Paul McLennan
Scottish National Party · Scotland
“To ask the Scottish Government what measures it is taking forward in partnership with East Lothian Council, Taylor Wimpey and Hargreaves, to deliver and expand the housing development at Blindwells, which has been classified as a strategic housing site. (S7O- 00129)”
“Scotland has decarbonised its electricity supply faster than almost any other country in Europe has done. More than 90 per cent of our electricity now comes from renewable sources—a transformation that is powered by the wind, waves and tides that shape our East Lothian shores every day.”
“We are at a moment that will define the future that we leave to our children and grandchildren. The science is clear, the evidence is all around us and the window for action is narrowing. Today, red weather warnings for extreme heat have been issued in the south-east of England.”
“Therefore, does he regret his party’s decision to close down nuclear energy in Scotland, which has been a huge contributor to the Scottish economy? Paul McLennan: I will touch on that. I mentioned the need for investment in the green jobs and infrastructure that grow our economy.”
“Paul McLennan: I go back to my point that the broader debate is about ensuring that those who are successful pay their fair share towards the foundations that make that success possible.”
“As the efficient and fair function of Scotland’s justice system is a priority for all in this chamber, does the cabinet secretary agree with me on the importance of the Scottish Sentencing Council and the courts working independently to ensure that objective?”
The complete record
Every one of 431 lines we hold for Paul McLennan, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 5 of 9.
“I thank the Tories for bringing forward this debate on the day of the UK Government’s budget. Thanks to the OBR, we all knew what was in the budget before it was presented—the whole process has been shambolic. Some measures are welcome. The lifting of the two-child benefit cap is obviously welcome, but this is not a budget for growth. Growth is forecast to slow, productivity to fall and inflation to rise. The Resolution Foundation published its analysis today, forecasting that disposable income will rise by 0.5 per cent per year during this Parliament— the lowest increase since the 1950s. Let us look at the state of the UK economy today. The UK national debt is at £2.7 trillion, which is nearly 100 per cent of GDP. We hear from Craig Hoy and his colleagues about responsible management of the economy.”
“We have to work hard to address inequalities by empowering our communities and ensuring that they are fully recognised and supported as a valued part of our society. The saltire and St Andrew’s day can play a major part in that. Kindness plays a leading role in the purpose of St Andrew’s day, and it offers a timely moment to reflect on that purpose and come together in our communities. 17:44”
“Paul McLennan: Yes—I reiterate that point, and it is really important as we go forward. Last week at Hampden, in what was a magnificent result, we saw the saltire at its best. I have been at Hampden many times when there have been 10,000 people there and the saltire has been flying away, and it was proudly waved as we qualified for the world cup for the first time in 28 years. That lifted the mood of the nation—there is no doubt about that. At a time when we see the rise of the far right, we must redouble our efforts to promote the values of inclusivity, respect, love and compassion, and we must push back against those who promote fear and misinformation. Every single one of us has a responsibility to do that.”
“For me, St Andrew’s day is all about who we are as a nation, what our values are and how inclusive we are, whether we believe in the union or in Scotland as an independent nation. It is all about love, compassion and respect for all—the values of St Andrew. Michelle Thomson: Will the member give way quickly? Paul McLennan: Yes, of course. Michelle Thomson: I will be as quick as I can, because I am respectful of the member’s time. I have absolute respect for the fact that the member’s office set up and managed the inaugural St Andrew’s night in this place. My office then took it over, but that meant that, for two years, our local offices had to give up our resource to do that. We were unable to persuade the Parliament to carry on, leaving one of us to do that, which does not seem right.”
“The group includes two fantastic people, along with many others. One is Dennis Canavan, who, in previous sessions of Parliament, ensured that St Andrew’s day was marked as a public holiday. The other, whom many of us will know, is Joe Goldblatt, who contributes from the culture angle. It is my pleasure to work with them both. One key ask for me is that we mark St Andrew’s day formally in our Parliament. When I arranged an event in 2022, I could not believe that the Parliament did not mark the day formally. Michelle Thomson and I have discussed that, and I would like to take it forward with the Cabinet Secretary for Constitution, External Affairs and Culture. I know that it is an issue for the Parliament, but we should be marking St Andrew’s day formally in the Parliament.”
“An army of Picts and Scots, under King Angus, had been on a raid into Northumbrian territory, but they were pursued and caught by a larger force of Angles and Saxons at Athelstaneford. Fearing the outcome, Angus prayed for deliverance and was rewarded by the appearance overhead of a white saltire against the blue sky. The king vowed that if he gained the victory, Andrew would thereafter be the patron saint of Scotland. The Scots won, and in due course the saltire became the flag of Scotland. This Sunday, the First Minister will be present at the annual St Andrew’s day event in Athelstaneford. I have been attending the event for many years, with an immense sense of pride. Four years ago, when I was elected, I was asked to chair the Parliament’s cross-party group on St Andrew’s day.”
“It is important to remember his Christian background, but I will talk about inclusive messages, too, further on in my speech. St Andrew preached the gospel in the land around the Black Sea and in Greece, and was eventually crucified on an X-shaped cross in Patras. During his visit in 1969, Pope Paul VI gave relics of St Andrew to Scotland with the words, “St Peter gives you his brother”. Those are now displayed in St Mary’s Catholic church in Edinburgh. Athelstaneford—many people would pronounce it as “Athel-stan-ford”, but it is pronounced locally as “Ail-shin-ford”—in East Lothian is the birthplace of Scotland’s national flag: St Andrew’s cross, or the saltire. As Kenny Gibson mentioned, legend has it that the flag originated at the battle that was fought close to the village in 832.”
“I thank Michelle Thomson for bringing the debate to the chamber. St Andrew is, of course, our patron saint, and—as she mentioned—we share that honour with Russia, Ukraine, Barbados and others. St Andrew has been celebrated in Scotland for more than 1,000 years, with feasts being held in his honour as far back as 1000 AD. It was not until 1320, when Scotland’s independence was declared with the signing of the declaration of Arbroath, that he officially became Scotland’s patron saint. Since then, St Andrew has become an important part of Scottish society, as Michelle Thomson mentioned, and of course the flag of Scotland is the saltire. St Andrew has so many different connections to our country that it is worth considering how he came to be so important to Scotland. Who was St Andrew?”
“On the general principles, there was no doubt that concerns were presented to the committee, and we have heard different opinions from members. It was encouraging to see in the cabinet secretary’s response to the committee’s stage 1 report that she will consider some of the points that were raised by stakeholders as we move towards stage 2. In the closing paragraph of the cabinet secretary’s response to the stage 1 report, she “notes the significant concerns highlighted by the Committee and others”, and says that she will “reflect carefully on all of the points made” as the bill progresses. I look forward to future discussions on the bill with her and stakeholders. 15:23”
“That was an issue for stakeholders, particularly in the panel of those with legal expertise. I am aware of the cabinet secretary’s position regarding the Education (Scotland) Act 1980 in that respect. The committee recognised concerns about part 2 of the bill. Those concerns relate to the rationale, the precedent and whether the bill is an appropriate vehicle for the measure. I note the cabinet secretary’s comments in her response that the measure is “a necessary and proportionate safeguard to ensure that the UNCRC Act operates reliably as case law develops.” Together, which has been mentioned, as well as the SHRC and the children’s commissioner have all offered support for the bill, although that is caveated. The committee has asked the Scottish Government to ensure that the Parliament is kept updated with regard to part 2.”
“The issue of children’s capacity to form a view was discussed in the committee and by stakeholders. The point was made that there can be a very mature 12-year-old and a very immature 14-year-old. The majority of the committee agreed that the bill should not specify an age threshold at which a pupil’s views are considered in discussions about withdrawal from RO and RME, which I think is the correct approach. The committee mentioned the need for support and training on the decision-making capacity of pupils. A few schools touched on that, including denominational and non-faith schools. The training issue is an important point, and I hope that the cabinet secretary can pick up on it in summing up the debate. As we have heard, one of the key issues all the way through the process was compatibility with the UNCRC.”
“The cabinet secretary has advised that the bill includes a requirement to seek discussion between parents, children and the school. In her response to the committee, she referred to the legal rights under article 12 of the UNCRC, which is the right to be heard; article 14, which is the right to freedom of thought, conscience and, of course, religion; and article 29, which is on the purposes of education. The issue of the right of the child to independently opt out of RO and RME was also a topic of conversation. I was encouraged to hear that the cabinet secretary wishes to “chart a middle ground” on that issue. Again, I am cognisant of what has been said on it. The majority of the committee considered that it would be appropriate for children to have a right to object to RO and RME.”
“I remember how much my two kids valued RME at school, and how much it informed them in respecting others at school and even now going forward in their lives. That is important. I note that the cabinet secretary has stated that she will give careful consideration to that topic in advance of stage 2. The committee recognised that the bill creates a potential for conflict between parents and children. That is where the key balance has to be. I acknowledge the point that Stephen Kerr made on that, and I will touch on the issue later. The intention of the bill is, of course, to increase rights for children. It is important that there is resource for schools to deal with such conflict—that issue was raised by some of the schools that we heard from in evidence.”
“On the more general point, the committee has asked the Scottish Government to consider how best it can be made aware of how RO is being delivered and the number of pupils who are requesting withdrawal. It is important to keep in mind the context of what we are talking about. As has been mentioned, conflation of RO and RME was an important topic. As I have stated, RME is increasingly relevant, and I agree with the majority of the committee that RME should not be a topic that children can withdraw from. RME is one of the eight curriculum areas in the curriculum for excellence. I understand the point that others have made that, if children can withdraw from RME, what other issues can they withdraw from?”
“Understanding and respecting the views of others, of all faiths and none, is so important as we push back against prejudice and ignorance. Religious observance and our own religious and moral education are, of course, important in their own right, and I will touch on that later. It is important to understand the context of the bill, and one of the key issues in that context is the current level of withdrawals. One of the first questions that the committee asked was about the number of pupils who have withdrawn. There is limited information on that, and I would like to see how that can be improved. We heard that the numbers are small but, regardless of how small they are—even if it is only one, two or three people—it is important to have that information.”
“I thank Karen Adam for her opening speech as convener of the Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee. As a member of the committee, I can say that the evidence sessions were extensive. As we have heard today, the evidence that was gathered led to lots of differing opinions on the bill. Some motives for concern were shared by many. Striking a balance with the legislation was key. The committee was split on the benefits of the bill for young people. I, like the majority of the committee, supported the general principles but, obviously, with the need for amendments. Stakeholder engagement was wide as we discussed the bill, and I thank all stakeholders for their participation. As a person of faith, I am very much in favour of ecumenical teaching in schools of all faiths.”
“Furthermore, the salary for classroom teachers at the top of the main grade scale will have increased from £37,575 in April 2018 to more than £52,600 by August 2025—an increase of 40 per cent.”
“I welcome the cabinet secretary’s proposals. Ensuring the wellbeing of the teaching workforce is key to improving educational outcomes for children. Tackling workload is, quite rightly, a key aspect of that, and remuneration is another. Will the cabinet secretary update us on the outcome of this year’s pay negotiations for teachers? Jenny Gilruth: I am delighted that teachers have accepted a new pay deal that ensures that Scotland’s classroom teachers on the main grade scale continue to be the best paid in the United Kingdom. The agreement shows what can be achieved through constructive dialogue. The deal means that the starting salary for a qualified teacher in Scotland will increase to more than £41,900, with further increases in April and August.”
“They will pivot back and forth for years to come, so, as part of the ScotWind licensing obligations, there has to be local procurement. That was the smart thing to do. I would like to see it happen for transmission infrastructure as well.”
“However, I was there previously to meet its many apprentices, and I was blown away by their enthusiasm for the fact that manufacturing was happening in their locality and that they would, effectively, have jobs for the rest of their lives. On what Paul McLennan said about ensuring that we have more manufacturing in Scotland, we have £500 million invested in the offshore wind supply chain across five years. That money is for not only the development of supply chains but the pivoting of existing ones, because Scotland’s unique selling point is that we have a vibrant energy supply chain already. At the moment, the order books for many of those companies are largely oil and gas related, but they are pivoting towards renewables opportunities.”
“Neart na Gaoithe, Inch Cape and Berwick Bank come on shore or will do so in my constituency, East Lothian. The cabinet secretary recently visited Had Fab in my constituency to highlight successful contract awards. Had Fab is a successful fabrication company in East Lothian, employing many local people and local apprentices. What more can be done to grow local supply chains and all tiers of procurement through offshore wind farm development? Gillian Martin: When I was at Had Fab with Paul McLennan, Martin Whitfield and the former Secretary of State for Scotland, it was to celebrate a contract that the company had won for manufacturing.”
“Màiri McAllan: I welcome the ECCI report, which demonstrates the economic importance of heat networks. The Government is very seized of their importance and part 3 of the draft bill is entirely dedicated to that area. Across Scotland, we estimate that heat networks could account for around 20 per cent of heat demand in the future. Those networks will be a key technology as part of the mix of decarbonisation options that we foresee for Scotland. The member will know that, through our heat networks fund, we are supporting the deployment of heat networks across Scotland. That is not something that has to await primary legislation. Again, I draw Parliament’s attention to the extension of our loan and grant scheme for connections to heat networks, particularly in rural areas, which I announced in my statement.”
“A new report by the Edinburgh Climate Change Institute reveals that the deployment of zero-carbon networks and energy efficiency upgrades across Edinburgh, Midlothian and East Lothian could generate up to £2.1 billion in combined environmental and social benefits over the next 25 years. Lothian Heat CIC has now been established as a community interest company to lead that network on a regional basis. It brings together community groups from Edinburgh, Midlothian and East Lothian. It is a visionary infrastructure project to deliver clean, affordable heat across the Lothians by capturing local waste heat and renewable energy and delivering a heat network under a community-led, not-for-profit model. What support can be given to Lothian Heat CIC and other community-led networks to maximise benefits for our communities?”
“It would be helpful to have appropriate investment in universities—which are not just educational institutions; they are also massive economic drivers in our economy—by the UK Government in its budget, through revenue and capital, to help to create the economic growth that we all want to see.”
“The minister might have just answered my question. I have been contacted by constituents who have mentioned the issue of tuition fees. Both Labour and the Conservatives have implemented them— and they might be talked about in the future, to address the pressures. What is the minister’s view on tuition fees being used going forward? Ben Macpherson: There has been some discussion regarding tuition fees in the context of the wider challenge that we all face of the financial sustainability of our excellent universities. If tuition fees were a solution in this scenario, why are institutions in England and Wales facing financial challenges as well? Clearly, tuition fees from undergraduate students would not be a solution to the sustainability challenges.”
“The Scottish Government continues to call on the UK Government to approach North Sea oil and gas licensing on an evidence-led, case-by-case basis, with climate compatibility and energy security as key considerations. That position has not changed. Decisions on offshore oil and gas licensing and consenting are currently reserved to the UK Government, but any development of oil and gas licensing must be undertaken in a way that is compatible with Scotland’s journey to net zero. The Scottish Government remains committed to a fair and just transition to net zero, which will provide opportunities for our industries, our economy and our climate.”
“I thank the Scottish Greens for bringing the debate to the chamber. Like other members, I have received correspondence on the issue of Rosebank over a lengthy period of time. We all know that its development and implications are wide ranging, as it will impact on the climate emergency, jobs and the broader regional economy in the north-east. Other factors in the discussion include the just transition and the impact of the UK Government’s tax and levy regimes. The decisions made and the approach taken in relation to the proposal need to achieve the goals of tackling the climate emergency and the just transition and, of course, providing economic stability.”
“On a point of order, Presiding Officer. My app would not connect. I would have voted yes. The Deputy Presiding Officer: Thank you, Mr McLennan.”
“That is why my officials and I have been very supportive in ensuring that Historic Environment Scotland has the capacity to deal with the challenges that it is trying to deal with. That has involved the appointment of a new chairman of the board, which I have undertaken, the appointment of two new interim board members, which I have undertaken, and the provision of support relating to the appointment of a chief operating officer for Historic Environment Scotland. Those are the appropriate Government interventions to ensure that Historic Environment Scotland is able to deal with the problems that exist in the organisation and to move on and focus on the key role that it performs in our country.”
“The quality of the protection and care of Scotland’s heritage and history is at the heart of this matter, and it is essential that Historic Environment Scotland has the trust and confidence of the public in that regard. Will the cabinet secretary say more about how the Scottish Government is working alongside the new chair to ensure that trust is restored as swiftly as possible? Angus Robertson: Paul McLennan has asked a very important question, which relates to issues that I have already narrated to Neil Bibby. We need to ensure that Historic Environment Scotland, under new leadership, has the resources at its disposal to deal with the issues relating to its leadership that have come to public attention.”
“Scotland will play Greece on Saturday—and Denmark next Tuesday, when I will head to Hampden to cheer on Scotland to world cup qualification. I hope that we will be cheering on Scotland before Euro 2028, when the team heads to the USA, Canada and Mexico for the world cup in 2026. 15:41”
“The bill takes action on ticket touting and prohibits the unauthorised sale of championship tickets for profit, above the face cost, and that will apply to all matches. There is an exception for the auction of tickets to raise funds for charity. The bill will prohibit unauthorised street trading and advertising in designated event zones. George Adam is right to mention the sale of hats and scarves, which is a feature of every Scotland game that we might go to. As some members have said, there is a balance to be struck, as local business needs to see the benefit of the tournament coming to Scotland. The bill will set criminal offences for ticket touting and unauthorised trading and advertising. It will, of course, be an offence to obstruct an enforcement officer.”
“The memory of singing “Flower of Scotland” at the Allianz arena in Munich at the first game of that championship was incredible. The build-up to the game with Germany supporters was great—we sang and enjoyed German hospitality. Our support was, of course, incredible, and it drove tourism to Scotland. The game itself was fine for only 10 minutes, unfortunately. Hosting Euro 2028 presents an opportunity for us to build on Scotland’s strong track record of delivering major events. The bill will enable Scotland to play its part in hosting the championships, ensuring that Scotland meets UEFA’s host nation requirements. It is there to protect us from exploitation, ticket touting, unauthorised trading and so on, and the Scottish Government has worked with partners and key stakeholders in the Parliament.”
“UEFA’s report, entitled “The European Club Talent and Competition Landscape”, was launched in 2023. The latest report revealed that the Scottish premiership had 18.5 attendees per 1,000 people at matches last season, which is a 5 per cent increase on the previous campaign. That is 70 per cent higher than any other league in Europe. Portugal’s Primeira Liga sits in second place, with 10.7 attendees per 1,000 people, and the Netherlands’ Eredivisie is third, with 9.77 attendees. England’s Premier League has 6.97 attendees per 1,000 people. Around 4 million fans attended top-flight matches in Scotland last term. That is the eighth-highest attendance in Europe. I was lucky enough to attend the last two European championships—in 2021 in Scotland and in 2024 in Germany—with my wife, my son and daughter, and their two partners.”
“I know that there are young players in the academies now who are targeting Euro 2028 as an opportunity. I remember watching a young Billy Gilmour many years ago, when he played for Rangers, and thinking that he was a fantastic player. We can all see where he is now. My son has followed in my footsteps. He now coaches at Nottingham Forest, having previously been at Hearts and Celtic. We have been talking about legacy, which is key. This year, Scottish football supporters topped a European attendance chart for the third year running. Citing a recently published UEFA report, the Scottish Professional Football League said that “football fans across Scotland have recorded significantly higher top-flight attendances per capita than any other league in Europe”. We should be proud of that.”
“It is a pleasure to speak in the debate. Football is our national sport. It is a passion for many of us in Scotland. I had lots of passion on Saturday, while I was watching Hibs beat the mighty St Mirren 3-0 after failing to do so last season. I am taking my life in my hands by mentioning that in front of George Adam. I also remember—this will show my age—when Scotland beat Spain 3-1 back in 1984, when Kenny Dalglish turned away and scored a memorable goal. I was at Hampden on that day. I coached professionally for 11 years with Hibs and during my career was lucky enough to visit Holland, Germany, Denmark and Portugal, sharing ideas and discussing coaching methods. Football is a global language. It is the dream of every football academy player to play for Scotland. I had the pleasure of coaching players who went on to do that.”
“We have also ramped up the ambition for community energy, with additional funding going to the community and renewable energy scheme for funding and advice for community energy. Climate action hubs are pivotal in getting communities ready to invest and to apply for community energy projects. I thank them for what they do.”
“Gillian Martin: My message is to thank the hubs for everything that they do. I want to thank all the climate hubs across Scotland, which continue to innovate, inspire and achieve real action on the ground. Encouraging transformational change across our communities and supporting them to be climate ready is vital to delivering on the policies that are set out in the draft climate change plan. I keep saying that the Government cannot tackle the issue alone, nor should it have a top-down approach to communities. Communities have the answers to what they need to do that suit them. We have provided £6 million of funding for the next year to the climate action hub network to enable communities to come together to engage in collective climate action and support the transition.”
“A total of 24 climate action hubs were set up across Scotland, following a 2024 programme for government commitment. The hubs are there to empower people to act in their neighbourhoods and have supported a range of projects, including those linked to local energy generation, flood mitigation and food growing. A total of £5.5 million was allocated in 2024-25 for the allocation of hubs. The cabinet secretary said: “Communities are uniquely placed to play a key role in sharing and driving forward Scotland’s transition to low carbon and climate resilient living.” East Lothian Climate Hub received more than £126,000 from the fund. I am meeting representatives of the hub tomorrow. What role will climate action hubs play in the climate plan? What message can I relay to East Lothian Climate Hub when I meet it tomorrow?”
“Amendment 113 disagreed to. Amendment 114 not moved. After section 29 Amendment 365 moved—[Mairi Gougeon]—and agreed to. Section 30—Commencement Amendment 366 not moved. Before schedule Amendment 231 moved—[Mairi Gougeon]. The Presiding Officer: The question is, that amendment 231 be agreed to. Are we agreed? Members: No. The Presiding Officer: There will be a division. Members should cast their votes now. The vote is closed.”
“On a point of order, Presiding Officer. My app would not connect. I would have voted no. The Presiding Officer: Thank you, Mr McLennan. We will ensure that that is recorded. For Bibby, Neil (West Scotland) (Lab) Boyack, Sarah (Lothian) (Lab) Briggs, Miles (Lothian) (Con) Burnett, Alexander (Aberdeenshire West) (Con) Carlaw, Jackson (Eastwood) (Con) Carson, Finlay (Galloway and West Dumfries) (Con) Choudhury, Foysol (Lothian) (Ind) Clark, Katy (West Scotland) (Lab) Dowey, Sharon (South Scotland) (Con) Duncan-Glancy, Pam (Glasgow) (Lab) Eagle, Tim (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Findlay, Russell (West Scotland) (Con) Fraser, Murdo (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Gallacher, Meghan (Central Scotland) (Con) Golden, Maurice (North East Scotland) (Con) Gosal, Pam (West Scotland) (Con) Grant, Rhoda (Highlands and Islands) (Lab) Griffin, Mark (Central Scotland) (Lab) Gulhane, Sandesh (Glasgow) (Con) Hamilton, Rachael (Ettrick, Roxburgh and Berwickshire) (Con) Hoy, Craig (South Scotland) (Con) Johnson, Daniel (Edinburgh Southern) (Lab) Halcro Johnston, Jamie (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Kerr, Liam (North East Scotland) (Con) Kerr, Stephen (Central Scotland) (Con) Lennon, Monica (Central Scotland) (Lab) Leonard, Richard (Central Scotland) (Lab) Lumsden, Douglas (North East Scotland) (Con) Marra, Michael (North East Scotland) (Lab) McCall, Roz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Mochan, Carol (South Scotland) (Lab) Mountain, Edward (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Mundell, Oliver (Dumfriesshire) (Con) O’Kane, Paul (West Scotland) (Lab) [Proxy vote cast by Michael Marra] Ross, Douglas (Highlands and Islands) (Con) Rowley, Alex (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Lab) Russell, Davy (Hamilton, Larkhall and Stonehouse) (Lab) Simpson, Graham (Central Scotland) (Reform) Smith, Liz (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Stewart, Alexander (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Con) Sweeney, Paul (Glasgow) (Lab) Villalba, Mercedes (North East Scotland) (Lab) Webber, Sue (Lothian) (Con) Wells, Annie (Glasgow) (Con) White, Tess (North East Scotland) (Con) Whitfield, Martin (South Scotland) (Lab) Against Adam, George (Paisley) (SNP) Adam, Karen (Banffshire and Buchan Coast) (SNP) Adamson, Clare (Motherwell and Wishaw) (SNP) Allan, Dr Alasdair (Na h-Eileanan an Iar) (SNP) Arthur, Tom (Renfrewshire South) (SNP) Beattie, Colin (Midlothian North and Musselburgh) (SNP) Brown, Keith (Clackmannanshire and Dunblane) (SNP) Brown, Siobhian (Ayr) (SNP) Burgess, Ariane (Highlands and Islands) (Green) Callaghan, Stephanie (Uddingston and Bellshill) (SNP) Chapman, Maggie (North East Scotland) (Green) Coffey, Willie (Kilmarnock and Irvine Valley) (SNP) Cole-Hamilton, Alex (Edinburgh Western) (LD) Constance, Angela (Almond Valley) (SNP) Dey, Graeme (Angus South) (SNP) Don-Innes, Natalie (Renfrewshire North and West) (SNP) Doris, Bob (Glasgow Maryhill and Springburn) (SNP) Dornan, James (Glasgow Cathcart) (SNP) Dunbar, Jackie (Aberdeen Donside) (SNP) Ewing, Annabelle (Cowdenbeath) (SNP) Ewing, Fergus (Inverness and Nairn) (Ind) Fairlie, Jim (Perthshire South and Kinross-shire) (SNP) FitzPatrick, Joe (Dundee City West) (SNP) Forbes, Kate (Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch) (SNP) Gibson, Kenneth (Cunninghame North) (SNP) Gilruth, Jenny (Mid Fife and Glenrothes) (SNP) Gougeon, Mairi (Angus North and Mearns) (SNP) Gray, Neil (Airdrie and Shotts) (SNP) Greene, Jamie (West Scotland) (LD) Greer, Ross (West Scotland) (Green) [Proxy vote cast by Patrick Harvie] Harper, Emma (South Scotland) (SNP) Harvie, Patrick (Glasgow) (Green) Haughey, Clare (Rutherglen) (SNP) Hepburn, Jamie (Cumbernauld and Kilsyth) (SNP) Hyslop, Fiona (Linlithgow) (SNP) Kidd, Bill (Glasgow Anniesland) (SNP) Lochhead, Richard (Moray) (SNP) MacDonald, Gordon (Edinburgh Pentlands) (SNP) MacGregor, Fulton (Coatbridge and Chryston) (SNP) Mackay, Gillian (Central Scotland) (Green) [Proxy vote cast by Patrick Harvie] Mackay, Rona (Strathkelvin and Bearsden) (SNP) Macpherson, Ben (Edinburgh Northern and Leith) (SNP) Maguire, Ruth (Cunninghame South) (SNP) Martin, Gillian (Aberdeenshire East) (SNP) Mason, John (Glasgow Shettleston) (Ind) Matheson, Michael (Falkirk West) (SNP) McAllan, Màiri (Clydesdale) (SNP) McKee, Ivan (Glasgow Provan) (SNP) McLennan, Paul (East Lothian) (SNP) McMillan, Stuart (Greenock and Inverclyde) (SNP) McNair, Marie (Clydebank and Milngavie) (SNP) Minto, Jenni (Argyll and Bute) (SNP) Nicoll, Audrey (Aberdeen South and North Kincardine) (SNP) Rennie, Willie (North East Fife) (LD) Robertson, Angus (Edinburgh Central) (SNP) Robison, Shona (Dundee City East) (SNP) Roddick, Emma (Highlands and Islands) (SNP) Ruskell, Mark (Mid Scotland and Fife) (Green) Slater, Lorna (Lothian) (Green) [Proxy vote cast by Maggie Chapman] Somerville, Shirley-Anne (Dunfermline) (SNP) Stevenson, Collette (East Kilbride) (SNP) [Proxy vote cast by Fulton MacGregor] Stewart, Kaukab (Glasgow Kelvin) (SNP) Stewart, Kevin (Aberdeen Central) (SNP) Sturgeon, Nicola (Glasgow Southside) (SNP) Swinney, John (Perthshire North) (SNP) Thomson, Michelle (Falkirk East) (SNP) Todd, Maree (Caithness, Sutherland and Ross) (SNP) Torrance, David (Kirkcaldy) (SNP) Tweed, Evelyn (Stirling) (SNP) Whitham, Elena (Carrick, Cumnock and Doon Valley) (SNP) Wishart, Beatrice (Shetland Islands) (LD) The Presiding Officer: The result of the division is: For 46, Against 71, Abstentions 0.”
“The debate is about not just policy but dignity. Let us commit to building a Scotland in which no woman is forced to choose between safety and homelessness, children are not punished for the debts of abusers and financial independence is not a privilege but a right. 15:27”
“‘Leaving’ is difficult and dangerous, and the Fund to Leave is such an important step to making leaving and staying free from an abuser a reality across Scotland.” However, we must go further. We need systemic reform of public debt recovery. Debt collection practices must be trauma informed and compassionate, and survivors should not be aggressively pursued for debts that are accrued through abuse. We must embed equally safe principles across all public bodies, not just domestic abuse services. Legal aid must be accessible, which is an on-going issue that we all need to take forward. Social security systems must be flexible. The UK Government must end policies that deepen poverty, such as the five-week wait for universal credit and the two-child limit, which disproportionately harm women and children who are fleeing abuse.”
“When I was a minister, I participated in the equally safe ministerial group meetings and saw how seriously the Minister for Equalities took her responsibilities in that regard. The new £1 million fund to leave, which I helped to develop in my time as Minister for Housing, provides vital support for women and children who flee abuse. Scottish Women’s Aid chief executive officer, Dr Marsha Scott, said: “Scottish Women’s Aid warmly welcomes announcement of a roll-out of the original Fund to Leave pilots to the rest of Scotland. Every day we and our local Women’s Aid services see women and children struggling to get free of an abuser. The Fund to Leave offers a critical helping hand when women and children need it most.”
“They enter temporary accommodation, uprooted from communities, schools and support networks. When they try to move on, they face systemic obstacles such as rent arrears, council tax debt and up-front costs that make securing a new tenancy nearly impossible. Additional support for citizens advice bureaux, as mentioned by the minister, is welcome. One survivor told Aberlour that “debt feels like a shadow you can’t escape”. That is not just unjust; it is unacceptable. The Scottish Government has taken some necessary steps. The Domestic Abuse (Scotland) Act 2018 made coercive control a crime. The equally safe strategy addresses financial abuse, recognising that systems can worsen economic inequality and hinder women’s ability to leave.”
“We have all seen that from constituents. Abusers build debt in victims’ names, restrict access to money and weaponise economic dependence. That traps women in dangerous situations and leaves them financially devastated when they escape. In my East Lothian constituency and in communities across Scotland, we see the consequences of that every day. Women who are supported by services in my constituency report being pursued for council tax and rent arrears that were accrued during abusive relationships—debts that they did not consent to and often did not even know existed. Those debts are not just numbers—they are barriers to housing, employment and recovery. Homelessness is a common consequence. Often, when women flee, they do so with nothing. They leave behind homes, belongings and financial stability.”
“I am grateful for the opportunity to participate in this important debate, and I welcome the committee’s report. I am a previous member of the Social Justice and Social Security Committee and a current member of the Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee. This debate is about confronting a stark reality. For many women in Scotland, leaving an abusive relationship is not just a matter of courage but a matter of survival and, too often, a matter of money. Financial insecurity is one of the most significant barriers that prevent survivors from escaping abuse. It is a cruel paradox that the very act of seeking safety can plunge women and their children into homelessness, poverty and long-term debt. Let us be clear that coerced debt is a form of domestic abuse. It is deliberate and it is calculated to control.”
“One obvious solution is to bring banking regulation to Scotland under independence, so that we can make decisions that affect our own communities. 13:17”
“Will he join me in encouraging banks to use and take up the capacity of banking hubs? Paul McLennan: Yes. Like Mr Hoy, I have visited the hubs and that issue has been raised. It is good that the hub in Dunbar is now moving to a permanent home, which I think means that there will be more bank representation in it. The permanent home will be open in the next few weeks and is in a renovated building that has not been used for a number of years. Banking hubs help our business communities, and lots of businesses at the North Berwick meeting welcomed the hub there. Hubs support people who suffer from digital exclusion, and they provide key support for our communities. Let us all campaign against bank closures when we can, but let us also campaign for banking hubs and the support that they bring to our communities.”
“Having submitted applications for North Berwick, Dunbar and Haddington, I was extremely pleased that new banking hubs were recommended for North Berwick and Dunbar. We continue to push for a hub in Tranent through Cash Access UK, which was asked to take forward the proposals. Public meetings were held in North Berwick, which Mr Hoy and I both attended, and members of the public were able to ask questions. I am delighted to say that the banking hubs are now open in North Berwick and Dunbar. The North Berwick one is in the old Bank of Scotland building. Craig Hoy: I join Paul McLennan in welcoming the Dunbar and North Berwick banking hubs. However, does he share my concern that the hubs are not being fully utilised? On the two days when I last visited the Dunbar hub, there was no community banking facility in it.”