The Scottish Government’s Small Business Bonus Scheme provided £9.9 million of support for businesses across South Lanarkshire in 2017/18 – an 11.7% rise on the previous year. The Small Business Bonus Scheme, introduced by the Scottish Government in 2008/09, supports local firms by reducing their rates liability or taking firms out of business rates altogether.

The Scottish Government has warned that a no-deal Brexit would hammer Scotland’s economy, with national Gross Domestic Product (GDP) predicted to fall by up to 7%.The report warns that South Lanarkshire will face economic shock and possible job losses, noting that 15% - 19% of the total workforce in area will be exposed to economic damage from a no-deal Brexit.

Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey has renewed her calls for radical reform of Universal Credit after DWP boss Amber Rudd finally admitted the system was leaving people without food. Universal Credit was rolled-out to South Lanarkshire by the UK Government in October 2017, and has been the subject of a number of controversies since.

GPs in Rutherglen and Cambuslang are eligible to apply to a new fund of £20 million to help with the costs of running their practices, the Scottish Government has unveiled.

Families in Rutherglen and Cambuslang have benefitted from their share of under £3 million through the Scottish Government’s new Best Start Grant Pregnancy and Baby Payment scheme since it opened for applications.

Following a report from Citizens Advice Scotland, Rutherglen MSP, Clare Haughey, is leading calls for the UK government to streamline the complaints process for their flagship energy-saving scheme, the Green Deal.

Holyrood has backed the Scottish Government’s budget plans, which offer “economic stability in the face of Brexit while giving a cash boost to the NHS, schools and other vital services”, according to Rutherglen MSP Clare Haughey.

The use and regulation of fireworks is the focus of a public consultation which aims to ensure everyone can enjoy displays safely. The Scottish Government has launched a consultation which asks for views on issues such as whether the sale of fireworks to the public should be banned, and what other measures can help ensure fireworks are used safely and responsibly.

Clare Haughey MSP comments on the sad passing of Mike McGahey.

Clare comments on recent domestic abuse figures.