As announced by the Scottish Government's Brexit Minister, no deal has yet been reached between Holyrood and Westminster regarding devolved powers after our withdrawal from the EU. As it stands, the Scottish Government - quite rightly - won't agree to what is on the table.
Category: Scottish Parliament
GENERAL QUESTION ON JUNK FOOD ADVERTISING ON TV BEFORE 9PM
Clare had the opportunity to question the Scottish Government on the action it is taking to improve the food environment for children. Earlier this week, Jamie Oliver, the celebrity chef, sent a letter to the UK Government - which was signed by the First Minister - calling for a ban on junk food advertising before 9pm.
DEBATE ON SAFE INJECTION FACILITIES
Last week at Parliament, I had the opportunity to take part in a debate on safe injection facilities – otherwise referred to as drug consumption rooms. Such facilities have operated in Europe for the past three decades - where illicit drugs can be used under the supervision of trained staff.
CONVENERS GROUP MEETING WITH THE FIRST MINISTER
Last week at Parliament, I had the opportunity to question the First Minister as Convener of the Scottish Parliament's Standards, Procedures, and Public Appointments Committee. I used my slot to ask the First Minister on proposed parliamentary reforms.
TOPICAL QUESTION ON 2 SISTERS, CAMBUSLANG
On Tuesday at Parliament, I asked a Topical Question of the Scottish Government regarding their response to the closure of the 2 Sisters factory in Cambuslang. Replying to my question, the Minister for Business, Innovation and Energy, Paul Wheelhouse MSP, committed to holding discussions with South Lanarkshire Council about setting up an Action Group – similar to what is being established in Annan regarding the proposed closure of a factory there.
DEBATE ON SCOTTISH APPRENTICESHIP WEEK
Last week, I took part in a debate celebrating Scottish Apprenticeship Week. Within my speech, I spoke of my visits to MD Electrical Contractors and Arnold Clark's Rutherglen branch during this year's and last year's Scottish Apprenticeship Week. I also highlighted the work of Clyde Gateway in supporting local apprentices.
MINISTERIAL STATEMENT ON SCOTLAND’S NEW EMPLOYMENT SUPPORT SERVICE
The Scottish Government have launched a new employment support service, and during the question session today to announce the initiative, I asked the government how it differs from previous DWP employment support programmes.
TOPICAL QUESTION ON EUROPEAN ARREST WARRANTS
Today at Parliament, I secured a topical question on European Arrest Warrants. The Cabinet Secretary in his response was clear that the Scottish Government profoundly regrets that the Spanish Government has failed to engage in dialogue with Catalonia’s politicians and that, instead, the issue is now subject to the judicial process.
DEBATE ON FAIR WORK
Last week at Parliament, Clare took part in a debate on fair work. Scotland’s economy remains strong and our labour market is positive - with high employment and low unemployment. However, we know that, for too many, the experience of work is not always positive.
DEBATE ON INCINERATORS, PUBLIC HEALTH & PLANNING
Today during a debate on incinerators, public health, and planning, I gave a speech highlighting the tremendous community-led campaign against the Whitehill Incinerator in Hamilton. My contribution specifically outlined the tireless efforts of Blantyre and Halfway Community Councils in fighting the proposal.