 February 2020 The county possesses many holiday and caravan parks. Folk from near and far use them and enjoy them immensely. I’ve visited a few and they’re well looked after, bringing jobs and spending power to the communities near them. It’s no longer just caravans static or mobile on site but… Read more »
In my column in the Scotsman this week I discuss why it’s high time we abolished the House of Lords. I’m a supporter of a second chamber, whether in the UK or an independent Scotland. The ability to have a further review and considered input enhances democracy. But planned appointments to the House of Lords, if true, are craven and… Read more »
Congratulations to those who have campaigned for this new cycle path. I’m quoted in the piece saying “This is great news. Safe, family-friendly active travel options are essential for both commuters and citizens alike. “This new pathway will be good for the health of local residents and our environment. Campaigners, CALA and local landowners are to be commended for making… Read more »
My column in The Scotsman today:- “The UK is weakened and diminished and it’s only going to get worse. In the space of a week, the bold Boris has provoked not just a fight but a backlash from the EU, the world’s largest trading bloc. Meanwhile over Huawei, he’s managed to irritate the world’s two superpowers, China and the USA…. Read more »
I wrote in today’s Scotsman about the tendering process charities must undergo to secure a contract to provide care services. “Social enterprises are universally lauded, yet we put a ball and chain around their ankles. “If football managers can get “rolling contracts” why not them? Surely a lighter touch can prevail for smaller community services, where it’s clear their skills… Read more »
Minimum Unit Pricing Success – from the Daily Record Scotland’s former Justice Secretary has called on big booze companies to apologise for delaying the minimum pricing for alcohol. Kenny Macaskill’s call comes after the Treasury confirmed that there has been no increase in foreign duty on exports as a result of the 50p a unit base price. The SNP MP… Read more »
Commenting today in the Scotsman, on Emily Thornberry’s unfortunate comments about the SNP. “I’ve never met Emily Thornberry but I’m sure she doesn’t really hate the SNP. That was simply unfortunate rhetoric used by her as she played to the gallery in a party hustings. It was crass of her as I’m sure she’s not someone who burns with hate…. Read more »