← LEADERSHIP TERMINAL

UK PARLIAMENT · FORMER

Alexander Stewart

Scottish Conservative and Unionist Party · Scotland

IN THEIR OWN WORDS

Housing for older people is a key priority that is driven by an ageing population. Does the Scottish Government recognise that prioritising the right type of housing can improve quality of life and reduce the need for public services, particularly in health and social care? Màiri McAllan: I agree with that.

MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2026-03-25 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

Suicide in young people has reached a crisis point. The breaking the silence suicide prevention project that has been piloted in schools in my region is a step in the right direction.

MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2026-03-19 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

To ask the Scottish Government for what reason, despite an increase in the number of businesses pledging to pay the real living wage, the percentage of people actually being paid the real living wage or more has been decreasing for three consecutive years. (S6O-05654)

MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2026-03-18 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

I thank the cabinet secretary for early sight of the statement. The Scottish National Party talks a good game on child poverty, but it has failed to back up those words with actions; it has failed to close the attainment gap, one in five children lives in poverty, and it has failed to make work a viable route out of poverty.

MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2026-03-12 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

I spoke about not just the £90 million—now with a multiyear commitment—for our employability service, but also the £19 million that is going into the transport to employment offer, and the £15 million for childcare for priority families that need that support to enter employment.

MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2026-03-12 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

The cabinet secretary is committed to increasing all benefits with inflation, but how much will that add to the already blooming benefit bill?

MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2026-03-12 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

The complete record

Every one of 374 lines we hold for Alexander Stewart, in date order, each linked to its source. Free to read, in full, without an account. Page 6 of 8.

  1. Europe day celebrates the common values that we share across Europe: those of human dignity, freedom and democracy, based on unity and the idea that a co-operative, interdependent Europe would never again suffer the horrors of war. Seventy-five years ago—it is 80 years since the end of the second world war in Europe— Schuman’s idea was the seed of a peace project that grew into what would become the European Union, but war and division have again returned to our continent. Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine and the on-going conflict in Gaza remind us that we cannot take peace or international co-operation for granted. The European project and the ideas on which it is founded could not be more important today.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  2. We want Scotland to be part of an outward-looking United Kingdom in which we can collaborate closely with the EU while embracing the opportunities from free trade with the rest of the world. That is what we need, and that is we want to create. That is what we need, and that is what we want to capitalise on. That is what we need, and that is what we will stand up for. 16:46 Angus Robertson: I appreciate the opportunity to sum up the debate. I have listened closely to all the contributions—the constructive contributions and those less than constructive—and I come back to the importance of the values that we share.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  3. He, too, touched on the UK-EU reset that is about to take place. He spoke about the Scottish nationalists grandstanding and about how the SNP’s record on Europe has not always been as clear as it was presented today. I pay tribute to Alex Cole-Hamilton for discussing the Ukraine war and for his recent visit to Ukraine to deliver ambulances from Scotland. That was very bold, and I pay tribute to him for that. He spoke about the freedoms that we enjoy in the United Kingdom, security issues, the fact that Scotland has a place in Europe—there is no doubt about that—and the proposed plans for a reset. He also talked about where we can work together. Instead of our having a meaningful debate about Scotland’s future relationship with Europe, we have had the usual grievance and received lectures from many members in the chamber.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  4. However, the biggest issue that Mr Kerr discussed was access to fishing rights and how that issue has been manipulated in the past few days. If what we are hearing is being considered behind closed doors is true, that would be a backward step for everybody. Taking back control has been touched on. So far, 70 trade deals have been signed—those are opportunities that this country would not have had if we had still been a member of the EU. As I said, the trade deal with India will create real prosperity for the nation. It has been mentioned that secret summits are under way in which the possibility of giving away fishing grounds is being considered. As we all know, the SNP—the Scottish nationalists—wish to split and take away many of those fishing grounds. Neil Bibby talked about the politics of the issue.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  5. I hope that the Scottish Government can at least try to welcome some of the opportunities that lie ahead in those continents, because they are immense and will give businesses and individuals opportunities to prosper. I turn to some of the speeches that we have heard this afternoon. The cabinet secretary spoke about a reset summit that is to take place in the next week or so, and about the challenges, hopes, aspirations and opportunities that it presents. However, we must think about the defence and security challenges. The cabinet secretary also spoke about the Prime Minister’s recent comments being “a new low for Labour.” My colleague Stephen Kerr gave a passionate speech, as we would expect. He talked about the SNP once again wanting to break up the United Kingdom. The SNP wants to rejoin the EU, abandon processes and drop red lines.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  6. It could increase whisky exports by at least £1 billion in the next five years, bringing money into our economy. We should be celebrating that. The deal will also create countless jobs and opportunities across the sector. The Scotch Whisky Association has called the deal “transformational” and “a landmark moment”. That is very much the case. The crucial thing here, though, is that that deal would not have been possible if the UK were still a part of the EU. I want more of that—I want trade deals in other areas. It is quite telling that the SNP Government was unable to celebrate the deal, despite the significant possibilities and prospects for Scotland that it brings. There are also many future opportunities for Scotland, as the United Kingdom engages with faster-growing markets across Asia, Africa and the Americas.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  7. The deal is the result of several years of negotiation. Although the current UK Government was able to finalise the deal, it was the previous Conservative Government that laid the foundations on which that agreement could be reached. I know how hard the Scottish whisky industry fought to ensure that that vital sector is central to the trade deal. When I met the Indian trade minister two years ago, he told me that he had never seen a country fight so hard for one particular industry. We have all been fighting for that industry, because we know that it will bring us prosperity and opportunity and will give us jobs in our communities. The deal will reduce tariffs on Scottish whisky from 150 per cent to 75 per cent, and will further reduce them to 40 per cent within 10 years.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  8. The centre for economic performance at the London School of Economics has said that “disrupting trade with the rest of the UK could lower Scottish income per capita by at least 6 per cent.” Given that Scotland exports three times more to the rest of the UK than to the European Union, that is not surprising; nor is it surprising that, according to the Fraser of Allander Institute, more than 500,000 jobs are linked to trade with the rest of the United Kingdom. The Scottish Government wants to gloss over the problems of rejoining the European Union. It says that it would be quite an easy thing to achieve, but is glossing over many of the issues that it would face. Earlier this month, the United Kingdom Government concluded a comprehensive trade deal with India. That is a real opportunity.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  9. Patrick Harvie: I wonder whether the member could explain in what way the argument that he is making now is consistent with the fact that, just yesterday, the Conservatives secured a debate that reopened an issue that was settled in 2019— Scotland’s 2045 net zero target. The Conservatives brought to the chamber an unrealistic wish list, or shopping list, of a nightmare fantasy of dumping net zero. Alexander Stewart: Yesterday, we were talking about the economy of Scotland and how jobs are being lost in a sector that is vital to this country and our future economic stability. The Scottish Government says that it is concerned about economic damage, while ignoring the fact that, if we had Scottish independence, we would have economic chaos.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  10. However, that did not stop it taking the opportunity this afternoon to stand up and say its piece, so it is important that we do the same. Instead of setting out a pragmatic and bold vision for how Scotland can exist alongside the European Union, the Scottish Government wants to reopen old wounds and repeat arguments as if it were 2019 again. As usual, the Scottish Government is spending yet more chamber time debating entirely reserved matters. We should be talking today about what is happening in our education system. We could be talking about what is happening with delayed infrastructure projects, such as those on roads. We could be discussing other devolved matters. However, that is not what the Scottish Government wants—once again, it wants to focus on constitutional grievance.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  11. I am delighted to be able to close this debate on behalf of the Scottish Conservatives, and I will be supporting the amendment in the name of my colleague Stephen Kerr. Once again, today’s debate could have been an opportunity to discuss how best Scotland can exist in today’s Europe. It was a chance to highlight opportunities for improved collaboration within the European Union and with our European neighbours as the trading relationship between the United Kingdom and the European Union continues to develop. However, one look at the Government’s motion makes it quite clear that the Scottish Government wanted to have a debate on other topics. Indeed, the Scottish Government is rerunning debates on single market membership, customs union membership and freedom of movement. The Government knows that that shopping list is a complete fantasy.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  12. Plans to build affordable homes for disabled residents in Clackmannan have been delayed while costs are recalculated. The council previously laid proposals to construct bungalows on a site in the town, but those proposals have now been reduced. Given the urgent requirements for more accessible housing in my region, what assurances can the Scottish Government give that it will do all that it can to maximise the availability for that much-needed development to progress?

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  13. To ask the Scottish Government what engagement it has undertaken with stakeholders in response to reported concerns regarding the implementation of the revised non-domestic rates processes for self-catering operators. (S6O- 04660)

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-15 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  14. I know that people in the arts sector are also of that view.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-14 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  15. Increasing visitor numbers at local galleries and museums depends on having innovative collections and material for people to view. Can the cabinet secretary outline what action the Scottish Government is taking to ensure that collections that are held in Edinburgh and Glasgow are shared with local galleries and museums in order to increase footfall? Angus Robertson: The member raises an interesting point. There are significant figures in the artistic community—one of them is Dr Bendor Grosvenor—who have been outspoken in support of wider lending from collections both in Scotland’s national museums and in museums and galleries in London. I am very keen to support the maximum amount of lending that can be supported by local galleries and museums. I would be happy to discuss that with the member, because there is definitely room to grow.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-14 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  16. The investment in new builds and in adaptations by RSLs shows the Government’s commitment to helping to increase the provision of affordable homes, including for those who have particular design needs due to a disability or long-term condition. Carer Support Payment (Earnings Limit) 6.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-08 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  17. There is a significant shortage of accessible housing in Mid Scotland and Fife, which impacts disabled individuals, particularly those who require wheelchair-accessible homes. Although some local authorities have committed to building more accessible homes, the current rates of construction are insufficient to meet the growing demand. What further action can be taken to achieve a resolution to this crisis? Shirley-Anne Somerville: As I mentioned, the £768 million of investment that has been allocated for 2025-26, which Alexander Stewart did not vote for as the budget went through the Parliament, is an important part of that, as is the work that has been undertaken to increase the budget for registered social landlords to allow for the adaptation of current homes.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-08 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  18. I look forward to hearing from the minister about positive work that the Scottish Government has attempted to do when she sums up, but many areas require progress. The cross-party group has been doing exceptional work, and I again pay tribute to my co- convener Emma Harper and Asthma and Lung UK, because we are challenging this on a regular basis. We continue to move things forward. It has been inspirational to meet and discuss the issue with clinicians, professionals and the individuals who suffer from these conditions, because they tell us about the real world that they live in day to day. It is vital that we take on board all their concerns. 13:18

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-01 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  19. We have heard about the FeNO test, which needs to be looked at and progressed. I look forward to hearing what is being consulted on. I strongly agree with many of the recommendations. The Scottish Government must, as a basic duty of care, ensure that the pathways are available for everyone. We have touched on pathways, but not all areas of Scotland have the same pathways, as has been reported. It is vital that we deal with that. In 2023, we saw the highest number of asthma deaths recorded in Scotland in more than 30 years. That is a major issue. We have talked about air quality, people’s living conditions and people’s attitudes, but there needs to be clarity on how we manage the issue across our regions. It is clear that the matter should be urgently tackled.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-01 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  20. There are support groups in my region of Mid- Scotland and Fife, such as Breathe Easy Clackmannanshire Community Group and the breathe easy groups in Dunfermline, Glenrothes, Leven and Kirkcaldy. All those groups support people who have asthma or COPD, and offer support, encouragement and coaching for people in using their inhalers, to make sure that they are effective, which is important. It is also essential that access to treatments is discussed. The subject has been brought up time and again at our cross-party group meetings by patients and health professionals, and the Minister for Public Health and Women’s Health has been present to discuss that. However, some individuals still struggle to obtain access to even the most basic of treatments in some parts of the region.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-01 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  21. Asthma and Lung UK highlights the evidence that shows why prevention is important: it manages inflammation and reduces the risk of asthma attacks. We have heard about the difficulties that individuals have to manage because of air quality. Asthma and Lung UK advocates for moving away from the common blue reliever inhalers in favour of anti-inflammatory reliever inhalers or maintenance and reliever therapy inhalers, which offer real benefits to individuals. The importance of correct inhaler technique cannot be stressed enough; it is vital to ensure that the medication reaches the user’s airways correctly and provides the most benefit. We have heard from patients, consultants and healthcare professionals about the techniques that require to be supported.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-01 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  22. I thank Emma Harper, my fellow co- convener of the cross-party group on lung health, for bringing her members’ business debate to the chamber. As the motion states, the theme of this year’s world asthma day, which takes place on Tuesday 6 May, is “Make Inhaled Treatments Accessible for ALL.” Asthma charities have long called for that. They encourage the use of preventer inhalers for everyone with asthma, emphasising their importance in preventing airway inflammation and reducing the risk of asthma attacks. They also promote alternative reliever inhalers, which appear to be safer and more effective options than the traditional blue ones. If we take a look at the detail of the recommendations, it becomes apparent why they make such good sense.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-05-01 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  23. However, there is a real opportunity for us to work together, to train together and to engage in projects together, all of which will make a difference when it comes to intergenerational issues. 17:23

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-23 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  24. Since 2012, Scotland’s progress has very much stagnated, and there has been a general decline in healthy life expectancy. There has been a rise in mental health issues, too, as we are, sadly, all aware. However, it is important that we also consider the positives that can be achieved. Significant health inequalities indicate not only where we are with regard to intergenerational issues but ways of supporting older people to feel part of the process. In saying all this, I echo the words of the Scottish Fiscal Commission’s chairman, Professor Graeme Roy, who has said that “Scotland faces a real challenge in terms of its overall fiscal sustainability” when it comes to its ageing—and its unhealthy— population. I am anxious to hear what the minister will say in her summing-up speech, when she will talk about where we are.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-23 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  25. Furthermore, a study by the Scottish Fiscal Commission that the BBC highlighted recently has found that issues with people’s health become much more apparent as they get on in years, and discusses how that can be looked at. It says that we face “significant challenges” as a country when it comes to managing how individuals from different generations are supported As for financing what needs to be done, we are well aware that, over the next 20 years, the spending required could have major impacts on what can and will be achieved. The commission’s study talks about several indicators that relate to the decline in the health of the Scottish population, and we have already talked about how, in the past, health inequalities, isolation and loneliness have been big issues.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-23 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  26. Although it is very much the case that the Government must focus on how we deal with ageism and on how older people are managed, it is vital that we think about how those issues work on an international and intergenerational stage. It is also important that we look at what the Scottish Government has done in the past. We know that there have been concerns about how the issues of isolation and loneliness are being tackled. There has been some progress in that regard, but we still have a long way to go in order to make the necessary changes. If nothing else, it gives us the context for where we are with regard to our ageing population. Age Scotland’s report, “The Big Survey 2023”, which contains the results of a survey of people over 50 in Scotland, highlights many areas that need to be addressed and highlighted.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-23 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  27. As members know, I am a co-convener of the Scottish Parliament’s cross-party group on Malawi, and I was delighted to learn recently that the Malawi Network of Older Persons Organisations has taken on the role of Malawi’s country lead for global intergenerational week. As a consortium of civil society organisations working on ageing issues in Malawi, MANEPO is completely dedicated to promoting and protecting the rights of older people across that country. The motion highlights this year’s theme of intergenerational learning and highlights the findings of the World Health Organization’s “Global Report on Ageism”. The report outlines the negative impact of ageism on society, states that education is a key strategy for addressing it and focuses on the vital progress that has been made.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-23 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  28. I am pleased to take up the opportunity to participate in the debate, and I thank Jackie Dunbar for bringing it to the chamber. Indeed, I contributed to a similar debate when I was my party’s shadow minister for older people. Generational working together is, and continues to be, a major issue. It is encouraging to hear that, from humble beginnings, the global intergenerational week event has now grown to an international level in just a few years, and now addresses the international issues that make such a difference to the generations. The campaign is a good chance for us to celebrate local opportunities to bring different age groups together to form friendships, to work together, to learn and to make progress.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-23 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  29. To ask the Scottish Government what action it is taking in response to reports of criminals using drones to infiltrate prisons. (S6O- 04558)

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-23 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  30. We have increased the culture budget in Scotland by the biggest single increment ever and the intention is to continue the growth of that budgetary support for the culture sector. I would welcome Alexander Stewart’s support for that. I note that he voted against the budget, so I will work very hard to persuade him next year that he should vote for the continuing increases in culture funding that the Scottish National Party is delivering in government. Palestine (Humanitarian Response) 4.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-23 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  31. A recent survey of participants in the access all arts fund, which benefits children and young people, found that 92 per cent of recipients experienced a positive impact on their mental health and wellbeing, while 82 per cent said that receiving funding helped them to overcome barriers to the arts. Given the importance of that funding to enable children and young people to flourish in the arts and creative industries sector, what action is being put in place to ensure that that funding continues in coming years? Angus Robertson: I am delighted to hear Mr Stewart’s welcome of the positive impact that arts learning, arts teaching and participation in cultural life has on young people.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-23 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  32. We will continue to champion policies to ensure that we can provide well-paid jobs and have a growing economy and effective and efficient public services. That is exactly what the Scottish public expects from both Governments. However, the spring statement is bad for the economy, bad for business and bad for consumers. 17:10

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-02 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  33. We must ensure that everything that we do supports the environment for businesses in our community. The SNP should not forget that its legacy on success in respect of the economy is not good, either. The actions and deeds of the SNP Government are still causing difficulties for the economy. As has been discussed, the Scottish budget is missing out on £800 million as a result of the SNP’s failure to grow the economy. Conservative members have long called for the SNP Government to use its powers over tax and spending to cut taxes for hard-working Scots, to pass on business rates relief in full and to create a pro-business and pro-innovation environment across Scotland. That is what we want, but we are seeing the opposite. Labour policies have already damaged the UK’s economy, but because of the SNP, the damage in Scotland continues.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-02 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  34. Small businesses are being deterred from taking on staff, which is a disaster for economic growth. The Office for Budget Responsibility has made it clear that the full impact of the reforms is hard to predict because “insufficient detail” has been provided. That means that the growth that is forecast for the coming year could be even lower than has been predicted. The OBR has also highlighted that North Sea oil and gas revenues could fall by more than half by the end of the decade, from £5.4 billion to £2.3 billion. That is partly a result of the anti-investment policies of the UK and Scottish Governments, which are slowly turning their backs on an industry that supports 100,000 jobs. We cannot go down that road. We must not put such strain on our economy.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-02 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  35. The Federation of Small Businesses has said that the reforms are “rushed ... clumsy, chaotic and poorly planned.” They are not what business needs to hear from the new Government by way of support. Paul O’Kane: Is Alexander Stewart seriously suggesting that giving a pay rise to 300,000 Scots—the lowest-paid Scots—is simply a matter of red tape? Is he suggesting that giving people day 1 rights on sick pay or ensuring that they are not subject to fire and rehire or zero-hours contracts is bad? Alexander Stewart: Labour cannot achieve those things in the absence of the growth in the economy that is required to make them happen. Labour knows that, and it is not achieving it. The FSB has also said that the Government’s proposals will “deter small employers from taking on new staff”. That is the case.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-02 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  36. The increase in national insurance contributions alone will have a significant impact on staffing decisions for businesses across the country. Even though that increase will not come into effect until later this week, many companies have already frozen recruitment and increased their prices, and we know that that tax increase will cost jobs and slow economic growth. The only question is by how much it will do so. However, it is not just the jobs tax that is creating uncertainty in the labour market. The Government is also pressing ahead with its workers’ rights reforms, which are opposed by employers of every shape and size the length and breadth of the country. Not content with charging companies more for the privilege of employing people, the Labour Government also wants to tie up employers with red tape.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-02 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  37. Labour’s spring statement was, in effect, an emergency budget that needed to signal a change of direction to get the economy back on track, but that did not happen. With the prospect of tariffs coming, which we have known about for some time, we would have hoped that there would have been improvements to provide certainty. Once again, however, such certainty is lacking. In the light of the continued uncertainty in Europe, Labour’s decision to increase defence spending can be welcomed, but from the point of view of growth and long-term investment in our economy, the spring statement failed to deliver the clarity and certainty that are needed for taxpayers and businesses across Scotland. Although the Labour Government says that growth is its number 1 priority, that was not reflected at all in the spring statement.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-02 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  38. Last summer, many of us warned about the economic damage that would ensue if Labour was to form the next United Kingdom Government. Since Labour came into power in July, we have seen many of those fears become reality. Inflation is increasing once again, and UK growth stalled in the second part of 2024. The latest forecasts predict that, in 2025, growth will be half of what was previously predicted. Although that is bad news for the British economy, none of it is too surprising. The UK Labour Government is a high-tax, high-regulation Government that is undermining the confidence of business across the whole of the UK, but businesses here in Scotland also have to deal with a second high-tax agenda—that of the SNP Government.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-02 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  39. I am working with other members of the Scottish Government to look at a task and finish group so as to move forward and ensure that we have the best heart disease support and care in Scotland. Vaccination Services (NHS Highland) 4.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-02 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  40. The issue that the minister just talked about is not being covered by many health boards, as we have seen at the cross-party group. There still seems to be a postcode lottery when it comes to individuals receiving the care and attention that they require. Having a disease action plan for the heart is vitally important. Clinicians and practitioners have come to the cross-party group to express their concerns. I have heard what the minister has said so far, but I am still not convinced that that action plan and the way forward are going to be addressed in the short term. Jenni Minto: I recognise the work that Alexander Stewart does on the CPG. Last week, I met members of our cardiac clinical advisory team to discuss exactly those differences of service across the country.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-04-02 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  41. A Black Watch historian once said: “In a Highland Regiment every individual feels that his conduct is the subject of observation ... independently of his duty”. I pay tribute to each and every individual who has served, has given their time and talent and has made sacrifices, including those who have lost their lives for the regiment. The Black Watch continues its historic legacy, and I wish it continued success. The regiment’s dedication and past reputation are still very relevant today, as they will be in the future. 13:08

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-03-27 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  42. The Black Watch certainly plays its role in that regard. Many individuals visit the facility through the education programme that it provides. Our military history is vital and plays a huge part in maintaining our Scottish traditions. We should all ensure that there are opportunities for young people to learn about the hard work and the sacrifice of regiments such as the Black Watch, including in our classrooms. In the four minutes that I have for my speech, I cannot even scratch the surface of the Black Watch’s history. Many members will impart their views, opinions and stories throughout the debate, and I look forward to hearing them. It is important to reflect on the spirit, honour and dedication that have been fundamental to the regiment.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-03-27 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  43. Each family has a strong story to tell about the bravery and dedication of individuals who served in the regiment. Liz Smith also spoke about the Black Watch museum at Balhousie castle. I pay tribute to all the volunteers who keep that venue open. I am a regular attendee at Balhousie castle, and I was pleased that the museum marked its 10th anniversary in 2023. More than a million people have visited the museum since it opened, and the site has received multiple industry awards since the £3.5 million development was completed in 2013. I was privileged to serve as a councillor on Perth and Kinross Council when the museum was being developed, which I supported. The museum’s trustees and success remind us of the importance of showcasing local history. That legacy is alive, and we must ensure that it remains for future generations.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-03-27 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  44. I am delighted to contribute to this important debate celebrating 300 years of the Black Watch, and I thank my friend and colleague Liz Smith for bringing it to the chamber. Seven generations of my family have been born and raised in Perthshire, and some of them have served in the ranks of the Black Watch during its history. Growing up in Perthshire, I was aware of the Black Watch from an early age and recognised the regiment’s cultural significance across many areas of Scotland. That awareness only grew stronger with age, as many local families had a connection and, often, lifelong involvement with the regiment. Liz Smith spoke about the regiment’s reputation for fearlessness in many conflicts, which is renowned. Those sentiments are shared among all Black Watch families from many areas across Perthshire, Fife, Dundee and Angus.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-03-27 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  45. Planning Applications (Support for Local Authorities) 3.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-03-26 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  46. Without clear adjustment, discretionary funding in capital figures risks appearing stable or even increased when the reality is that it is being artificially inflated. That undermines transparency and hampers scrutiny of the Scottish Government’s investment record. Will the cabinet secretary provide spending figures that are published on a like-for-like basis? If she does not do that, it can confuse Parliament and mislead the public. Shona Robison: Far from doing that, I say to Alexander Stewart that we took on board the comments of the Finance and Public Administration Committee and changed the budget comparisons to meet its requirements. We did so in order to provide that additional transparency, which has received acknowledgement from a number of independent stakeholders and commentators, and we will continue to do that.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-03-26 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  47. John Mason: Buying one coffee in this Parliament would count as buying something once a year, but that is not a very high bar.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-03-25 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  48. I am pleased to contribute on behalf of the Scottish Conservatives, and I will be supporting the amendment in the name of Murdo Fraser. We strongly welcome the recent news that Scotland has retained its status as a fair trade nation, reflecting Scotland’s national commitment to ethical trade across the globe as we work towards an economy that is fair for everyone. The concept of fair trade is not only welcomed across this chamber but has received widespread public support. Data from a recent report confirms that 97 per cent of Scots are aware of the concept of fair trade; that 85 per cent purchase fair trade items at least once a year, with 66 per cent purchasing at least once a month; and that almost 70 per cent of local councils agree with fair trade. Those are strong commitments, and they are vitally important.

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-03-25 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  49. This week, evening bus services through Tillicoultry’s main bus stance have been suspended from 7 pm due to incidents of antisocial behaviour. McGill’s and Midland Bluebird have taken that action due to a rise in violent incidents that have occurred this month. Such services are a lifeline for night-time workers, among others, and such behaviour is completely unacceptable. What urgent action can be taken to ensure the safety of bus drivers, passengers and the general public so that they are protected from needless violence?

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-03-20 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT

  50. We must take action to ensure that that data is required to be produced. Hospitals should be a safe place for treatment, not an environment for sexual violence. 17:45

    MEETING OF THE PARLIAMENT, 2025-03-19 · READ THE OFFICIAL REPORT