Eilidh Whiteford MP for Banff & Buchan

Welfare Reforms Show 'Compassionless UK Coalition'

2012-02-01T19:55:00.000Z

INCREASING EVIDENCE FOR WELFARE TO BE DEVOLVED

SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP this evening hit out the ‘compassionless UK Coalition’ after MP’s overturned Lords amendments to the Welfare Reform Bill.

Dr Whiteford said there was increasing evidence that the welfare system should be devolved and highlighted evidence from the Scottish Local Government Forum Against Poverty and Rights Advice Scotland who have warned that UK welfare reforms will remove a safety net for hardworking taxpayers and their families.

Dr Whiteford said:

“The UK Government has exposed itself as an out-of-touch and compassionless coalition.

“It is increasingly clear that the only way we will get a welfare policy that suits Scotland’s needs is by having the powers to set that policy in Scotland.

“From time limiting contributory Employment and Support Allowance to cuts in the availability and level of crisis loans, it is the most disadvantaged in our communities that are paying the price of the Tories reforms.

“Reform of the benefits system is necessary but the Tory/LibDem Coalition Government’s plan looks increasingly like an assault on the most disadvantaged. We must not have cuts for the sake of cuts. Not only would that risk forcing the most vulnerable in society into a perilous position, it also takes vital capital out of the economy without consideration of the impact.

“While reform is necessary, it must be done carefully and decisions on entitlements based on medical need – not government spin.

“The welfare system should maximise the potential for all people to work and live free from poverty, however, this cannot be achieved through cuts in support for disadvantaged people.

“This issue shows yet again the different stance Scotland would take if we had the power to legislate on this issue and it is our clear view that it is the Scottish Parliament, not the UK Parliament, that should decide on welfare policy for Scotland – as would be the case if Scotland was independent.”

Whiteford & Stevenson Meet With Sangs Workforce

2012-01-30T16:51:00.001Z

LocalMSP Stewart Stevenson andBanff & Buchan MP EilidhWhiteford have met with workers from Sangs in Macduff yesterday(Sunday).

TheParliamentarians were there to hear concerns from the employees and also toupdate them on efforts being made by the Scottish Government to secure thefuture of the plant and the jobs in Macduff.

Speakingafter the meeting, Eilidh WhitefordMP said:

“Having already talked to the administratorsand management, I welcomed the opportunity to speak directly with thestaff. Obviously, it's a difficult anduncertain time for everyone.

“I was able to tell the staff that the Scottish Government’s EnterpriseMinister, Fergus Ewing, will be meeting with Allied Irish Bank and theadministrators in the coming week, and will, as a first priority, be pressingfor time for Sangs to continue trading while potential buyers are beingidentified.

“Having talked with the administrators and the staff, it's clear to me thatSangs is a viable business with a lot of potential. I am confident that it will be attractive topotential buyers, but we need time in order to secure a deal.

“Sangs has been part of the local community for decades, and has a loyal andmotivated workforce. Stewart Stevenson and I will be doing everything we can toprotect the jobs based here in Macduff.”

Happier Times

Banffshire& Buchan Coast MSP StewartStevenson added:

“Thiswas a useful meeting with the staff and an opportunity for them to receive anupdate on the work going on behind the scenes on the part of the ScottishGovernment.

“Thereis no doubt that the Scottish Government recognises the huge importance ofSangs to the Macduff and wider Banffshire economy and I hope that the effortsof Enterprise Minister Fergus Ewing and his team will help to maintain Sangs inMacduff for years to come.”

Whiteford Hears Young People's Input On Local Issues

2012-01-30T13:39:00.000Z

SNP Banff and Buchan MP, Dr Eilidh Whiteford, this week visited Fraserburgh Academy to meet with representatives of the Academy’s pupil council and the Fraserburgh Youth Council to hear their views on a range of issues.

Topics under discussion ranged from of activities for young people in Fraserburgh to the extension of the vote to 16 and 17 year olds in the forthcoming independence referendum and future elections.


Dr Whiteford Mark Buchan, Chair, Fraserburgh Youth Council Fraserburgh Academy Pupil Council Fraserburgh Youth Council

Speaking after the meeting, Dr Whiteford commented:

“I was delighted to be able to meet with the Fraserburgh Youth Council and the Fraserburgh Academy Pupil Council and hear their views on a whole range of current issues. It is great to see a large number of young people who have an inspiring sense of civic duty and are willing to act and get involved to make their town a better place.”

“The young folk also displayed a genuine interest in the forthcoming independence referendum. They had their own well-considered opinions and questions on the issue, and it was clear that they were itching to have their say in the debate. For me, this perfectly illustrated the argument for the right to vote in the referendum and all elections to be extended to 16 and 17 year olds. On the basis of my experience with young people of that age, I do not see how anyone could consider denying them that right, and their say.”

Mark Buchan, 16, Chairman of Fraserburgh Youth Council and in his 5^th year at Fraserburgh Academy commented:

“This was a really good opportunity for young people to engage with their local MP. I hope it has given Dr Whiteford an indication of young people’s priorities for the town and sends a positive message about young people in general, that we are enthusiastic and want to be involved and empowered in our communities.”

Research Reveals Concerns Over Flawed Welfare Assessments

2012-01-24T14:58:00.000Z

MUNDELL UNAWARE HOW MANY AFFECTED BY WELFARE REFORMS IN SCOTLAND
SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Eilidh Whiteford MP has seized on a report published today (Tuesday) by the Scottish Association for Mental Health (SAMH) which warns that the UK Government’s Work Capability Assessment for Employment Support Allowance (ESA) is not able to properly assess mental health.

The report comes as Tory Scotland Office Minister David Mundell, speaking on BBC Good Morning Scotland, was unable to say how many people in Scotland would be affected by UK Government welfare reforms. Mr Mundell was asked repeatedly how many people would be affected by plans for a benefits cap.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“The UK Government must respond to the research from the Scottish Association for Mental Health that the assessment for ESA is flawed and failing to properly assess mental health.

“These findings echo the concerns raised in the independent review by Professor Malcolm Harrington which found that the assessment process was impersonal, mechanistic and lacks empathy.

“There are already huge questions over the assessment process with people undergoing chemotherapy, in some cases terminally ill people, being ordered to attend back-to-work interviews.

“As these concerns persist it is frankly shocking that the Scotland Office is apparently unaware how many people in Scotland will be affected by his party’s welfare reforms.

“There is a need to reform the benefit system, but genuinely vulnerable individuals must not become an easy target for Conservative and Liberal cuts.

“Return-to-work initiatives can benefit both the economy and the individual, but people should only return to the workplace when they are genuinely able and when correct support measures are available.

“Existing safeguards are not working and, with major reforms in the pipeline, we need real guarantees to ensure that that people living with genuine incapacity and ill health are spared added stress and uncertainty.

“This issue shows yet again the different stance Scotland would take if we had the power to legislate on this issue and it is our clear view that it is the Scottish Parliament, not the UK Parliament, that should decide on welfare policy for Scotland – as would be the case if Scotland was independent.”

SNP Warning On Welfare Reform

2012-01-23T15:12:00.000Z

INCREASING EVIDENCE FOR WELFARE TO BE DEVOLVED

SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP today (Monday) said there was increasing evidence that the welfare system should be devolved as the Scottish Local Government Forum Against Poverty and Rights Advice Scotland warned that UK welfare reforms will remove a safety net for hardworking taxpayers and their families.

The report comes as Peers challenge proposals for a benefits cap, and follows wider criticisms by SCVO that the reforms could leave Scottish local government, the Scottish Government and Scotland’s third sector picking up the pieces.

Dr Whiteford said:

“It is increasingly clear that the only way we will get a welfare policy that suits Scotland’s needs is by having the powers to set that policy in Scotland.

“The Local Government Forum Against Poverty and Rights Advice Scotland report adds substantially to the mounting concerns about the UK Government’s reforms, and shows the wider impact that these reforms will have, not only on individuals, but on the wider economy.

“From time limiting contributory Employment and Support Allowance to cuts in the availability and level of crisis loans, it is the most disadvantaged in our communities that are paying the price of the Tories reforms.

“Reform of the benefits system is necessary but the Tory/LibDem Coalition Government’s plan looks increasingly like an assault on the most disadvantaged. We must not have cuts for the sake of cuts. Not only would that risk forcing the most vulnerable in society into a perilous position, it also takes vital capital out of the economywithout consideration of the impact.

“While reform is necessary, it must be done carefully and decisions on entitlements based on medical need – not government spin.

“The welfare system should maximise the potential for all people to work and live free from poverty, however, this cannot be achieved through cuts in support for disadvantaged people.

“This issue shows yet again the different stance Scotland would take if we had the power to legislate on this issue and it is our clear view that it is the Scottish Parliament, not the UK Parliament, that should decide on welfare policy for Scotland – as would be the case if Scotland was independent.”

Time Runs Out For Ill-Considered Clock Change Plans

2012-01-22T22:46:00.000Z

Proposals in the Westminster Parliament tochange daylight saving time, which would have plunged Scotland intodarkness until later in the morning, have failed.

A Private Member’s Bill, promoted byConservative MPs from the south and south-east of England was defeated in the Houseof Commons on Friday. Banff & BuchanMP Dr Eilidh Whiteford tookpart in the debate and voted against the Bill.

Speakingin the House of Commons, Dr Whiteford said:

“Ultimately, it is aquality of life issue. One thing that struck me after the last debate on theBill was that a huge number of people from England, mostly older people whoremember the last trial, got in touch with me by letter, phone or e-mail. Theyall said the same thing: “This was a disaster when they did it in the ’70s.”They found it miserable getting up, going to work and delivering things in thedark. People who remember it did not like it.

“That has to be ourarbiter: is this going to be helpful for our quality of life? I know that it isgoing to impact more on my part of the world than some other parts of theseislands. For the sake of our health and well-being, we need to think carefullybefore messing around with something that might not need to be changed.

Commenting afterwards, Dr Whiteford said:

“MPs from the south attempted to push through thisBill, and with it the prospect of darker mornings for everyone north of Manchester, with littleregard to the impact these changes would have on the quality of life for peoplein the north.

“I had real concerns that no account was beingtaken of our climate and the fact that the coldest hours are before dawn. Whilethere’s not much evidence that daylight is a decisive factor in road safety, weknow that weather conditions play a very significant role. Minimising the timedrivers and pedestrians spend on icy roads and pavements has to be a keyconsideration.

“The evidence put forward supporting this changewas entirely untested, and the proponents of this Bill have ignored the soundreasons why this change was abandoned after being trialled in the 1970s, andmore recently by other European neighbours who found that the shift had adamaging effect on safety, health, energy consumption and commerce.

“This change would be acutely felt in Scotland,raising real safety and quality of life concerns. I’m therefore pleased that the Bill hasfallen and will not be progressing any further.”

Whiteford Presses UK Government On Funding For Peterhead CCS Project

2012-01-17T22:20:00.000Z

Participatingin a Westminster Hall debate on carbon capture storage (CCS) projects earliertoday (Tuesday) SNP Member of Parliament for Banff & Buchan, Dr Eilidh Whiteford challengedthe UK Government to provide clarity on the funding and support available forthe proposed Peterhead project.

Anannouncement was made in November 2011 of a new joint development agreementbetween Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) and Shell UK Ltd for the developmentof a gas demonstrator CCS project at Peterhead, dependent on support from UK andEU funding streams.

Pressingthe UK Government on their promise of access to £1 billion worth of funding forCCS projects, Dr Whiteford commented:

“Carbon capture storage ispotentially game-changing technology and Peterhead has been identified as thebest site in the UKfor a gas demonstrator project.

“Peterheadlost a CCS project once before due to the previous Labour government being slowto act. Support from government and access to finance was not forthcoming, soinvestors simply upped sticks and took their technology and investmentsomewhere else.

“Itis vital that we avoid a repeat of that situation, and that the UK Governmentprovide access to finance within the timeframe of this parliament, so that thePeterhead scheme can move forward.

"I welcome the Government's indicationthat they are committed to bringing forward the new competition for fundingnext month, but the process needs to move swiftly if we are to avoid moremissed opportunities. “

Local Representatives Comment On Sangs

2012-01-16T20:04:00.000Z

Commenting on the announcement that softdrinks manufacturer Sangs – producers of the popular MacB brand – have goneinto administration, Banff & Buchan MP EilidhWhiteford said:

“This is very sad news for Macduff and for Sangs,who are one of the town’s major employers.

“I will be speaking with the administrators, ZolfoCooper, to ascertain the position and to offer what help and assistance I canin seeking to secure the future of the plant and the workforce.

“Based on what the administrators are saying, it ismy view that there is still the potential for a bright future for the plant,but I’m under no illusions that it won’t be easy in the current economicclimate.”

Banffshire& Buchan Coast MSP StewartStevenson said:

“Sangs have a long and proud history in Banff and Macduff so thisnews is obviously very disappointing indeed.

“The company has made great strides in recent yearsand its award-winning MacB drinks is a very strong brand indeed which enjoysinternational recognition.

“We can take encouragement that the administratorswill continue to trade the company and will look at all options. My hope is obviously that it will continue inMacduff and I will be contacting the administrators to offer any assistancethey require in my role as local MSP.”

SNPcouncillor for Macduff Bob Watsonsaid:

“It must be a very worrying time for the staff andthe local community but the administrators have said there is a strongunderlying core business, which I think is a testament to the staff andmanagement there. The Sangs and MacBbrands are very good ones so I would hope that the company can trade out of itsdifficulties. In the meantime, I urgeshoppers to ‘buy local’ and support the staff at Sangs at this difficult time.”

MP Praises Family History Society's Initiative

2012-01-15T11:44:00.000Z

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford has praised the Family History Societyof Buchan on their initiative after attending the official opening of their newresource centre overlooking Peterhead Harbour.

The local MP was invited to attend theofficial opening yesterday (Saturday) which was performed by Peterhead PortAuthority Chief Executive John Wallace.

Commenting, Eilidh said:

“Family history and genealogical research isbecoming increasingly popular and is becoming an important part of localtourism.

“This fantastic new facility is a credit to thehard work of the volunteers who have taken the Society forward from itsformation just a few short years ago.

“I congratulate the Family History Society ofBuchan on their impressive facility and the resources within and I’m sure thatit will become an important stopping-off point for visitors to the town.”

SNP Dismiss Gove's Schoolboy Bullying

2012-01-13T10:50:00.000Z

PENSIONS & WELFARE MORE AFFORDABLE IN INDEPENDENT SCOTLAND

The SNP has dismissed Tory scaremongering after England’s Education Secretary Michael Gove this morning made a series of unsubstantiated claims – including bizarre suggestions that an independent Scotland would no longer have an NHS or maintain welfare payments.

SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP rubbished Mr Gove’s scaremongering over the NHS and pointed out that an independent Scotland is better placed to fund pensions and welfare compared to the UK.

Dr Whiteford said:

“Michael Gove is behaving like a silly schoolboy – his Tory bullying of Scotland does not stand up to any scrutiny.

“Mr Gove is surely aware that Scotland’s NHS is already independent, which is why the Scottish Government have been able to shield it from the disastrous privatisation plans the Tories are pursuing in England.

“As for welfare, the reality is that Scotland is actually better placed to fund pensions and welfare compared to the UK. On the basis of taxes raised in Scotland, and once our welfare protection expenditure and state pensions are paid, Scotland actually has a relative surplus compared to the UK. In short Scotland is more able to afford our pension and welfare bill than the UK.

“Taking all spending in Scotland into account and all of our revenues, Scotland has run a current budget surplus in four of the five years to 2009/10 – while the UK was in current budget deficit in each of these years, and hasn’t run a current budget surplus since 2001/02.

“When all of Scotland’s resources are included in our nation’s economic output, an independent Scotland would be ranked sixth in the world league table of OECD nations in terms of gross domestic product per head – ten places ahead of the UK at sixteen.”

“Michael Gove’s parroting of Tory arguments to talk Scotland down and scaremonger shows how little confidence they have in their case.”

Note:

Figures from GERS (Government Expenditure & Revenue in Scotland) show how an independent Scotland is better placed to fund pensions and welfare compared to the UK.

The analysis of the figures from GERS show that the size of Scotland’s social/welfare protection expenditure and state pension bill as a share of government revenue (with revenue being the money Scotland raises in tax for the very purpose of paying for public services) shows that in Scotland between 2005 and 2010 Scotland’s pension expenditure was 15.1% of Scottish revenues, less than the 15.7% for the UK.

And in terms of social/welfare protection expenditure it was 41.9% of Scottish revenues, less than the 43.2% for the UK.

Do More To Tackle Fuel Poverty Treasury Told

2012-01-05T09:49:00.000Z

CHANCELLOR POCKETS £1.4BN FROM RISING ENERGY BILLS
The UK Government must do more to tackle fuel poverty the SNP said as it emerged that the Chancellor had pocketed £1.4 billion over the last year in VAT from domestic energy bills.

Sharp increases in energy prices by the big six energy companies over the summer could see that total increase by a further £150 million, prompting SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Eilidh Whiteford MP to demand the UK Government do more to help vulnerable households.

Dr Whiteford said:

“While vulnerable households in Scotland worry how they are going to afford their winter fuel bills the Chancellor is raking in record amounts of VAT from gas and electricity bills.

“Over the last year the Chancellor has pocketed £1.4 billion in VAT from soaring energy bills, but he has done precious little to help the people who suffer from fuel poverty in Scotland. It is high time that the UK government used some of this windfall to tackle fuel poverty.

“The SNP government is working hard on improving energy efficiency in Scotland’s homes. Our £50million warm homes fund will build on the success of the energy assistance package helping those in communities worst affected by fuel poverty.

“Since April 2009, the existing EAP has helped over 150,000 people on low incomes reduce their energy bills and keep their homes warm, now and for years to come. However in tackling fuel poverty we are in a constant battle with rising prices.

“Fuel poverty is a disgrace in energy-rich Scotland, and if the UK Government does not want to help then they should transfer the energy and economic powers from Westminster to the Scottish Parliament to allow the Scottish Government to act.”

UK Government Energy Advice Failing

2012-01-03T00:01:00.000Z

Calls by the UK Government for energy customers to switch energy suppliers for better deals are not working an SNP MP warned after a parliamentary question revealed that the number of gas and electricity customers moving suppliers has actually fallen over recent years.

Banff and Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford said that, if the UK government was serious about reducing domestic energy bills they needed to look at how prices rise quickly when the wholesale price goes up, but fall slowly, if at all, when the wholesale price falls.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“Encouraging customers to switch between energy suppliers has been the UK Governments answer to tackling the problems of sky high bills, but it is clear from these figures that this strategy is not working.

“The sad fact is that most people who are already on a direct debit payment are unlikely to make a significant saving by switching and, indeed, research has shown that many of those who switch have actually ended up on a worse deal.

“Over the summer we saw the big six energy suppliers go through a follow my lead of rising energy prices. How is the average consumer supposed to know what is a good deal without knowing when the next company is going to hike prices?

“Prices are rising much faster even than the ability to cut costs by reducing consumption.

“If the UK government were serious about the reduction in energy bills they need to look at how prices rise quickly when the wholesale price goes up, but fall slowly, if at all, when the wholesale price falls.”

Dr Whiteford’s parliamentary question is detailed below:

Dr Whiteford: To ask the Secretary of State for Energy and Climate Change whether he has made an estimate of the number of energy customers who switched suppliers (a) once and (b) twice or more in each of the last five years. [82159]

Charles Hendry: The following table shows the number of customers who have switched from one supplier to another during the last five years.

        Electricity     Gas
2006    4.836           3.912
2007    5.157           3.981
2008    5.427           4.158
2009    5.022           3.825
2010    4.746           3.558

                   (millions)

Tory Boundary Changes Will Harm Democracy - MP

2011-12-31T15:59:00.000Z

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford has submitted her response to the Boundary Commission for Scotland’s Sixth Review of UK Parliament Constituencies.

Proposals from the Tory/Lib Dem London Government will see the number of Scottish MPs reduced from the present 59 to 52 and constituencies made much larger as a result.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“I have concerns regarding the size of the constituencies being proposed for Scotland, both in terms of numbers of electors and geographical area. The reduction in the number of elected MPs takes place in a context where they are already outnumbered by unelected members of the House of Lords. I fear fewer MPs serving unwieldy constituencies will only serve to make elected representatives more remote from their constituents.”

Regarding the new boundaries proposed for Banff & Buchan, which sees Ellon and surrounding areas move into the constituency, Dr Whiteford continued:

“Insofar as there will be changes, then reuniting the communities of Buchan into the same constituency makes sense.

“The communities of Buchan, from Fraserburgh to Ellon and from Turriff to Peterhead, were part of the same constituency for nearly a hundred years, so it is logical to use what worked well in the past as a blueprint for trying to make these changes work.”

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson added:

“Community ties and historic connections are important in defining constituencies.

“I argued successfully when the Scottish Parliament constituencies were being reviewed that it would be quite wrong to name a new constituency stretching westward to Buckie “Buchan Coast”. The eventual name, Banffshire & Buchan Coast, is far more reflective of the communities which make up the constituency.

“Similarly, for the Westminster constituency, the opportunity has arisen to reunite historic Buchan and I am pleased that the Boundary Commission have recognised that with their initial proposals.”

Whiteford Appeal Over Farepak 'Nightmare Of Christmas Past'

2011-12-24T22:45:00.000Z

AFTER FIVE YEARS IT IS TIME FOR A FAIR DEAL FORFAREPAK FAMILIES

SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson and local MP Eilidh Whiteford has issued aChristmas appeal to the UK Government calling for compensation for Farepakfamilies, who are still waiting for reparation five years after the collapse ofthe Christmas saving scheme.

Comparing the UK Government’s response to bailingout the banks with Farepak, Dr Whiteford has written to Business SecretaryVince Cable, asking why 20,000 Scottish customers who lost their Christmassavings in 2006 – including many in Banff & Buchan - are still out ofpocket.

Commenting, Eilidh said:

“The UKGovernment bent-over-backwards to bail out the banks, and is rightlycompensating customers of Equitable Life but hasn’t found a single penny forthe Farepak families.

“It is five years since Farepak collapsed, butthat nightmare of Christmas past is still being felt by many low incomefamilies. Savers are likely to recover just 5p in the pound, while the finalbill for the administrators and their legal advisers has already exceeded £8million.

“It is simply disgraceful that, years after thecompany collapsed, that customers are still waiting for their money back.

“The UK Government needs to bringforward compensation for these families, particularly given that it was itsfailure to secure adequate consumer protection through regulation that allowedthe Farepak Christmas crisis to happen.

“UKMinisters should step in without further delay to secure compensation for thosewho lost out so badly.”

Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP Delivers Christmas Encouragement To Royal Mail Posties At Peterhead Delivery Office

2011-12-22T09:59:00.002Z

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has visited Royal Mail’s Peterhead Delivery Office to pass on best Christmas wishes and encouragement to the postmen and women at their busiest time of year.

Eilidh was shown round the Delivery Office by local Delivery Office Manager Garry Saunders and was introduced to all the postmen and women who are working hard doing their bit to sort and deliver the area’s share of the estimated total Scottish Christmas postbag of over 180 million items.

Commenting, Eilidh said:

Kevin Thom; Eilidh Whiteford MP;
James Whyte; Garry Saunders (l to r)

“It was great to meet the hard-working Royal Mail postmen and women at Peterhead Delivery Office and to see at first hand just how much effort they put into delivering the Christmas post for people at this time of year.

“Posties do such an important job at this time of year and I like to thank them for their efforts and wish them all the best over the busy festive period.”

Garry Saunders, Royal Mail Delivery Office Manager at Peterhead said:

“Christmas is the busiest time of year, and our people really do pull out all the stops to deliver the Christmas mailbag. We are pleased that Eilidh came along to witness the hard work that goes on behind the scenes.”

He added:

“The postal staff do a fantastic job at this time of year to ensure that friends and families stay in touch through their Christmas greetings and gifts. And as usual, we urge our customers to post early so that friends and family have longer to enjoy their Christmas greetings!”

It is also vital that people remember the last posting dates for mail. These are:

Tuesday 20 December for 1st Class items
Saturday 17 December for 2nd Class items
Thursday 22 December for Special Delivery items
Monday 12 December for airmail items to Western Europe
Friday 9 December for Eastern Europe, the USA, Canada and Japan
Monday 5 December for mail to the rest of the world

To help Royal Mail at its busiest time of the year, customers are being encouraged to take a few simple steps:

Post early – to help Royal Mail spread the workload, post early and order presents early. The last posting dates this Christmas are: December 17 for 2nd Class mail; December 20 for 1st Class mail; December 22 for Special Delivery
Use a postcode – A clearly addressed card or parcel, with a postcode, helps Royal Mail sort the item more efficiently
Use Special Delivery – For valuable packages and parcels guarantee delivery, Royal Mail’s Special Delivery service is recommended, This means your gift is tracked, traced and insured against loss
Parcelforce Worldwide’s Express services – These offer fast international delivery across the world from next working day, and the Scheduled service takes from three working days. Available to 240 countries worldwide, both are ideal for sending valuable and treasured items across the globe. For more information visit www.parcelforce.com
For more information about Christmas with Royal Mail visit: http://www.royalmail.com/ or call 08457 740 740.

Fisheries Talks Underline Need For Scottish Voice In Europe

2011-12-21T14:58:00.004Z

SNP Fisheries Spokeswoman, Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP said the outcome of the EU fisheries talks underlined the damage done to Scotland’s relationship with the European Union by the behaviour of the UK Government.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“Scotland’s Fisheries Minister Richard Lochhead worked through the night to ease the pressure on the Scottish fishing fleet but it is clear more could have been achieved if Scotland had started from a stronger position at the talks.

“There can be no doubt that the irresponsible political posturing of the UK Government made securing the concessions we needed at these fisheries talks more difficult.

“An independent Scotland would be able to take our own seat at the top table and negotiate the best deal for Scotland.”

MP Helps Deliver Christmas Cheer To Sheltered Housing Residents

2011-12-19T17:36:00.003Z

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford joined members of the Rosehearty Bonfire Committee in delivering Christmas food hampers to elderly residents of Malcolm Forbes Court, Pitsligo Street, Rosehearty yesterday (Sunday).

Each year, the Rosehearty Bonfire Committee raise money at their fireworks display which is used to buy the hampers, which are delivered to elderly residents at Christmas.

Commenting afterwards, Eilidh Whiteford said:

“It was a pleasure to help the Rosehearty Bonfire Committee with their annual hamper delivery to the older residents in the village and the Committee are to be commended for such a worthwhile initiative.

“The hampers I helped to deliver were very well-received by the residents at Malcolm Forbes Court, as I am sure they were throughout the village.”

Whiteford Highlights Farmers' Frustrations In Commons Debate

2011-12-14T10:19:00.000Z

EGG IMPORTS UNDER FIRE

As the implementation date for a new European Council Directive edges ever closer, SNP Member of Parliament for Banff & Buchan, Dr Eilidh Whiteford, has spoken out in the House of Commons on the inadequate legal framework to enforce the new Directive and protect Scottish farmers.

The Directive, which sets down minimum standards for improving the welfare of laying hens and prohibits the use of conventional ‘battery’ cages, is due to come into force on 1st January 2012.

Egg producers in Banff and Buchan have invested heavily in upgrading their facilities in line with the requirements of the Directive. However, it is clear that not all eggs produced in the EU will be compliant by the implementation date. This has led to concerns that ‘illegal’ eggs and egg products could find their way into the UK market, and undermine UK and Scottish farmers.

The SNP’s Dr Whiteford commented after speaking in a Westminster debate, attended by the UK Government Minister for Agriculture and Food:

“What has emerged from the debate today is that no powers exist for the EU or any member state to introduce a ban preventing non-complaint eggs from being traded.”

“It is incredible that we are powerless to stop illegally produced eggs from entering our country, when the producers of those eggs have had 12 years to bring their production up to standard.”

“I welcome the representations that have been made to the European Commission on this issue, and the steps taken by the UK and Scottish Governments to mitigate the worst effects of this Directive, but I share the frustration of farmers in my own constituency, and across Scotland, who will have their investment and their competitiveness undermined.”

“There has been a complete lack of foresight from the European Commission in failing to put enforcement measures in place for egg producers that did not comply with this Directive. The Commission and member states with compliant industries are now practically impotent to prevent the import of illegally produced eggs.

“Valuable lessons must be learned from this experience to ensure that we do not implement new European rules to see other EU members flout them with impunity."

Dr Whiteford had previously won assurances from the Chief Executives of Tesco, Morrisons and ASDA that none of their eggs or own-brand egg products would be sourced from non-compliant eggs.

European Council Directive 1999/74/EC will come into effect from 1 January 2012. The Directive sets down minimum standards for improving the welfare of laying hens and prohibits the use of conventional (‘battery’) cages.

MP Visits Fraserburgh Birthing Unit

2011-12-13T09:36:00.002Z

Commenting following her visit to the Birthing Unit at Fraserburgh Hospital on Friday, Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford said:

“This was a very useful visit and it was helpful to meet staff and see at first hand the facilities that are currently available.

“The consultation document highlights the shortcomings in existing provision and the limitations of the birthing unit. However, as we saw with the severe weather last week, Fraserburgh is some distance from acute NHS services and NHS managers have to take account of the practical realities of our geography and climate when they plan services.

“It is really important that women who have used or who plan to use maternity services in the Fraserburgh area make their views known. It is only possible to build services around women’s needs if women speak out about the kind of provision they want to see.”

Whiteford Given Assurance On Mintlaw Post Office

2011-12-08T20:37:00.011Z

ROYAL MAIL BOSSES SAY NORMAL HOURS TO RESUME FROM WEDNESDAY

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has received an assurance from Royal Mail bosses that Mintlaw Post Office will resume normal opening hours with effect from next Wednesday.

The MP contacted Royal Mail last month after the Post Office branch was closed pending an investigation into alleged irregularities. The move left the largest village in Buchan without a Post Office service for several days and Royal Mail bosses arranged for temporary opening hours to be put in place on three days per week.

Following feedback from the community that this was inadequate to meet the needs of the Mintlaw area, Dr Whiteford continued to push for a resumption of normal service.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“I made further representations to Royal Mail and I am pleased to confirm that normal opening hours will resume at Mintlaw Post Office from next Wednesday, 14 December.

“This is an extremely busy time of year for Post Offices, and I hope the return to normal opening hours will help alleviate the community's concerns about the reduced service.”

Labour Let Tories Off The Hook On Pension Reforms

2011-12-08T17:18:00.000Z

Labour have been condemned for letting the Tories off the hook over punitive public sector pension reforms after the party failed to back an SNP and Plaid Cymru motion which called for the UK Government to reverse unfair changes to public sector pensions.

The debate – the first since the UK Government announced its pension reforms - comes after more than two million public sector workers took part in a day of action last week. The SNP and Plaid Cymru debate had been welcomed by a number of unions.

Speaking after the vote, SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP said:

“Instead of uniting against these punitive reforms, it is incredible that Labour have chosen to let the Tories off the hook and let public sector workers down by sitting on their hands.

“The millions of workers who marched through the streets last week will be aghast that Labour MPs have refused to even walk through the lobbies for them.

“This was the first debate and vote since the UK Government announced its plans, and it should have been a moment when MPs from all parties united against these coalitions cuts.

“Labour are clearly not interested in the welfare of public sector workers. Despite having had thirty six debates to raise this issue, since the UK Government announced their plans, Labour has remained silent.

“It is also clear that these punitive reforms are all about the UK Government's deficit reduction plans, and have nothing to do with securing sustainable pensions. The aggressive and arrogant threat to reduce the Scottish Budget if their reforms are not implemented proves that the Scottish Government has no option outside applying these increases and that the UK Government continues to have the power to meddle and influence issues which are central to the future of Scotland and which should be for the Scottish Government to decide.

“The need for affordable, sustainable and fair public sector pensions is of critical importance to everyone, which is why the short term cash grab by the UK Government is so concerning. Long-term pension reforms must be taken forward with consent and in partnership which is why it was so regrettable that UK Ministers appeared to relish strike action.

“The SNP will continue to will ensure that the voice of ordinary public sector workers is heard in parliament."

Plaid Cymru Work and Pensions spokesperson, Hywel Williams MP, said:

“Last week’s Day of Action saw more than two million people express their concerns about the UK Government’s changes to public sector pensions and I am pleased that Plaid Cymru and the SNP brought those concerns to the House of Commons.

“These proposals mean public sector workers, who make up three in ten of the Welsh workforce, will work longer, pay more and receive less in their pensions.

“Sadly, the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats, who are making these changes, have been let off the hook by the failure of the Labour Party to stand up for public sector workers.

“That was only what we could expect from a party which did not support the Day of Action and have conspicuously failed to show active support for those who will be affected by these changes.

“We offered Labour MPs the opportunity to show their support for public sector workers – and they did not do so. I shall leave it to those workers to decide what that means.

“Plaid Cymru will continue to fight for fair pensions for everybody, including a living state pension and protecting workers.”

MP Meets Mintlaw Club Members Bowled Over By New Solar Panels

2011-12-08T15:55:00.001Z

Local MP Eilidh Whiteford will visit Buchan Indoor Bowling Club, South Street. Mintlaw on Friday 9 December (tomorrow) at 11.30am.

Members approached the MP earlier this year for guidance on what assistance may be available to the non-profit making club to install environmentally-friendly solar panels. Dr Whiteford took the matter up with the Energy Minister who clarified the situation and the club have now installed the new solar panels.

The MP has been invited to visit by club members to thank her for her assistance and to show off their new solar panel system.

Payday Warning Prompts Crisis Loan Rethink

2011-12-07T13:47:00.000Z

As insolvency experts today (Wednesday) warn that millions are likely to turn to high-interest payday loans, a parliamentary question tabled by an SNP MP has revealed that the number of consumer credit licences revoked annually by the regulator has more than doubled over recent years.

SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Eilidh Whiteford MP said stronger regulation was still needed to protect consumers and crack-down on unscrupulous lenders. Dr Whiteford also called for the UK Government to reconsider proposals to cut the availability and level of crisis loans which could drive more people towards high-interest lenders and illegal loan sharks.

Commenting Dr Whiteford said:

“It is clear, both from the insolvency sector warning and the doubling of consumer credit licences being revoked, that strong action is still needed to regulate the consumer credit industry and protect vulnerable individuals.

“This warning comes at a time of general economic uncertainty for many, and at a time of year when many households are struggling to make ends meet with the pressures of Christmas approaching.

“For many these loans are a last resort and, as well as taking action tighten regulation of the industry, the UK Government must also step back from its plans to cut the availability and level of crisis loans. The only winners from this cut by the Coalition Government will be loan sharks and high interest lenders.

“In the wake of this stark warning by the insolvency sector the UK Government must step back from its cruel plan to cut crisis loans.”

Reports of the warning by the insolvency sector can be found here:
http://www.bbc.co.uk/news/uk-16063271
A parliamentary question by Dr Whiteford which reveals that there were 39 consumer credit licenses revoked by the Office of Fair Trading (OFT) during 2010/11, up from 16 revoked in 2008/09, and also up from the 27 licences revoked in 2009/10, can be found here:
http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm111205/text/111205w0005.htm#11120627000583

Calls For United Front In Public Pensions Vote

2011-12-07T11:44:00.000Z

SNP AND PLAID USE OPPOSITION DAY TO FORCE PENSION DEBATE

Challenging MPs ahead of a vote tomorrow (Thursday) on public sector pensions secured by the Scottish National Party and Plaid Cymru, SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Eilidh Whiteford urged MPs, from across parties and across the UK, to show a united front against changes proposed by the UK Government.

The debate comes after more than two million public sector workers took part in a Day of Action last week over the proposals, which will mean that they work longer, pay more in pension contributions but receive a smaller pension when they do finally retire.

Despite having 36 opposition day debates since public sector pension changes were first announced in June 2010 – including a debate on the day of the strikes - Labour have so far failed to put the issue on the agenda in Parliament.

Speaking ahead of the debate, Dr Whiteford said:

“It is clear from the day of action by workers last week that there is real anger over these reforms, yet there has been no debate and no vote at Westminster. Given the strength of public feeling, we must now have that debate and MPs, from across the parties and across the UK, must show a united front against these Coalition cuts.

“Despite having had thirty six debate days since to raise this issue, since the UK Government announced their plans, Labour has been ominously silent. This vote will be an opportunity for all MPs to make their position clear.

“The need for affordable, sustainable and fair public sector pensions is of critical importance to everyone, which is why the short term cash grab by the UK Government is so concerning. Long-term pension reforms must be taken forward with consent and in partnership which is why it was so regrettable that UK Ministers appeared to be relishing the prospect of strike action.

“This will also be an opportunity to debate the UK Government’s threat to cut Scotland’s budget by £100 million next year alone, on top of drastic cuts to Scotland’s budget, if the Scottish Government does not implement the UK Government’s immediate levy on pensions contributions.

“It is crucial that MP’s at last debate this issue which is why the SNP and Plaid Cymru will ensure that the voice of ordinary public sector workers is heard in parliament.”

Plaid Cymru Work and Pensions spokesperson, Hywel Williams MP, said:

“The pension changes are simply unfair. These proposals mean that millions of hard-working public sector employees, including teachers and nurses, will pay more from their salaries each month but receive less money when they retire. Work longer, pay more, get less.

“The UK Government will not discuss pension changes made in 2007-08 which, according to figures from the National Audit Office, show savings of 14% as a result.

“Plaid Cymru have recently uncovered the fact that the UK Government have carried out no re-evaluation of the Teachers’ Pension Scheme since those changes. So how can they claim that the scheme is unaffordable?

“The increase in contributions from salaries is not going to fund future pensions, as the government claims. Rather it is going to fill the hole created by the bankers bailout and by regulatory failure.

“With public sector wages being frozen and 710,000 job losses under new Con-Dem plans, this is a full frontal attack on the public sector, the backbone of our countries.

“It is wholly unacceptable that such major changes have not been properly debated in Parliament.

“The trade unions should consider why Labour have not called for this debate, that it is Plaid Cymru and the SNP who have done so and why Labour’s front bench do a disappearing act whenever strike action is mentioned.”

Local MP And MSP Comment On Fraserburgh Maternity Consultation

2011-12-07T10:42:00.001Z

Local MP Eilidh Whiteford and MSP Stewart Stevenson have commented on the issuing by NHS Grampian of a consultation on the future provision of maternity services at Fraserburgh Hospital.

Mr Stevenson was part of the successful community-led campaign in 2006/07 which fought the withdrawal of maternity services at Fraserburgh Hospital and secured the establishment of the birthing unit.

Commenting, Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford said:

“We need to explore and investigate the issues around why this proposal has been made so soon after the birthing unit was established in 2007.

“To that end, I will be seeking to visit the birthing unit at Fraserburgh Hospital and also meet with senior management in NHS Grampian in early course.”

Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson added:

Stewart Stevenson MSP
at Broadford Hospital
which he visited during
the last campaign

“Back in 2006, when NHS Grampian last came forward with proposals to cease maternity services at Fraserburgh Hospital, the trend was for an increase in the numbers of home births

“Clearly there will be a number of factors at play here and I have no doubt that NHS Grampian would argue, just as they did in 2006, that the number of births taking place at the birthing unit create issues in terms of staff skills.

“Five years ago, we had an exemplary, well-informed campaign led by the community itself and not politicians. Campaigns led by the community are always the best. At that time, I also undertook a fact-finding visit to a birthing unit run by NHS Highland on Skye. There I found a valued local service which the staff were extremely proud of.

“We now need to engage with NHS Grampian once again and, if it is the will of the community, make the case again for maternity provision at Fraserburgh Hospital. To that end, I want to hear from the people of Fraserburgh and surrounding areas with their experiences of the birthing unit and their views on these proposals.”

Pensions Should Be Set By Scottish Parliament Survey Shows

2011-12-06T11:00:00.000Z

Two thirds of people in Scotland believe the Scottish Parliament should be responsible for setting the state pension and back Holyrood taking responsibility for all the decisions affecting Scotland according to the latest report on the Scottish Social Attitudes Survey.

With 65% of people in Scotland calling for decisions on the state pension being taken at Holyrood the SNP’s Work and Pensions spokesperson Eilidh Whiteford MP said there is a clear appetite for the Scottish Parliament to take on responsibility for welfare and benefits across the country.

The support for Holyrood having control over pensions was set out in the latest report on the Scottish Social Attitudes Survey, conducted between June and September this year which also showed independence is now the preferred option for Scotland’s future with 43% favouring the Scottish Parliament making all the decisions for Scotland, against only 21% in favour of the status quo and 29% for “devolution max”.

Dr Whiteford said:

“There is a growing demand amongst people in Scotland for their parliament to be responsible for the key issues that affect their lives.

“Nearly two thirds of people in Scotland want their state pension to be set by a Scottish Parliament that will understand their needs and the value of the pension to them far better than a UK government.

“Last year’s survey showed that 62% of people thought welfare benefits should be determined by Holyrood – and that has now increased again to 65%.

“There is clearly little trust left in the UK Government over pensions. From the miserly rises of the Labour years to the UK Government’s current plans to raid public sector pensions to pay off the deficit too many people have seen their pension mistreated too often.

“Figures show that Scotland, as an independent nation, would be in a better position than the UK to meet pension costs with pensions and benefits taking up a smaller amount of Scottish income, than they do across the UK.

“There is a growing confidence in the Scottish Parliament and an increasing belief that it is Scotland’s Parliament that should make the decisions that affect people’s lives.”

______
The Scottish Social Attitudes Survey interviewed 1,149 people between June and September 2011

Asked who should make key decisions for Scotland about pensions - 65% said the Scottish Parliament and 33% said Westminster
In 2010 respondents were asked Who should make key decisions for Scotland about welfare benefits – 62% said the Scottish Parliament.

Pension payments in Scotland total 15.1% of Scottish revenues, less than the 15.7% for the UK.

SNP Welcome UK Government U-Turn On Mobility Cuts

2011-12-01T13:16:00.002Z

SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP has welcomed news today (Thursday) that the UK Government has abandoned plans to remove the mobility component of Disability Living Allowance for people in residential care.

The UK Government had planned to scrap the payments to those living in residential care but today admitted that there was insufficient evidence to support their arguments that there was a funding overlap and that claimants were getting money from two sources for the same purpose.

Parliamentary questions by Dr Whiteford – who secured cross-party support for a motion calling for the government to reverse the cut - revealed that the cut would have impacted on approximately 60,000 people living in residential care, including an estimated 8,000 users of the Motability Car Scheme.

Dr Whiteford said:

“Threatening to remove the mobility component for people in residential care was one of the most callous cuts the Tories proposed, and this u-turn is a great victory for campaigners and common sense.

“We are talking about a lifeline payment which gives people, including children at residential special schools, some independence.

“Removing this allowance would effectively have meant that some people could no longer get out and about and would have been confined to their residential care home.

“The fact remains that the Tories have targeted the most vulnerable in society with their cuts, and I hope we will be able to force further u-turns by UK Ministers – for example, on the planned cuts to the availability of crisis loans.”

MP To Switch On Cruden Bay Christmas Lights

2011-11-27T08:00:00.002Z

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford switched on the Cruden Bay Christmas Lights on Sunday 27 November.

The Band of the Salvation Army commenced proceedings at 3.00pm at the village Christmas Tree on Main Street, Cruden Bay with the lights switched on thereafter.

Whiteford Speaks Out In Fisheries Debate

2011-11-15T14:29:00.005Z

Speaking during a fisheries debate in the House of Commons today (Tuesday) SNP Westminster Fisheries spokesperson Eilidh Whiteford urged the UK Government to learn from the abject failure of the CFP and prioritise an approach that puts regional management at its heart.

Dr Whiteford also highlighted the success of the Scottish Government’s catch quote scheme which could help deliver a discard-free fishery.

Dr Whiteford, the MP for Banff and Buchan, said:

“This is a crucial time for Scottish fishing and the UK Government must learn from the abject failure of the CFP in its current form. It has failed the fishing industry, it has failed as a conservation strategy, and it’s failed our coastal communities.

“The real challenges we face now have to be seen in the context of a Common Fisheries Policy that for over 30 years has been systematically damaging our marine ecosystems, eroding the livelihoods of fishermen, and is inconsistently applied across the European Union.

“The CFP must be replaced with a workable model of fisheries management, and there is a growing consensus in the industry, among fishing leaders, scientists, and environmental NGOs that a Regionalised approach offers a better way forward than the one-size-fits-nobody approach we have at the moment.

“We need to get clarity from the European Commission on how they intend to deliver a regionalised approach. Until we get effective involvement in fisheries management from key stakeholders, the people on whom the decisions impact, we will not be able to move forward in any way. At this stage w e are still some distance from a policy that is environmentally, economically and socially sustainable for our communities.

“Scotland has been at the forefront of pushing alternatives to the culture of discards imposed by Europe's flawed fisheries policy that forces fishermen to dump good quality fish back overboard, dead into the sea. This is a waste of a valuable food and economic resource. Nobody gains from discards.

“The Scottish Government has set a priority for the upcoming EU negotiations to extend the successful catch quota scheme. I urge the UK Government to work with Scottish Ministers as well as international partners, including the Norwegians and the Commission, to drive that measure forward so that we can actually expand the catch quota system and make its success something that we can build on right across the European Union.”

Labour 'Brass Neck' Over Peterhead CCS Project

2011-11-14T13:29:00.001Z

Banff and Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has hit out at the hypocrisy of calls by the Shadow Energy and Climate Change Secretary for the UK Government to "crack on" with a carbon capture and storage project at Peterhead - the SNP MP pointed out that the last Labour Government, in which Caroline Flint was a Minister, had sabotaged the original project in 2007 by refusing to provide certainty over the policy framework required or financial support.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

"Caroline Flint has a lot of brass neck and not much irony given that it was the last Labour Government who sabotaged the original project in 2007 by refusing to provide certainty over the policy framework required or financial support.

"That project would have been the world's first pre-combustion carbon capture plant, but because of Labour's Downing Street dithering the project went to Abu Dhabi instead.

"We now need to ensure that the last government's mistakes are not repeated and the project goes ahead on track.

"Scottish and Southern Energy are to be commended for their continuing commitment to carbon capture and this project has huge environmental potential, and must be embraced by the government.

"This project will put Peterhead at the cutting-edge of carbon capture technology. The UK Government must now recognise the very strong case which exists for this project going ahead and the investment it will bring to Peterhead.

"The Scottish Government is doing everything it can to make Scotland the clean, green powerhouse of Europe - but the UK government has a record of holding Scotland back from achieving our full green energy potential in all areas.

"Instead of Westminster's bungling, the Scottish Parliament needs to gain responsibility for all energy issues in Scotland."

Pensions & Welfare More Affordable In Independent Scotland

2011-11-13T00:01:00.004Z

Figures from GERS (Government Expenditure & Revenue in Scotland) show how an independent Scotland is better placed to fund pensions and welfare compared to the UK.

The analysis of the figures from GERS show that the size of Scotland’s social/welfare protection expenditure and state pension bill as a share of government revenue (with revenue being the money Scotland raises in tax for the very purpose of paying for public services) shows that in Scotland between 2005 and 2010 Scotland’s pension expenditure was 15.1% of Scottish revenues, less than the 15.7% for the UK.

And in terms of social/welfare protection expenditure it was 41.9% of Scottish revenues, less than the 43.2% for the UK.

These figures contrast with attempts by Michael Moore this week to compare Scottish welfare and pension spending solely with oil revenues – an exercise that if it applied to the UK as whole would result in a trillion pound deficit for the Whitehall Treasury.

Commenting SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP said:

“This week’s trillion pound blunder by Michael Moore to try and scaremonger pensioners only looks all the more ridiculous when compared to the whole picture.

“On the basis of taxes raised in Scotland, and once our welfare protection expenditure and state pensions are paid, Scotland actually has a relative surplus compared to the UK.

“In short Scotland is more able to afford our pension and welfare bill than the UK.

“Taking all spending in Scotland into account and all of our revenues, Scotland has run a current budget surplus in four of the five years to 2009/10 – while the UK was in current budget deficit in each of these years, and hasn’t run a current budget surplus since 2001/02.

“Michael Moore’s parroting of Tory arguments to talk Scotland down and use spurious comparisons to scaremonger pensioners shows how little confidence they have in their case.”

Calculation:

SOCIAL/WELFARE PROTECTION
UK social/welfare protection expenditure as % of total UK government revenues		Scottish social/welfare protection expenditure as % of total Scottish revenues
2005-10		2005-10
Social Spend	£961,195	Social Spend	£88,124
UK Govt. Revenue	£2,601,007	Scottish Revenue	£252,781
Social Spend as Revenue %	36.95%	Social Spend as Revenue %	34.90%

Scotland’s Social/welfare protection advantage in revenues
Revenue Advantage	2.09%

PENSIONS
UK Pensions as % of total government revenues		Pensions in Scotland as % of total Scottish revenues
2005-10		2005-10
Pensions Spend	£353,472	Pensions Spend	£31,459
UK Govt. Revenue	£2,601,007	Scottish Revenue	£252,781
Pensions as % of Revenue	13.59%	Pensions as % of Revenue	12.45%

Scotland’s state pension advantage in revenues
Revenue Advantage	1.14%

Source: Figures for social spend and pensions from the official Government Expenditure and Revenue Scotland (GERS) report for 2009/10 [figures are millions]

Local MP To Lay Wreath At Cruden Remembrance Ceremony

2011-11-11T23:02:00.002Z

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford will lay a wreath at Cruden Parish War Memorial, Cruden Parish Church, Cruden Bay on Sunday 13 November following the Service of Remembrance which commences at 10.30am.

Peterhead MP Welcomes SSE-Shell Carbon Capture Agreement

2011-11-09T13:02:00.002Z

Banff and Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford today (Wednesday) hailed the announcement of a new joint development agreement between Scottish and Southern Energy (SSE) and Shell UK Limited for the development of the Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) project at SSE's gas-fired power station in Peterhead.

Questioning the Secretary of State for Scotland in parliament, Dr Whiteford demanded assurances that the UK Government will commit to the project, highlighting the failure of the previous Labour Government to support earlier an earlier project – and the more recent decision of the current Coalition Government to torpedo development of a Carbon Capture and Storage plant at Longannet.

Dr Whiteford said:

“This is great news for Peterhead and excellent news for Scotland’s renewable sector given we have some of Europe’s largest carbon storage reserves in our North Sea oil and gas fields combined with the expertise on how to access them.

“SSE are to be commended for their continuing commitment to carbon capture at Peterhead, and this project has huge environmental potential of international significance, and must be embraced by the government. This has been a key campaign for the SNP, and Alex Salmond, as First Minister and as the former local MP, battled to bring the development of carbon capture to the area.

“This project would put Peterhead at the cutting-edge of carbon capture technology. The UK Government must now recognise the very strong case which exists for this project going ahead and the investment it will bring to Peterhead.

“People have not forgotten that Peterhead could already have been three years ahead of where it is now had the last Labour Government not decided to pull back from its support for the previous carbon capture project.”

Whiteford Comments On Argus Care Homes

2011-11-09T11:45:00.000Z

Commenting on the news that Argus Care Homes, who operate Glenesk House Care Home in Turriff, have gone into administration, local MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford said:

“I can appreciate that with this news, people with relatives and loved ones in Glenesk House in Turriff will be very concerned.

“I have been in contact with the administrators, PKF, regarding the situation and they stressed that there is absolutely no risk of closure of Glenesk House. I have been reassured that operators are in place to ensure that the care homes will be running as usual, while a new owner for the business is sought.

“I am also pleased to hear that the administrators are positive about finding a buyer for the business. I stand ready to assist should any help be required in bringing the situation to a positive resolution and have offered that assistance to the administrators this morning.”

Whiteford Congratulates Turriff Heritage Society On Funding Award

2011-11-09T10:12:00.004Z

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford has congratulated Turriff Heritage Society after it secured funding from the Royal Bank of Scotland.

The ‘RBS Community Force’ is a new initiative which sees the Bank working with local communities to support the people, projects and charities making a real difference. Turriff Heritage Society won a public vote conducted via the Community Force website and has scooped £6275.

Welcoming the news, Eilidh Whiteford said:

“This is absolutely wonderful news for Turriff Heritage Society and I am delighted for the hard-working volunteers.

“I know that the Heritage Society have put in an immense amount of work since they received news that their funding was to be cut, and I was pleased to be able to support their event at Delgatie Castle recently.

“This funding award is richly-deserved and I congratulate the Society for their efforts.”

Whiteford Speaks Up For Fishing Industry In Commons European Committee

2011-11-09T00:12:00.000Z

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford has urged the UK Fisheries Minister Richard Benyon to “push CFP negotiations as far as possible”. Dr Whiteford was speaking during a debate on fisheries in the House of Commons European Committee.

Speaking in the Committee, the SNP MP said:

“When discussing CFP reform, it is important that we put it in the context of the past 10 years. The communities that I represent have watched their fleets halve over that time, and I have seen the devastation that that has brought to some of those coastal towns and villages. One lesson that we have learned from the past is that the previous reforms caused a great deal of pain in those communities as boats were decommissioned. Unfortunately, our fishermen are now being asked to take more of the same. I appreciate the Minister saying that none of us would want to start from where we are now, which is right, but at the same time the people who have already made sacrifices are now being asked to make more. My concern with the proposals that I have seen so far is that they go nowhere near far enough to address the underlying social, economic and environmental problems that the CFP has caused in our fishing waters.

“The people whom I represent have done more than any other fishermen anywhere in the EU to make their fishery sustainable. They have taken huge steps towards innovative measures such as trying to use selective gears and all kinds of new approaches. They have developed many ways forward, so that 80% of fish landed now comes from managed stocks. They are also working towards Marine Conservation Society certification in so many of the key stocks. That is huge progress. They have made more progress on discards than anywhere else in Europe, and it is important that they see a reward for the steps that they have taken and for how far they have come.

“The challenges that, in particular, the whitefish and prawn fleets face are symptomatic of the failures that we have seen. We need to remember, that there is a knock-on effect and that not only fishermen, but whole communities suffer. In my constituency, the processing sector, which provides at least as many jobs—if not more—than those that are directly involved in fishing, also suffers.

“The catch quota system has already been alluded to by the Minister as something that has been very successful, and I must agree, but it is a small pilot scheme. In Scotland, only some 26 vessels are involved. The problem is that there are simply not enough quotas around for that to be expanded. However, that seems to be a more economically and environmentally viable way forward than some of the other proposals on the table. I urge the Minister to work with the Norwegians and the Commission to push that measure forward so that we can actually expand the catch quota system and make its success something that we can build on right across the European Union.

“I am still not convinced that internationally transferable quotas offer as viable a way forward as the claims would suggest, and that comes from the fact that, in Scotland, a lot of the fleet is locally owned. I know that that is not the case in other parts of the UK, but I am concerned that if we open the door to quotas being traded internationally, we will lose the knock-on economic benefits of having a locally owned and managed fisheries sector. I want to see the legal evidence that any safeguards that we put in place around ITQs will not be open to legal challenge. We need the detail of that before we can really see it as a way forward.

“Finally, as I remarked earlier, regionalisation is key. Unless we get effective regionalisation we will not be able to move this forward in any way. We are still quite a long way from a policy that is environmentally, economically and socially sustainable for our communities. I urge the Minister to push the CFP negotiations as far as possible because we still need to go an awful lot further.”

Whiteford Concern At Sheffield Hallam Welfare Warning

2011-11-08T11:15:00.006Z

The withdrawal of incapacity benefit must be based on medical need the SNP said today (Tuesday) as a report by Sheffield Hallam University warned that the UK Government’s welfare reforms would leave “countless” households facing “untold distress” as the entitlement to incapacity benefits is cut by 115,000 by 2014.

SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP said:

“Withdrawal of incapacity benefit must be based on individual medical need not some arbitrary target set by Ministers in Whitehall.

“It is difficult to believe that 115,000 people could all have been wrongly been assessed in their current entitlement, particularly when there are already serious questions over the reassessment process with people undergoing chemotherapy, in some cases terminally ill people, being ordered to attend back-to-work interviews.

“Return-to-work initiatives can benefit both the economy and the individual, but people should only return to the workplace when they are genuinely able and when correct support measures are available.

“The SNP back a move to a benefit regime that uses resources efficiently but provides support where it is needed. Genuinely sick or disabled individuals must not become an easy target for Conservative and Liberal cuts.”

MP & Councillors Hail Leviathan As 'Absolutely Fantastic'

2011-11-04T23:27:00.001Z

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford and Peterhead South & Cruden SNP councillors Stephen Smith and Stuart Pratt have hailed Friday night’s street performance in Peterhead of ‘’Leviathan’ as ‘absolutely fantastic’.

Around 600 young people took part in the colourful parade which was watched by a crowd of several thousand people as it wound its way around Peterhead town centre. Dr Whiteford and Councillors Smith and Pratt were among the crowd to see the parade start off from Peterhead Community Centre.

Commenting, Eilidh Whiteford MP said:

“This was a wonderful spectacle to witness. A huge amount of work had obviously been put in by the young people to their costumes, the floats and the music.

“The efforts of the performers were clearly appreciated by those who turned out to see the parade.”

Councillor Stephen Smith commented:

“This was a very colourful display and also highly reflective of Peterhead’s whaling heritage.

“I’m delighted for the young people involved that they received such strong support from the townspeople of the Peterhead for their efforts.”

Councillor Stuart Pratt added:

“The turnout tonight was an absolutely fantastic achievement and all those involved in making this event such a success deserve our congratulations.”

Whiteford Presents TESCo 'Computers For Schools'

2011-11-03T22:18:00.000Z

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford will present several Banffshire Schools and playgroups with computer equipment donated by Tesco as part of the Computers for Schools scheme.

Dr Whiteford will be met by Store Manager Andy Tennant at the Tesco Store, Carmelite Street, Banff on Friday 4 November (tomorrow) at 11.00am.

Schools and playgroups being presented with equipment are:

Banff Primary
Macduff primary
Banff Academy
Hopscotch Playgroup

One teacher and two pupils from each will also be in attendance.

Contribution Concerns Over UK Pension Proposals

2011-11-02T16:51:00.001Z

Commenting on the UK Government’s revised proposals for public sector pensions, SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Eilidh Whiteford MP urged the Treasury to re-consider its policy on increasing contribution rates in the manner proposed at a time when members of the public face real financial pressures.

Dr Whiteford said:

“The Treasury must think again over its policy on increasing contribution rates at a time when people face real financial pressures.

“My concern is that we will see workers withdraw from pension plans because they cannot afford the increase in contributions, and in the longer term leave many wondering if they can even afford retirement.

“Most recipients of pensions are receiving only a few thousand pounds per year, not the sort of gold-plated pensions highlighted in the media, and it is women who will be hardest hit by these changes.

“The issue of pension reform requires consent to be built but, with the UK Government making clear they will slash the Scottish Budget if the Scottish Government does not implement the short term increase in pension contributions, that consent is not being achieved.

“Public sector workers, are rightly concerned about the impact of changes to their pensions by the UK Government – and the UK Government must think again.”

Local MP In Talks Over MIntlaw Post Office Service

2011-11-02T15:17:00.000Z

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has received an assurance from Post Office bosses that a temporary service will be provided to customers in Mintlaw tomorrow (Thursday).

The MP contacted Royal Mail after the Post Office branch was closed pending an investigation into alleged irregularities. The move has left the largest village in Buchan without a Post Office for several days now.

Speaking after her discussions with Royal Mail, Dr Whiteford said:

“I have spoken to Royal Mail this morning to ask what steps they are taking to provide a temporary Post Office service while they continue their investigations.

“Royal Mail have given me an assurance that temporary arrangements have been put in place that will allow the Mintlaw Post Office to open on Thursday morning between 9.00am and 1.00pm.

“Should their investigations continue into next week, arrangements have also been made for a morning service on Monday, Tuesday and Thursday next week. However, Royal Mail hope to resume normal service as soon as possible.

“I welcome the steps taken by Royal Mail to minimise disruption to customers while their investigations continue, and hope the temporary arrangements will help mitigate the inconvenience to members of the community. Mintlaw is an important crossroads in the Buchan area and I hope a full, normal service will be restored as soon as possible.”

Local MP Helps Out At Barnardo's For 'Make A Difference Day'

2011-10-30T20:57:00.003Z

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford joined the staff at the Barnardo’s shop in Peterhead’s Erroll Street for an hour on Friday as part of Barnardo’s ‘Make a Difference Day 2011’.

Shop Manager Irene Pearson was on hand to show the MP the ropes, as Eilidh joined volunteers Sophie Grant and Carina Ventura on the shop floor as part of Barnardo’s campaign to attract more volunteers.

Shop manager Irene Pearson remarked:

“We are very grateful to Dr Whiteford for taking time out of her busy schedule to help our campaign.

“There are children in Scotland struggling to cope with their everyday lives, and people can help by becoming a volunteer. If you are interested in helping, then please call in and speak to the manager of any Barnardo’s shop, or go online at www.barnardos.org/volunteering.

“No experience is necessary for most volunteer roles – just enthusiasm and a warm friendly nature - Barnardo’s will supply all the support and training you will need.”

Talking of her visit, Eilidh said:

Dr. Eilidh Whiteford MP,
volunteers Carina Ventura and Sophie Grant,
and shop manager Irene Pearson

“I was delighted to have the privilege of volunteering at Barnardo’s shop in Peterhead, and I enjoyed chatting to the volunteers and customers.

“Volunteering is a wonderful way of giving something back to the community and is also an opportunity for people to learn new skills or acquire work experience. I would encourage people in Aberdeenshire to consider volunteering at their local Barnardo’s shop, particularly over the busy Christmas period when they could really do with extra help - even for just a few hours a week."

Whiteford Speaks Out In Support Of OXFAM Grow Campaign

2011-10-30T20:52:00.000Z

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has given her backing to Oxfam Scotland’s ‘Grow’ Campaign.

The campaign is aimed at promoting sustainable food production, addressing inequalities which plague the food production system from farm to fork, and improving the protection of those in poverty from food price crises.

Speaking at an Oxfam meeting held at the SNP Conference, Eilidh Whiteford MP said:

(l to r) Fiona Hyslop MSP, Cabinet Secretary for External Affairs;
Naile Salima, Programme Development Officer, Oxfam Malawi:
Judith Robertson, Head of Oxfam Scotland; & Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP

“I’m delighted to lend my backing to the Oxfam ‘Grow’ campaign.

“I’m particularly pleased to be joined at this meeting by the Scottish Government’s Culture and External Affairs Secretary, Fiona Hyslop, who has restated her support for the Scotland-Malawi Development Programme, which assists over 40 projects in Malawi.

“Today, in the 21st century, nearly one billion people worldwide don’t have enough to eat. Not because there isn’t enough food to go round –there is: the planet is more than capable of supporting all the people on it with sufficient food. Rather, it is the system of food production which is broken and needs to be fixed.

“In Scotland, Oxfam will be focussing on four major issues to help fix the broken food system. These are Climate Change, which affects crop yields as temperatures rise; Food Price Spikes, because when you spend 80% of your income on food as some poor families do, spikes in food prices are especially destructive; Land Grabs, which force poor farmers off the land; and Small-Scale Farming, because there is enormous potential in small-scale farming in developing countries.”

We Need To Stand Up To Bully-Boy Culture

2011-10-30T00:01:00.000+01:00

as contributed to Scotland on Sunday

THERE has been a nasty, belittling and misogynistic undercurrent to the events of the past two weeks. In so many ways it would have been easier to ignore the comments directed toward me by Ian Davidson MP during a meeting of the Scottish Affairs Committee.

Instead, I spoke out about the use of threatening language by the chairman of a parliamentary committee and have been vilified as a result. Like other women who complain, my motives have been questioned and some have tried to smear me. But the bully-boy culture of Westminster has to end. We must stand up to it.

I am not alone in my concerns. Over the past week Labour MPs both front- and back-bench sidled up to me to express their support for my position. Most talked under their breath.

As an aside to the issue of bullying and misogynist language in parliament, the fear of speaking publicly amongst Labour MPs and the failure of its leadership to take proper action against Ian Davidson – a man who is being allowed to stand for a leadership role himself – speaks volumes about a party that has lost its way.

By contrast, non-party political organisations and individuals have rallied in a more public way. They point out the unacceptable nature of Mr Davidson’s threat to give me “a doing” during a meeting of the Scottish Affairs Select Committee, which he chairs.

Organisations and individuals interested in good parliamentary representation highlight the ease with which misogyny can thrive within a political institutional architecture where only one in five MPs is female. The gender imbalances are compounded by a relentlessly adversarial format of debate that limits opportunities for meaningful discussion.

My experience is just one consequence of the chronic under-representation of women in public life. The former MP Tess Kingham described it as “yah-boo nonsense, point scoring and silly games”. Until we blow the final whistle on these silly games, large numbers of our citizens will remain alienated from the political process. On the evidence of this week, Westminster has a long way to go.

Ian Davidson’s denials finally unravelled in a radio interview on Thursday when he admitted having made the remarks. But his admission was followed by an extraordinary attempt to pass the buck on to other committee members. Like a playground bully caught in the act, he resorted to the tired old defence – “it wisnae me, it wis them too”.

Well, let me put it firmly on the record. At the committee meeting Ian Davidson said I would get a doing if I stepped out of line. In his radio interview, he altered this to claim that all he said was that I “got a doing” at the Scottish Affairs Committee.

The change of tense is transformational. It is no longer a threat but a boastful observation. It suggests collective culpability. Unfortunately for Mr Davidson, that’s not what happened.

Cathy Jamieson and Fiona O’Donnell did not give me a “doing”. Nor Mike Freer MP. Simon Reevell made his points in his usual urbane way. And the idea of Alan Reid, the mild mannered Liberal Democrat MP for Argyll & Bute, giving anyone a doing is frankly laughable.

The only person who went too far – way too far – was Ian Davidson. To try to pin responsibility for his own behaviour on others, while painting himself as the referee who called time in the ring, does a huge disservice to fellow committee members who kept the language of their criticisms within the prevailing conventions of parliamentary norms.

One female committee member was concerned enough to pass a note to the chairman suggesting his remark was unacceptable. If the past tense was used, and I “got a doing”, why on earth would she have felt the need to advise the chair that his comments might be misinterpreted in a sexual way?

Why would she have felt the need to mention it again – according to Mr Davidson – when leaving the meeting early? And why would Mr Davidson have felt the need to clarify his remarks to me afterwards? He approached me to point out they were not sexual in nature. I said I found the threat of physical violence just as offensive.

The MP who wrote the note might be able to shed some light on this matter – but there has been silence on that front so far. The inference has been that the “doing” I am alleged to have received was punishment for my “misbehaviour”, as if I were some deviant six-year-old sent to stand on the naughty step.

It does not matter that all I had done was disagree with the committee. In fact what inspired Mr Davidson’s remark is utterly irrelevant. There is no action, no misbehaviour that justifies the threat or act of “a doing”. We hear too often of women being told they were “asking for it” in justification for intimidation or violence. I never expected to hear that from an MP in Parliament.

But this is not simply an issue of aggression towards woman; it’s about a culture of intimidation and bullying affecting men and women that seems to flourish with impunity in the Westminster world.

Moving Scotland forward has to involve moving our political discourse beyond its present tribal partisanship. We need to learn to accept our differences and how to distinguish dissent from treachery. We need to foster political institutions and ways of working that put dignity and genuine equality at their heart. And, as I learned over the past two weeks, we need to move beyond fear of those who try to use aggression and humiliation to silence and intimidate us, and instead call those people to account for their actions.

Local MP Helps Out At Barnardo's For 'Make A Difference Day'

2011-10-27T13:58:00.000+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford will be helping out at a local charity shop as part of ‘Make a Difference Day 2011’.

Dr Whiteford will be attending the Barnardo’s shop, 12 Erroll Street, Peterhead on Friday 28 October 2011 (tomorrow) at 11.00am. Acting Shop Manager Joyce Summers will be on hand to show the MP the ropes.

Speaking in advance of the visit, Eilidh said:

“I am delighted to have the privilege of volunteering at Barnardo’s shop in Peterhead and am very much looking forward to helping out with various tasks.

“Volunteering is a wonderful way of giving something back to the community and is also an opportunity for people to learn new skills. I would very much like to encourage people in Aberdeenshire to consider volunteering at their local Barnardo’s shop, particularly over the busy Christmas period when they could really do with extra help, even if its just a few hours a week. All you have to do is pop into your local shop and find out more."

Whiteford Comments on Davidson 'Non-Apology'

2011-10-26T05:23:00.006+01:00

QUESTION NOW FOR LABOUR OVER ACTION

Commenting on the purported 'apology' by the chairman of the Scottish Affairs Committee over inappropriate comments to Dr Eilidh Whiteford, the Banff and Buchan MP said Mr Davidson was implicitly acknowledging that he had made inappropriate remarks, but failed to recognise the inherently threatening nature of his comments.

Dr Whiteford said:

“This was an empty apology from Ian Davidson who clearly, still, does not recognise why his comments during and after last week's meeting were inherently threatening and unacceptable.

“We know now that at least one other member of the committee heard his remarks, and understand that another member passed him a note regarding his comments. I accept that some members of the committee did not hear the remarks, given that they were, as Mr McGovern seems to acknowledge, made in a casual, throwaway manner. For me, this only served to reinforce their menacing nature, a menace that was compounded by Mr Davidson's subsequent comments immediately following the meeting.

“There is no context in or out of Parliament where such comments are acceptable, and I am surprised that anyone would try to minimise, brush off or try to justify the remarks made by Mr Davidson.

“I am not prepared to be threatened and intimidated, and until Mr Davidson takes responsibility for his behaviour I regret that I will not be returning to the committee.”

SNP Westminster leader Angus Robertson welcomed the publication of a letter, endorsed by thirteen academics and equality organisations, backing Dr Whiteford’s stance.

Mr Robertson said:

“Ian Davidson’s behaviour was inappropriate in any circumstances, but it is especially unfitting from the chairman of a parliamentary committee.

“One of the ugliest aspects around this has been the way people around Mr Davidson have immediately sought to attack Eilidh Whiteford for having the courage to speak out.

“In contrast, it is encouraging that organisations and individuals outwith parliament have been swift to condemn Mr Davidson’s remarks and, given his own reluctance to take responsibility for his behaviour, the question is now for the Labour party over what action it will take.”

Note:

The text of a letter signed by a number of academics and organisations – and posted on the Scottish Womens Budget Group FaceBook Page (http://www.facebook.com/budgetgroup) - can be found below

Dr. Eilidh Whiteford MP for Banff and Buchan has withdrawn from membership of a Westminster Select Committee over the threatening and sexist remarks of the Committee Chair, Ian Davidson MP.

The remarks from Mr. Davidson were exposed by Dr. Whiteford and witnessed by other MPs and Committee officials. Mr Davidson’s alleged threat to give Dr. Whiteford “a doing”, and his subsequent – and bewildering - clarification that his remark was “not intended as a sexual threat” underscore the extent of persistent sexism rooted in political and parliamentary culture.

According to the newly launched “Counting Women In” campaign, men outnumber women 4:1 at Westminster. There are only 5 women in the Coalition Cabinet. The Equality and Human Rights Commission has repeatedly highlighted the slow pace of change. Women are not only under-represented in elected politics, this incident shows they are also under-valued and disrespected.

The allegations from Dr. Whiteford go well beyond party politics and our reaction and condemnation is not party-aligned. This incident is the latest evidence of the dominance of a sexist and antiquated political culture that underlies our political and economic institutions. So long as sexism is left unchallenged, and ‘casual’ references to violence are left unchecked and unsanctioned, women will continue to be held at arms’ length from the political process.

Dr. Whiteford has made clear she has spoken out about the incident on the basis that it is unacceptable behaviour in any circumstance, and in recognition of the many women who experience intimidation and threats of violence. It is in that spirit that we support Dr. Whiteford’s stance.

Prof. Ailsa McKay, Glasgow Caledonian University
Angela O’Hagan, Convenor, Scottish Women’s Budget Group
Dr. Fiona Mackay, University of Edinburgh
Prof. Liz Bondi, University of Edinburgh,
Dr. Marsha Scott, Engender
Jenny Kemp, Co-ordinator, Zero Tolerance
Anna Bird, Acting Chief Executive, The Fawcett Society
Anne Meikle
Susanne Ross, Scottish Women’s Budget Group
Morag Gillespie, Scottish Women’s Budget Group
Bhabani Nayak, Glasgow Caledonian University
Emily Thomson, Glasgow Caledonian University
Andy Aitchison, University of Edinburgh

Chairman Must Resign Over Threatening Behaviour

2011-10-25T17:00:00.000+01:00

Banff and Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford has this evening withdrawn from proceedings of the Scottish Affairs Select Committee over inappropriate and unacceptable conduct by the committee chairman.

During a meeting of the Scottish Affairs Select Committee on Wednesday 19 October, comments of an unacceptable and inappropriate nature were made by the committee chairman, Ian Davidson MP, to Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP.

After the meeting had concluded Mr Davidson approached Dr Whiteford and clarified to her that his earlier remarks about "getting a doing” were not intended to be taken as a sexual threat. He also indicated that another Member of the committee had passed a note to him relating to the appropriateness of his comments.

Dr Whiteford has withdrawn her membership of the committee until Mr Davidson resigns as chairman.

Commenting on her decision, Dr Whiteford said:

“Threats and intimidation of this nature are unacceptable under any circumstances. It is never appropriate to threaten to give a woman 'a doing'.

“If people in my position are not prepared to stand up against aggressive and threatening behaviour, then people who face this kind of conduct in their homes and workplaces will continue to think the perpetrators can get away with it.

“I do not believe this behaviour is compatible with the position of Chair of a Select Committee, and therefore I have withdrawn from the Committee while Mr Davidson remains in his role as chair.”

Boundary Commission Proposals Reunite Buchan

2011-10-18T23:05:00.000+01:00

Proposals by the Boundary Commission for Scotland released last week for the redrawing of Westminster constituency boundaries see the historic area of Buchan as the land north of the Ythan reunited.

The number of Westminster MPs in Scotland is being reduced from 59 to 52 leading to new boundaries. The boundaries last changed in 2005 when the number of Scottish MPs reduced from 72 to 59, and in 1997 as part of a general review.

The proposals for the North-east see Banff & Buchan retained and expanded to take in the Ellon & District council ward and most of Mid-Formartine, except Balmedie and Oldmeldrum. The remainder of the current Gordon Constituency merges with West Aberdeenshire to form a new constituency.

Commenting, Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford said:

“It is important that the communities involved in the proposed boundary changes have their say. To that end, I would encourage community groups and individuals to make their comments to the Boundary Commission’s consultation which runs until 4 January 2012.”

Comments on the Boundary Commission’s proposals can be made by e-mail to comments@scottishboundaries.gov.uk or via the webform at www.bcomm-scotland.gov.uk

MP Calls For Review Of Child Trust Fund Scheme

2011-10-16T22:20:00.000+01:00

SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson and local MP Eilidh Whiteford has called for the UK Government to review the operation of Child Trust Funds after it emerged almost a quarter of a billion pounds has been lost from the value of funds in the last year.

A report has revealed that, in Scotland, the loss stands at about £24million affecting 500,000 children.

Dr Whiteford has called for the UK Government to review the advice that it provides to parents on the scheme and investigate reforming the scheme to allow the fund to be transferred into Junior ISA or savings schemes.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“With some parents seeing a third wiped off the value of their children's funds over the last year this has been a painful reminder of that old small-print warning that the value of investments can fall as well as rise.

“The UK government should now consider updating the advice that it gives to parents on how these funds are managed and investigate reforming the scheme to allow the fund to be transferred into alternative, lower risk, schemes such as Junior ISA or savings schemes.”

Whiteford Presses DEFRA On Mackerel Dispute

2011-10-16T22:11:00.001+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has raised the ongoing fisheries dispute with Iceland and the Faroe Islands with the UK Fisheries Minister on the floor of the House of Commons.

Speaking during Question Time in the House of Commons, Eilidh Whiteford MP asked the Minister:

“Alongside CFP reform, the ongoing mackerel dispute with Iceland and the Faroe islands continues to cause great concern, not just for pelagic fishermen but for the white fish fleet and fish processors. Will the Minister update the House on the progress of negotiations with Iceland and tell us, in the event of a deal, what recompense will be made available to Scottish fishermen? Might it possibly take the form of additional quota?”

Responding, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State at DEFRA Richard Benyon MP said:

“I cannot give the hon. Lady that precise information at the moment. I can tell her that there has been a slight improvement in the relationship with the Icelanders, and I hope that we can build on that. I am still pessimistic about our discussions with the Faroese, but I assure her that I will keep her closely involved, because we are talking about our most valuable fishery. It is sustainable, and we face a severe risk of losing marine stewardship accreditation for the stock, which would cause great harm to her constituents and our economy.”

Commenting afterwards, Dr Whiteford said:

“2500 jobs, many of them in the North-east, are dependant on the mackerel sector. I have been in close contact with industry representatives and will continue to press the case for them at the highest level in Westminster, while I know my colleague Richard Lochhead will do likewise from a Scottish Government perspective because this issue has serious knock-on effects for parts of the white fish fleet and processors.

“The UK Government, as the EU Member State, must redouble its efforts to ensure a just and fair outcome for our fishing industry in the face of outrageous and irresponsible behaviour by the Faroese.”

PQ Reveals CSA IT System Doubled In Cost

2011-10-16T00:01:00.000+01:00

‘WASTEFUL WESTMINSTER’ SHOULD LEARN FROM SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT EFFICIENCY

A parliamentary question obtained by SNP MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford has revealed that the cost of a computer case management system purchased by the UK Government for the Child Support Agency has more than doubled from its original budget of £94 million to more than £225 million.

The PQ also revealed that the cost of subsequent improvements to the CS2 system, used by the CSA, have totalled more than £117 million extra on top of the development costs since 2006.

The cost of the CSA system follows revelations over recent weeks that the cost of the Libra IT scheme used by the Department of Justice had trebled from its original budget of £146 million to more than £444 million; while another IT system, purchased for the Passport Agency, had quadrupled to £365 million.

Commenting, SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP, whose question uncovered the figures, said:

“Given the catalogue of IT cost overruns, we would all be better off if Westminster got a calculator rather than another computer. It seems the Westminster government is incapable of delivering big projects on time or on budget.

“At a time when household budgets are under real pressure, revelations over how wasteful Westminster has been with taxpayers’ money are an absolute scandal.

“Serious questions must be asked about how the cost of the CSA computer system was able to more than double – and the first of those questions should be raised with the former Labour Ministers who signed the contracts.

“When it comes to efficiency, Westminster needs to take a leaf out of the Scottish Government’s book. The SNP Government has pursued a vigorous programme of efficiency and public sector reform that is delivering results and driving improvements. In the first two years of the programme, it has exceeded its targets by £300 million and £400 million. Last year, £2.276 billion of efficiency savings were made - £673 million above the target - through new ways of using resources, collaborating across public services or improving procurement.

“That money is being reinvested in the public sector to deliver frontline services or lever in new efficiencies. This is a level of delivery that wasteful Westminster should learn from.”

Note:

1. Details of Dr Whiteford’s question on the CSA IT system can be found at the link below.

http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm110719/text/110719w0003.htm#1107204001531

Dr Whiteford: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions what the original estimate, at current prices, was of the cost to the public purse of the computer system supplied by EDS Systems for the Child Support Agency's payment system; what the final cost, at current prices, was at the time of completion; and whether additional costs have been incurred since completion. [65626]

Maria Miller: The Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission is responsible for the child maintenance system. I have asked the child maintenance commissioner to write to the hon. Member with the information requested and I have seen the response.

Letter from Noel Shanahan:

In reply to your recent Parliamentary Question about the Child Support Agency, the Secretary of State promised a substantive reply from the Child Maintenance Commissioner as the Child Support Agency is now the responsibility of the Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission.

You asked the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions, what the original estimate, at current prices, was of the cost to the public purse of the computer system supplied by EDS Systems for the Child Support Agency's payment system; what the final cost, at current prices, was at the time of completion; and whether additional costs have been incurred since completion. [65626]

The question has been assumed to relate to the CS2 child maintenance system, which was built by EDS and went live in 2003. “The cost to the public purse of the computer system” has been assumed to mean the cost of developing the system, rather than the cost of developing and running the system.

The original outline estimate given by EDS (now Hewlett Packard) in 1999 for the cost of the build of the new CS2 system was £94m. This estimate is disclosed in the National Audit Office's (NAO) June 2006 report “Implementation of the child support reforms”. At today's prices, based on the Retail Price Index at December 1999 and June 2011, the £94m translates to £132.2m.

The actual cost of developing the CS2 system was £225m. At today's prices, based on the RPI at April 2003, when the system went live, and June 2011, the £225m translates to £292.1m.

During the Operational Improvement Plan (OIP), which ran between April 2006 and April 2009, a further £107m was invested in development to the CS2 system. This amount was disclosed in the NAO's December 2009 report on the performance of the Child Maintenance and Enforcement Commission. At today's prices, based on the RPI for April 2009, when the OIP closed, and June 2011, the £107m translates to £119m.

Following the closure of the OIP, two further remedial releases were made on the CS2 system. The cost of release 17, in 2009, was £4.2m. Release 18, in 2010, cost £5.4m. At today's prices, based on the RPI for December 2009 and December 2010 respectively and the RPI for June 2011, these translate to a total cost of £10.1 m.

2. Details of Dr Whiteford’s previous question to the Home Office can be found at the link below:

http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm110719/text/110719w0001.htm#110719112001686

3. Last month the Scottish Government announced that savings of 2.2 billion pounds would be reinvested in Scotland's public services, and that Scotland's public sector efficiency targets have been smashed for the third year in a row.

The latest figures show that the public sector delivered 2,276 million pounds efficiency savings in 2010-11, exceeding the target of 1,603 million pounds by 673 million pounds. That equates to 8.5 per cent of the 2007-08 baseline, considerably above the target for six per cent savings for the year. Efficiency savings are reinvested in improving public services.

The Efficiency Outturn report 2010-11 is available at:

http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2011/09/Outturn2010-11

Whiteford Welcomes Pensions Age Rise Delay

2011-10-13T12:48:00.001+01:00

SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson, Eilidh Whiteford MP, has welcomed confirmation that plans to raise the state pension age to 66 in 2020 will be delayed to address concerns that thousands of women will be unfairly disadvantaged.

Dr Whiteford said the decision was a victory for women who had campaigned against the UK government’s plans.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford:

“This is a welcome retreat by the UK Government and a victory for the thousands of women who campaigned against these unfair changes.

“These changes would have wrecked the retirements of thousands of women, already in their late 50s, and denied them the time to make alternative pension arrangements.

“We must now see the full detail of the UK Government’s transitional proposals to be certain that they go far enough and will help all the women affected.”

MP Officially Re-Opens Buchan Street Hall

2011-10-13T09:44:00.002+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford officially re-opened the refurbished Buchan Street Hall in Macduff at the weekend.

The Buchan Street hall was one of the contenders on ITV’s ‘People’s Millions’ and won a popular vote to secure lottery funding to upgrade the facility.

Speaking after Saturday’s official opening, Eilidh said:

Eilidh Whiteford MP with
Michael McGillivray & May Thom
of Macduff Old Folk’s Association

“The Buchan Street Hall is a great community facility which I know is well-regarded locally by the various hall user groups. Growing up in Macduff in the 1970s, I used to attend dancing classes there.

“The hall is looking absolutely fantastic after the upgrade, which the Committee project-managed by themselves. There is a wonderful new kitchen and a new meeting room which really adds to the facilities available for hall users.

“Community facilities such as the Buchan Street Hall are extremely important and I know that the hall is well-used at the moment. With these new facilities, the hall will continue to be a focal point for local groups and community events in Macduff.”

Whiteford Comments On Scottish Affairs Committee 'Sideshow'

2011-10-12T16:28:00.000+01:00

SNP MP and Member of the Scottish Affairs Committee, Dr Eilidh Whiteford, today (Wednesday) described the announcement of twin inquiries by the Committee into the Scottish Government’s plan to hold a referendum on Scottish independence as a ‘sideshow’.

Dr Whiteford also said she was bemused that the committee’s terms of reference appear to have been lifted from the Secretary of State for Scotland’s party conference speech, and expressed concern at the short timescale for interested parties to answer the Committee’s calls for evidence.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“These inquiries are a sideshow from the real issues affecting Scotland. It is obvious from the terms of reference that this will be a partisan and pejorative inquiry and that those driving it have already decided what its conclusions will be.

“There are already questions over the chairman’s judgement after his ridiculous neo-fascist remarks during a debate on the Scotland Bill. This just shows how Labour is obsessing about the SNP when the committee should be investigating the impact of Tory cuts.

“A referendum in Scotland is clearly a matter for the Scottish Parliament and Government – and the referendum that is happening is the one the SNP pledged in the election campaign, which we said will be held in the second half of this parliament. That is the platform the SNP stood on in May, and which the people of Scotland gave us a resounding mandate to deliver.

"The days of Westminster Committees or Tory and Labour Governments telling the people of Scotland what to do are over.

“Considering the many pressing issues in the areas where the Scottish Affairs Committee could make a useful contribution, it is disappointing they are instead proceeding with a partisan inquiry into something which has nothing to do with them.

“David Cameron and Nick Clegg have both conceded this is a matter for the people of Scotland and the Scottish Parliament but it would seem their backbenchers now want to hijack this issue by political grand standing.”

Commenting on the terms of reference for the second inquiry, which include six questions listed by Scotland Secretary Michael Moore in his conference speech, Dr. Whiteford said:

“It’s absolutely extraordinary that the agenda for the Scottish Affairs Select Committee seems to have been lifted from a LibDem conference speech by Michael Moore! It seems Ian Davidson has been rummaging through Michael Moore’s waste paper basket looking for inspiration?”

IFS Report 'A Wake Up Call to Westminster'

2011-10-11T13:43:00.001+01:00

SUCCESSIVE UK GOVERNMENT’S ‘SHAMEFUL RECORD’

SNP Work and Pensions Spokesperson Eilidh Whiteford today (Tuesday) described the UK Government’s record on tackling child poverty as a tragedy as the IFS and Joseph Rowntree Foundation published figures showing that 17% of children in the UK were living in absolute poverty in 2009 – 10 with that figure set to rise over the next two years.

According to the report’s authors, the UK Government is unlikely to meet its target of reducing child poverty by 2020.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“These figures must be a wake-up call for the UK Government over the impact that their savage cuts are having on the most vulnerable.

“Children wherever they are born deserve the best possible start in life. While the Scottish Government is focussed on tackling the root causes of poverty such as education, health, employment, skills and housing, kids across the country are still being let down by Westminster.

“The record of successive UK Government’s on tackling child poverty is shameful. After thirteen years, Labour singularly failed to close the gap between rich and poor created during the Thatcher years.

“The aggressive deficit reduction policies of the Conservatives and Liberal Democrats are hitting family incomes, making it harder to make ends meet.

“Meanwhile, Labour MPs who failed to tackle the problem whilst in government and sat on their hands through a vital vote in opposition. In February 2011, MPs had the chance to vote down the UK Government’s plans to link benefits to the consumer price index instead of the retail price index.

“This would have given hard pressed families some breathing room but Labour abstained with only one Scottish MP brave enough to break party ranks and join the SNP in voting against.”

More details of the IFS Study can be read here: http://www.ifs.org.uk/pr/poverty_pr_1011.pdf

Katy Clark was the only Scottish MP to vote against the move to link benefits and pensions to CPI instead of RPI: http://www.publicwhip.org.uk/division.php?date=2011-02-17&number=212

MP Welcomes APD Devolution Calls From Leading NE Figures

2011-10-10T20:23:00.001+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford has welcomed the publication today of an open letter by a group of leading North-east business and public sector figures to the Chancellor calling for devolution of Air Passenger Duty (APD) to the Scottish Parliament.

The letter is endorsed by Aberdeen and Grampian Chamber of Commerce, the LibDem Leader of Aberdeenshire Council, the Leader of Aberdeen City Council, North-east Scotland SCDI, NESTRANS, BAA Aberdeen Airport, Aberdeen City & Shire Economic Futures and Eastern Airways.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“Support is growing for devolution of APD and, given the changes proposed for Northern Ireland, the Treasury must recognise its refusal to devolve control to Scotland is unsustainable.

“There is overwhelming evidence for the devolution of APD with all four of Scotland’s largest airports backing the call and Transport Scotland saying ‘there is no good reason why passengers in Scotland should have to continue to travel in such numbers through other UK airports or should not benefit from levels of connectivity enjoyed in other parts of the UK’.

“Devolution of APD would enable us to incentivise airlines to provide new direct international routes, providing Scotland's passengers with enhanced options as they go about their business more freely and more effectively. It would also provide a substantial boost to the Scottish economy and create jobs.

“It is time for the UK Government to stop being hypocritical and allow Scotland to have control over flight taxes, just like Northern Ireland.”

HM Treasury’s Northern Ireland announcement: http://www.hm-treasury.gov.uk/press_107_11.htm

SNP Comment On Rennie Speech

2011-10-08T17:34:00.002+01:00

'CONFUSED AND CONTRADICTORY'

Commenting on Willie Rennie’s speech to the Scottish Lib Dems' autumn conference in Dunfermline, SNP MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford said:

“The Lib Dems' continuing obsession with the SNP is plain for all to see. By becoming frontmen for the Tory Government in London, their position on the constitution has crumbled into a mess of confusion and contradiction.

"They say they want Home Rule but fail to support the extra powers the SNP propose for the Scotland Bill. Their position sounds as hollow as their pledges in 2010 to oppose increased tuition fees, higher VAT and accelerated Tory cuts.

"Scaremongering against the financial and operational benefits of a single police force was at the heart of the LibDems' disastrous election campaign in May - and they were rejected by the people of every single constituency in mainland Scotland: rural and urban, Highland and lowland, north, south, east and west.

"They also promised 3,000 police officers in their 2010 election manifesto but since they have become Tory frontmen there are over 4,000 less police officers in England & Wales. Another pledge as hollow as their stance on Home Rule."

Eildih Whiteford Engagements In Banff & Macduff

2011-10-07T00:18:00.001+01:00

PUBLIC HALL AND SHOP TO BE OFFICIALLY OPENED BY LOCAL MP

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford will carry out engagements in Banff and Macduff on Saturday 8 October.

At 2.00pm, Eilidh will officially re-open the refurbished Macduff Old Folk’s Association Community Hall in Buchan Street, Macduff. The Buchan Street hall was one of the contenders on ITV’s ‘People’s Millions’ and won a popular vote to secure lottery funding to upgrade the facility.

Commenting ahead of the opening, Eilidh said:

“The Buchan Street Hall is a great community facility which I know is well-regarded locally by the various hall user groups.

“I’m looking forward to hearing from the committee members on Saturday about the upgrade and their future plans for the hall.”

At 4.00pm, Eilidh will perform the official opening of the The New Arc shop at 21 Low Street, Banff.

The New Arc is one of Scotland’s largest independent animal rescue centres based just outside Ellon and is currently home to over 400 animals and birds both domestic and wild. The centre is run entirely by volunteers. The charity pays no rent, no expenses, no utilities, fuel, travel or phone costs ensuring that all proceeds raised are spent 100% on the animals in their care.

Local Bereavement Care Group Cashes In On MP's Opinions

2011-10-04T22:13:00.003+01:00

Deveron Branch of Cruse Bereavement Care Scotland has benefited from a cash donation from Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford.

The SNP MP was recently asked to take part in a research study by a well-known polling organisation which offered a £75 fee. Eilidh donated this to Cruse following an invitation to assist the local group with their recent supermarket bag-pack which raised over £700, thereby adding another 10% to the sum raised when she visited the volunteers at the Turriff branch of Tesco at the end of July.

All the funds raised stay locally, and will be used to buy new books for their library, and finance the ongoing training required to ensure volunteer counsellors are equipped to a high standard. The Deveron Branch of Cruse covers Fraserburgh, Memsie, New Pitsligo, Huntly, Oldmeldrum, Banff, Macduff and everywhere else within that area, and the counsellors are kept busy with many referrals coming from GP’s and other health professionals.

Dr Whiteford commented:

“I was delighted to support the Deveron Branch of Cruse Bereavement Care Scotland.

“I am very much aware of the excellent job Cruse counsellors do in providing a listening ear, advice and support for those suffering after the loss of a loved one. Their support has proved invaluable for many individuals and helped them through a traumatic and distressing time in their lives.

“I am therefore pleased to be able to add to the sum raised by the Cruse volunteers at their recent bag-pack.”

MP Visits Woodhead Bros. Turriff Plant

2011-09-28T06:53:00.000+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has visited Morrisons Supermarkets’ subsidiary, Woodhead Brothers of Turriff, at the invitation of General Manager, Michael Tough. The SNP MP was given a presentation on the history of the facility, before making a tour of the premises to meet with the staff and observe the factory processes in full production.

Commenting on her visit, Dr Whiteford said:

Fr (l-r) : Michael Tough, Dr. Eilidh Whiteford MP, Lesley Dalgarno

Back: Ricardo Da Rocha, Euan Irvine, Gordon Taylor,
Malcolm Baillie, Lenny Grant and Roy Stuart

“I was very pleased to visit Woodhead Brothers in Turriff and see the facilities for myself. Apart from its status as a major employer in Turriff, Woodhead Brothers also fulfils a vital service to the agricultural industry across Scotland, and makes a valuable contribution to the economy.

“I was very impressed by the high standards of efficiency and hygiene throughout the production line, and the pride and interest which the staff and management have in both their produce and their work.

“I was particularly interested by the quality and care which goes in to the manufacturing of ‘own brand’ produce for Morrison’s Supermarkets. While ‘own brand’ goods in many supermarkets are marketed as economy lines, it is clear that both Morrisons and Woodhead Brothers regard theirs as a premium product - manufactured to the highest standards.”

The MP’s tour of the factory ended with a round-the-table discussion with the management team on the future of the food industry in the North-east of Scotland.

General Manager for Woodhead Brothers Michael Tough added:

“It was a pleasure to show Eilidh around our site in Turriff and demonstrate the high standards we set ourselves as well as telling her about the history of the site and the company.

“Her visit allowed us to show her one of the things that makes us different as a supermarket – controlling the sites where our food is produced and working closely with farmers.

“We look forward to developing a relationship with Eilidh and working closely with her in the future.”

Passport Question Reveals Computer Costs Tripled

2011-09-23T13:33:00.000+01:00

LABOUR HAUNTED BY SPENDING DISASTERS

‘WASTEFUL WESTMINSTER’ SHOULD LEARN FROM SCOTTISH GOVERNMENT EFFICIENCY

Just days after UK Ministers revealed they were to axe Labour’s disastrous £12 billion NHS computer scheme, a parliamentary question obtained by the SNP has found that the cost of another IT system, purchased for the Passport Agency, has more than tripled to £365 million.

The question tabled by Banff and Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford revealed that the original Siemens contract had been estimated at between £80 and £100 million over a ten year period, however, the final cost totalled £365 million.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“At a time when household budgets are under real pressure, revelations over how wasteful Westminster has been with taxpayers’ money are an absolute scandal.

“Serious questions must be asked about how the cost of the Passport Agency computer system was able to more than treble – and the first of those questions should be raised with the former Ministers who signed the contracts.

“As Labour meet for their conference it is incredible that, as the people responsible for pouring this money down the drain, they now try and convince us that they have a credible plan for the economy. People will not be fooled.

“This week alone we have learnt that hospitals in England could close as a result of Labour’s crippling PFI legacy, that a £12 billion NHS computer scheme has had to be scrapped and now that another IT projects costs have trebled.

“Westminster needs to take a leaf out of the Scottish Government’s book on efficiency. The SNP Government has pursued a vigorous programme of efficiency and public sector reform that is delivering results and driving improvements. In the first two years of the programme, it has exceeded its targets by 300 million pounds and 400 million pounds. Last year, 2.276 billion pounds of efficiency savings were made - 673 million pounds above the target - through new ways of using resources, collaborating across public services or improving procurement.

“That money is being reinvested in the public sector to deliver frontline services or lever in new efficiencies. This is an impressive level of delivery that Westminster should learn from.”

Dr Whiteford’s question to the Home Office:

Dr Whiteford: To ask the Secretary of State for the Home Department what the original estimate, at current prices, was for the cost to the public purse of the Siemens IT system for the Passport Agency; what the final cost, at current prices, was at the time of completion; and whether additional costs have been incurred since completion. [65627]

Damian Green: At the time of contract award, the anticipated contract value was between £80 to £100 million over a 10-year period. The contract duration extended to 11 years at a total cost of approximately £365 million. The increase in costs over the term of the Siemens contract can be attributed to numerous factors including additional demand for passports, enhancements of the IT infrastructure
and business processes to accommodate changes in policy, response to changes in security threats and customer service improvements.

http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm110719/text/110719w0001.htm#110719112001686

Anna Ritchie Performers Impress Local MP

2011-09-22T23:24:00.002+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford attended the launch of the CD produced by the pupils of Anna Ritchie School in Peterhead last night.

The MP was invited by the school to a concert in the school hall where pupils performed songs from the CD, entitled “True Colours”.

Commenting after the performance, Eilidh said:

“The pupils at Anna Ritchie really gave a great performance and impressed the large audience of parents, relatives and friends.

“When I visited the school back in June I was able to see the children rehearsing so I knew then that this was going to be something really special and they didn’t disappoint.

“I congratulate the pupils, staff and Headteacher Ishbel Cruickshank on producing such an amazing piece of work.”

The Anna Ritchie School was established in 1963 for the education of children with learning difficulties.

MP Visits Broch Heritage Centre Open Day

2011-09-20T09:00:00.002+01:00

Commenting on her visit to Fraserburgh Heritage Centre Open Day, Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford said:

“It was a great pleasure to visit Fraserburgh Heritage Centre and its volunteers to share in their special day. It is one of my very favourite visitor attractions, and the range of demonstrations, displays, and performances which ran throughout the afternoon made it an occasion to remember.

“The range of exhibits illustrates the history and heritage of the Broch, from the town’s maritime history to the stunning creations of Bill Gibb - and records the contributions which have been made to the modern world by the eminent sons and daughters of Fraserburgh.

“But what makes Fraserburgh Heritage Centre a truly outstanding venue is its many ‘hands on’ interactive displays. This is not a museum which says ‘Do Not Touch,’ but rather ‘Please Touch’. I hope that those who were unable to join the many people who attended the Open Day will take the opportunity to pay a visit to the Heritage Centre and see it for themselves.

“At a time when the Heritage Centre and neighbouring lighthouse museum are working hard to secure new sources of funding, it’s more important than ever that local people show their support for these invaluable community assets.”

Whiteford Announces Details Of Surgery Tour

2011-09-18T23:54:00.001+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford will be embarking on her second surgery tour next week. The SNP MP is aiming to cover communities stretching from Fisherford in the far south-west to Inverallochy in the north-east and 50 other communities in between.

The local MP has been busy preparing for the tour and is looking forward to getting out and about into some of the smaller communities which she represents.

Looking ahead to the marathon tour, Eilidh commented:

"I'm keen to get around as many communities in Banff & Buchan as possible during the Parliamentary recess and this is an excellent way to do it.

"My MSP colleague Stewart Stevenson has been doing this for 11 years and I’m to using his example to ensure that as many communities as possible have a visit from their Member of Parliament during the five days which it will take to cover the constituency from end to end.

"There's no appointment necessary unlike the 'static' surgeries which I hold and constituents are welcome to raise issues with me, discuss aspects of policy, or just simply drop by for a chat. I'm looking forward to meeting as many people as possible during the tour."

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford will be available for consultation in her Mobile Office at the following locations:

Monday 26 September

New Deer 9.50am – 10.10am Hall car park
Methlick 10.30am – 10.50am Main Road car park
Woodhead 11.10am – 11.25am adj. Notice Board
Fyvie 11.35am – 11.55am car park opp. Co-op
Rothienorman 12.20pm – 12.45pm Hall car park
Fisherford 2.00pm – 2.15pm Fjord Inn car park
Auchterless 2.35pm – 2.50pm adj. Hall
Cuminestown 3.15pm – 3.35pm opp. Shop
Garmond 3.45pm – 4.00pm Main Street
New Byth 4.10pm – 4.25pm The Square

Tuesday 27 September

Gardenstown 11.00am – 11.15am adj. Petrol Station
Macduff 11.30am – 12.00pm Knowes Hotel car park
King Edward 1.20pm – 1.30pm lay-by at Kirk
Fisherie 1.40pm – 1.50pm Craigwall Cottages
Crudie 2.00pm – 2.10pm lay-by
New Aberdour 2.30pm – 2.45pm car park
Rosehearty 3.00pm – 3.20pm The Square
Sandhaven 3.30pm – 3.45pm St Magnus Road opp. park
Tyrie 4.00pm – 4.10pm adj. old Post Office

Wednesday 28 September

Easterfield 10.15am – 10.25am adj. School
Aberchirder 10.45am – 11.10am The Square
Cornhill 11.25am – 11.45am Car park
Fordyce 12.00pm – 12.15pm adj. Castle
Sandend 12.30pm – 12.45pm adj. Phone Box
Portsoy 2.00pm – 2.25pm Church Street
Boyndie 2.40pm – 2.50pm opp. Boyndie Centre
Whitehills 3.00pm – 3.20pm Seafield Street
Inverboyndie 3.30pm – 3.40pm adj. Bridge
Alvah 3.55pm – 4.05pm adj. Linhead Hall
Forglen 4.20pm – 4.30pm Bogton Row

Friday 30 September

New Pitsligo 10.00am – 10.25am The Square
Strichen 10.40am – 11.05am North Street
Memsie 11.20am – 11.35am by BT exchange
Rathen 11.45am – 12.00pm by Public Hall
Lonmay 12.10pm – 12.25pm adj. Ban Car Hotel
New Leeds 1.45pm – 1.55pm Manse Street
Fetterangus 2.10pm – 2.25pm Hall car park
Old Deer 2.40pm – 2.55pm opp. old Post Office
Stuartfield 3.05pm – 3.20pm The Square
Auchnagatt 3.35pm – 3.50pm Hall car park
Maud 4.05pm - 4.25pm Station car park

Monday 3 October

Longside 10.15am – 10.30am Main St. car park
Mintlaw 10.40am – 11.05am Newlands Road
Hatton 11.30am – 11.45am Hall car park
Cruden Bay 12.00pm – 12.20pm Main Street
Longhaven 12.30pm – 12.45pm Hall car park
Boddam 12.50pm – 1.05pm Russell Street
Rora 2.35pm – 2.45pm Hall car park
St Fergus 2.55pm – 3.10pm opp. Shop
Crimond 3.25pm – 3.45pm Kirk car Park
St Combs 3.55pm – 4.15pm Hall car park
Inverallochy 4.25pm – 4.45pm adj. Post Office

Local MP 'Wears It Pink' To Fund Cure For Breast Cancer

2011-09-14T21:12:00.000+01:00

Banff & Buchan SNP MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford is joining forces with Breast Cancer Campaign to raise awareness of its biggest fundraising event, wear it pink day.

On Friday 28 October 2011 supporters in schools, colleges and businesses throughout the country are encouraged to don an item of pink in support of Campaign and each donate £2 to fund innovative world-class breast cancer research.

Last year hundreds of thousands of people took part in wear it pink to help improve survival rates for the one in eight women who experience breast cancer during their lifetime.

Commenting, Eilidh Whiteford MP said:

“Every year in the UK, around 48,000 new cases of breast cancer are diagnosed in women. Although it is rare, men can also suffer from breast cancer, with around 340 men diagnosed each year. I know people who have lost friends and family members to the disease and I would like to encourage everyone in Banff & Buchan and throughout the country to support wear it pink on October 28, to raise valuable funds for breast cancer research.”

To take part in the UK’s original and best pink day visit www.wearitpink.co.uk and register to receive your free fundraising pack now. wear it pink is supported by Vanish, which has committed to raising an incredible £250,000 for the charity this year.

SNP Office Moves To New Premises In Peterhead

2011-09-13T17:00:00.001+01:00

After nearly quarter of a century, the SNP Constituency Office which has served as a base for the area’s Parliamentarians is moving home.

The office, based in Maiden Street, has moved to more modern, serviced accommodation at Peterhead’s Burnside Business Centre, just off South Road. The move has been welcomed by staff and Parliamentarians as it will mean a more professional environment for dealing with constituency casework and meeting with constituents.

Commenting, Banffshire & Buchan Coast MSP Stewart Stevenson said:

“I’m delighted we have secured new premises at the Enterprise North-east Burnside Business Centre.

“Maiden Street has been my base for over ten years and we have steadily been reaching the point where our office accommodation there has become less and less suitable both in terms of workspace and the environment needed to work with modern IT equipment.

“My staff and I look forward to welcoming constituents to our new premises.”

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford said:

“This move will allow Stewart and myself to work together more effectively. We already share some staff and resources and sharing the same building will lead to greater efficiencies.

“In addition, I’m pleased to announce that the public opening hours of both offices will be extended by an extra ten hours per week in order to increase our availability to constituents.

Peterhead South & Cruden councillor and Office Manager Stephen Smith has worked in the Maiden Street office since 1996. Reflecting on the volume of casework dealt with since the office opened in 1987, he said:

“17 Maiden Street has been the Constituency Office since 1987 and during that time thousands of cases and issues have been dealt with here.

“I did a rough estimate recently of the volumes of mail sent out from the office during the last 24 years based on the weekly average and it was staggering, it was over 370,000 with the figure for inward mail not far behind.”

Many of the staff who have worked in Maiden Street have gone on to much greater things. Former Office Manager, Richard Lochhead, is now in his second term as Cabinet Secretary for Rural Affairs and Fisheries in a majority SNP Government. The first Office Manager, Peter Murrell, is now Chief Executive of the SNP.

Minister for Learning & Skills and Western Isles MSP Alasdair Allan had two spells working in Peterhead while newly-elected Regional MSP for Glasgow Humza Yousaf spent a summer working in Maiden Street getting political experience which stood him in good stead for his new role.

Cllr Smith explained:

“The experience gained working in the Peterhead Office meant that we were never short of applications from people who wanted to work for Alex Salmond or Stewart Stevenson or serve an internship.”

He continued:

“The range of issues dealt with in the normal course of a week in Maiden Street was staggering.

“A lot of the issues people seek assistance with are what you would expect, such as housing and benefits. Benefits in particular is a difficult issue at the moment because of the changes being introduced by the Tory Government in London. In that respect, I suppose things haven’t changed a lot since the Constituency Office opened in 1987 as we had a Tory Government then too which seemed intent on punishing the most vulnerable sections of society.

“I always say however that you are can never be sure who is going to phone or come through the door or what issue you will have to deal with next.

“Trying to save factories from closure is not something that most MPs will tackle, probably through fear of being associated with failure. With Alex Salmond however, we found ourselves doing exactly that and, against the odds more often than not, managing to get a result.

“For example, Buchan Meat in Turriff went under just at the time when the public were getting concerned about BSE and the meat industry was facing a crisis. The prospect of saving the factory, let alone persuading anyone to take it over looked remote. But through working with the employees and trades unions, as well as highlighting the plight of the factory in the House of Commons, we ended up with two or three companies bidding to take over Buchan Meat with Kepak ultimately being successful. Today, Buchan Meat continues in Turriff in the shape of Woodhead Bros who supply Morrisons Supermarkets.

“The Simmers of Hatton factory is another good example of how local jobs were saved through tough negotiating with a multinational firm which allowed a local company to step in.

“The Sapphire Campaign, which resulted in the bodies of the four crew members lost at sea being returned to their families for Christian burial is also something that I will never forget. It was very humbling to be a part of that and to help the bereaved families achieve their dearest wish.

“Maiden Street was also the nerve centre of various political campaigns as well, including both of Alex’s leadership elections in 1990 and 2004, and the 2001 by-election which saw Stewart Stevenson elected as local MSP. There’s quite a bit of history been made within that building.

“But we’ve really outgrown the building and it no longer serves our needs. We’re looking forward to working in more modern accommodation at Burnside Business Centre which will allow us to deliver an efficient service to constituents in a better working environment.”

Contact details for Stewart Stevenson MSP and Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP are as follows:

Stewart Stevenson, MSP for Banffshire & Buchan Coast
Unit 8 Burnside Business Centre
Burnside Road
Peterhead AB42 3AW
Tel. 01779 470444
Fax. 01779 822025
E-mail: msp@stewartstevenson.net
Office Hours: Mon-Fri; 9.00am to 5.00pm

Eilidh Whiteford, MP for Banff & Buchan
Unit 7 Burnside Business Centre
Burnside Road
Peterhead AB42 3AW
Tel. 01779 822022
Fax. 01779 822025
E-mail: eilidh.whiteford.mp@parliament.uk
Office Hours: Mon-Fri; 9.00am to 5.00pm

MP & Councillor Officially Re-Open Refurbished Village Hall

2011-09-11T22:36:00.002+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford and Peterhead South & Cruden councillor Stephen Smith officially re-opened Port Erroll Public Hall in Cruden Bay on Saturday.

The popular village facility has undergone a £70,000 refurbishment including new flooring and a bigger kitchen area.

Speaking at the opening of the hall, Eilidh Whiteford MP said:

“The village hall is a real asset in any community and here in Cruden Bay people can be especially proud of their newly-refurbished hall.

“The committee have worked very hard to secure funding and I know that the fundraising will continue. I congratulate those involved in the successful completion of the refurbishment project and I’m sure the hall will continue to be a well-used asset to the community.”

Cllr Stephen Smith added:

“It’s a real transformation and the community can be very proud of their ‘new’ hall.

“The official re-opening was a great occasion with the ladies of the WRI serving afternoon teas, which ensured a good turnout, and a display of photographs of the various stages of the refurbishment work.”

Whiteford Congratulates Peterhead Running Festival Organisers

2011-09-11T22:23:00.001+01:00

Local MP Eilidh Whiteford has congratulated the organisers and sponsors of the Peterhead Running Festival on a spectacularly successful event.

Dr Whiteford, who was tasked with starting the races for the local schools’ entrants, described the day’s events as being a great spectacle for the town.

Speaking after the event at Catto Park, Eilidh said:

“The turnout today for the schools races – which itself attracted over 400 entrants – and the Peterhead Half-Marathon and the Shell 5km Run was just phenomenal. It is a real tribute to the hard work of Stephen Bruce and the team involved with Peterhead JogScotland.

“The event is such a positive thing for Peterhead and the JogScotland team have an infectious enthusiasm for what they are doing which serves to draw more people in and certainly made today’s festival a huge success and a great spectacle for the town.

“I congratulate the organisers and the sponsors who backed this event and hope it goes from strength to strength next year.”

Scotland Needs Additional Levers To Improve Economy

2011-08-31T12:51:00.001+01:00

MOORE DITCHES HIS LIB DEM DEMANDS FOR TORY DESIRES

The SNP said the Liberal Democrats have “lost their way” ahead of a speech by Scotland Secretary Michael Moore in which he is expected to argue against devolution of key economic powers for the Scottish Parliament - including powers previously supported by the LibDems.

The speech contradicts the previous position of the Liberal Democrats in Scotland who called for the powers of the Scottish Parliament to be extended even further than had been initially suggested by the Calman Commission.

Previous Scottish LibDem leaders – Nicol Stephen and Tavish Scott – have spoken in favour of more power for the Scottish Parliament and against the return of powers to Westminster.

Commenting, SNP MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford, a Member of the Scottish Affairs Select Committee, said:

“The Liberal Democrats have totally lost their way. Instead of obsessing about the SNP, Michael Moore should focus on delivering the additional levers Scotland needs to improve the economy.

“Michael Moore’s position is all the more ridiculous given that delivery of these powers was previously supported by the Liberal Democrats in Scotland.

“In evidence to the Calman Commission, outgoing Lib Dem leader Tavish Scott called for the powers of the Scottish Parliament to be extended but now Michael Moore is calling for the opposite.

“Why is Michael Moore talking down the Scottish Government when he should be speaking up for Scotland? And if Michael Moore has forgotten his party’s policy, why isn’t Willie Rennie reminding him?

“The Liberal Democrats have well and truly lost their way and it is worrying they are looking to the Tories for guidance. As senior figure in a federal party, surely Michael Moore should work with the SNP to deliver the progress in the constitution that people want to see – not doing what he is told by the Tories. It’s no wonder that their former voters are deserting in droves and their councillors in squads to the SNP.”

Local MP Takes “Time Out” In Strichen

2011-08-28T21:55:00.004+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford took up an invitation to visit Strichen Town House on Saturday. Members of the public had the opportunity to see inside the historic building and find out about its history and heritage as part of an Open Day.

Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP with
Strichen Community Council secretary Andy Sturdy

Whilst there, the MP took ‘time out’ to climb up to the clock tower with local Community Council secretary Andy Sturdy and see the historic bell tower and the clock mechanism. The wall of the bell tower is covered in the signatures of those who have wound the clock and cared for the timepiece over the past centuries and the MP was given the opportunity to add her name to the wall.

Commenting afterwards, Eilidh said:

“Strichen Town House is clearly a magnificent building with a prominent position in the heart of the village. However, a lot of refurbishment work will be needed to bring it up to standard.

“I was keen to drop into the Open Day to hear some of the ideas which were being put forward by members of the community as to the future of the building. It was clear to me that there is a lot of enthusiasm for developing the Town House into more of a community facility and I’ve offered the organisers any assistance I can provide to help them progress matters.”

MP Welcomes Balanced Decision On Cheques

2011-08-09T11:14:00.004+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford has welcomed a decision by the Payments Council to cancel plans to close the cheque clearing system by 2018.

Concerns had been raised about the proposals by the millions of individuals and groups that still rely on cheques as a principal form of payment.

Locally, the SNP’s Dr Whiteford had received correspondence from various people who were unhappy at the proposals and believed the option to use cheques should be retained.

Alternative payment systems are particularly difficult for people and groups using accounts where more than one signatory is required.

Welcoming the decision, Eilidh said:

“The basic issue with the proposed closure of the cheque clearing system was what would replace it. The Payments Council had already acknowledged that there is an important place for a paper based payment system but there is really no obvious alternative.

“I suspect that the biggest reason for dropping the plan was a recognition of that if the current system ain’t broke, then don’t try to fix it. Introducing a new alternative could have proved complex and costly when cheques are tried and tested.

“It may of course be the case that the system should be reviewed further down the line as people’s banking habits change and the technology underpinning the banking system progresses but the current plans are basically now ended, which will be a relief for those who were concerned by the proposals.”

Whiteford Congratulates Invercairn Gala Organisers

2011-08-09T11:11:00.001+01:00

Local MP Eilidh Whiteford has congratulated the organisers of Invercairn Gala. The SNP MP officially opened proceedings on Saturday afternoon in Inverallochy.

Commenting, Eilidh said:

“Congratulations need to go to the gala organisers for a tremendous effort this year.

“There seemed to be a real buzz about the event and people seemed to be very much enjoying themselves.

“It takes a lot of effort to plan, arrange, organise and manage an event like this and Inverallochy and Cairnbulg are fortunate to have the community spirit and people working very hard to make this a success, which it undoubtedly was.”

Deveron Cruse Fundraiser Bags Over £700

2011-08-05T10:19:00.001+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford has expressed her delight that the supermarket bag-pack fundraiser for the Deveron Branch of Cruse has raised over £700. The MP was invited to lend a hand last Saturday at a Turriff supermarket.

All the counsellors give their time and dedication to Cruse in a voluntary capacity, and twice a year they hold fund raising functions for the Deveron Branch (based in Turriff). This year, one of those events was to seek donations by offering to pack shoppers’ bags at the Turriff Tesco checkouts.

All the funds raised stay locally, and will be used to buy new books for their library, and finance the ongoing training required to keep volunteers up to the high standards required by Cruse Scotland. The Deveron Branch of Cruse covers Fraserburgh, Memsie, New Pitsligo, Huntly, Oldmeldrum, Banff, Macduff and anywhere else within that area, and the counsellors are kept busy with many referrals coming from GP’s and other health professionals.

Dr Whiteford commented:

Turriff's Alan Scott having his bag packed
by Eilidh Whiteford MP
while Rae Gibbs (l) and Jane Pirie (r) look on

“I was delighted to support the Deveron Branch of Cruse Bereavement Care Scotland at their fund-raising bag-pack.

“As an MP, I am very much aware of the excellent job which Cruse counsellors do in providing comfort, sympathy and very practical advice for those suffering the loss of a loved one. Their support has proved invaluable for many individuals and helped them through what, for many, has been the most traumatic and distressing time of their lives.

“I am delighted that local people responded so generously to Cruse’s efforts resulting in the magnificent sum of £722.87 being raised on the day.“

Local MP Attends ‘Garden Village’ Open Day

2011-07-25T21:23:00.001+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford was one of the many visitors to yesterday’s Fordyce Open Village Day.

The now annual event drew visitors from far and wide to admire the gardens which are opened to the public by local householders to raise funds for the Community Association.

Commenting, Eilidh said:

“The organising committee of Fordyce Community Association deserve to be complimented on another successful event.

“Judging by the numbers of people who turned out to visit the gardens and have afternoon tea at the village hall, it seems the event is growing in popularity as word spreads about the beautiful gardens which are made available to the public on the Open Village Day.

“It is a community event in every sense and everyone involved can be very proud of their efforts today.”

MP proclaims Scottish Week Resounding Success

2011-07-23T23:20:00.001+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has proclaimed the 50th Peterhead Scottish Week an outstanding success.

The MP was speaking after joining the huge crowd of people on the town’s links and South Road to watch the Red Arrows perform their aerobatic display above Peterhead Bay last night and the Finale Fireworks Display this evening. Dr Whiteford also helped secure the Red Arrows for the Scottish Week Committee after an initial approach to get them to come to Peterhead was rebuffed.

Commenting, Eilidh said:

“The organising committee of Peterhead Scottish Week deserve tremendous thanks for putting on a great show for the 50th anniversary event.

“I have attended seven of the various events taking place around the town over the course of the week and they all seem to have been extremely well-supported.

“I’m delighted for the organising committee. There has been a real buzz about the town this week and I’m sure everyone is looking forward to the 51st Scottish Week next year.”

MP To Join Cruse Volunteers At Turriff Tesco Bag-Pack

2011-07-23T21:26:00.001+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford will join with volunteers with the Deveron Branch of Cruse Bereavement Care Scotland at a fund-raising bag-pack at the Tesco Supermarket, High Street, Turriff at 10.00am on Saturday 30 July.

All the counsellors give their time and dedication to Cruse in a voluntary capacity, and twice a year they hold fund raising functions for the Deveron Branch (based in Turriff). This year, one of those events will be to seek donations by offering to pack shoppers’ bags at the Turriff Tesco checkouts from 10.00am – 4.00pm.

All the funds raised will stay locally, and will be used to buy new books for their library, and finance the ongoing training required to keep volunteers up to the high standards required by Cruse Scotland. The Deveron Branch of Cruse covers Fraserburgh, Memsie, New Pitsligo, Huntly, Oldmeldrum, Banff, Macduff and anywhere else within that area, and the counsellors are kept busy with many referrals coming from GPs and other health professionals.

Dr Whiteford commented:

“I am delighted to support the Deveron Branch of Cruse Bereavement Care Scotland at their fund-raising bag-pack.

“As an MP, I am very much aware of the excellent job which Cruse counsellors do in providing comfort, sympathy and very practical advice for those suffering the loss of a loved one. Their support has proved invaluable for many individuals and helped them through what, for many, has been the most traumatic and distressing time of their lives.

“I have every confidence that the people of Turriff & District will respond generously to their appeal, and ensure that their bag-packing event will help fund their work throughout the year.”

Contact: Cruse National Helpline 0845-600-2227

Parliamentary Recognition For New Deer School

2011-07-23T21:19:00.002+01:00

A Buchan primary school has received Parliamentary recognition after winning a Scotland wide competition to promote the United Nations' Millennium Development Goals.

Pupils at New Deer School produced a Milennium Development DVD which netted them a £400 prize and winners’ certificate in the EthCo Challenge 2011.

Local MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford, who is the SNP's international development spokesperson, visited the school recently to congratulate the pupils and view their award winning DVD.

Commenting, Eilidh said:

“I very much enjoyed my visit to New Deer School and I was delighted to learn about the efforts of the children in the EthCo Challenge and their success.

“Around 67 million children around the world are missing out on primary education, the majority of them girls, so to see local primary school pupils doing their bit to raise awareness about these inequalities is very heartening. I think these sorts of projects are important in helping us here in Scotland to become good global citizens.

“The pupils are very proud of their award and they, and their teachers, are to be congratulated on their success.”

The wording of the Early Day Motion in the House of Commons reads:

That this House congratulates the pupils of New Deer Primary School and Whitehills Primary School on winning the EthCo Challenge 2011 to promote understanding of the Millennium Development Goals; notes that 67 million children worldwide, a majority of them girls, are missing primary school education; recognises the crucial importance of education in tackling the causes of global poverty and inequality; and calls on the Government to make education central to its international development strategy and improve educational opportunities for girls.

SNP Press Minister Over Fisheries Reforms

2011-07-14T13:39:00.001+01:00

SNP Westminster Fisheries spokesperson Eilidh Whiteford has welcomed proposals for reform of fisheries policy following an Emergency Question in the House of Commons today (Thursday). However, the Banff and Buchan MP warned that Scotland’s “conservation conscious” fleet should not be further penalised for the failures of the CFP.

Speaking after the exchange Dr Whiteford said:

“We absolutely need radical root-and-branch reform of European fisheries policy, and I welcome the fact the European Commission is finally acknowledging that. Given the importance of fishing to Scotland it is crucial that we influence the development of these reforms and that Scotland’s fleet, which has led Europe in pioneering conservation measures is not penalised further by the CFP.

“Meaningful conservation of stocks must be at the heart of a reformed CFP. The ecological and economic madness of the discarding of marketable fish – currently enforced on our fishermen by the CFP – must be addressed. The industry is understandably concerned that a one-step move to a blanket ban on discards could prove counter-productive. Instead, we should be working with fishermen on practical measures that would stop these discarded fish being caught in the first place.

"There is also a huge threat to Scotland lurking within these proposals because, alarmingly, the Commission is advocating an expansion in the international trading of fishing quotas. Selling quota to Europe's highest bidders will erode Scotland's historic rights which in turn could spell doom for our fragile fishing communities. Our fishing rights would end up with faceless overseas-based multinationals, rather than in the hands of future generations of Scots fishermen.

"The Commission's proposal for regionalisation is a welcome start but they don't go far enough. In the complex mixed-fishery of the North Sea it makes sense for Scotland and other nations to have more control over their own fisheries, working in partnership with neighbouring maritime nations.”

“I welcome the Government’s recognition of the seriousness of the challenges facing the Scottish fishing industry, but I am disappointed that Labour’s front bench fisheries spokesperson used his opportunity to comment on the European Commission proposals to attack the SNP, rather than stand up for Scottish fishing interests.”

A transcript of Dr Whiteford’s exchange with the Fisheries Minister is detailed below:

Dr Eilidh Whiteford: Mr Speaker, I very much welcome the Minister’s commitment to radical reform of fisheries management policy in Europe, and I also welcome his commitment to working with the devolved government in that process. However, I hope he’ll also share my concern that on the European Commission’s own Impact Assessment, these proposals could result in a 20% reduction in the Scottish Fishing Fleet, that’s a fleet that has already been halved in the last 10 years. What assurances can the minister give that the most conservation conscious and aware fleet in Europe will not be further punished for the failures of the Common Fisheries Policy?

Richard Benyon: Well, she’s right to raise concerns on behalf of her constituents, I can just give her the assurance that we are working through the details of these proposals, and as she knows, this is a, this is a, a major step, but a first step really in the negotiations which will take another 18 months to secure, and I will be working closely with my colleague Richard Lochhead in Scotland and with other devolved ministers to ensure that we represent all the UK fleets. I can’t say at this stage whether the Impact Assessment would have that effect. I entirely concur with her that the Scottish Fleet has taken great strides to fish more sustainably and has embraced concepts such as catch quotas, and I will continue to work with her and others to make sure that this is understood not just here but abroad as well.

Whiteford In Push For Fair Fuel

2011-07-12T16:30:00.000+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford took part in a cross-party ‘push’ for fairer fuel prices today.

The SNP MP was part of a cross-party group of MPs as they symbolically push a car down Whitehall to Downing Street to show their support for the millions of UK motorists and businesses struggling with high petrol and diesel prices.

The event was arranged with the support of the RAC, Freight Transport Association and the Road Haulage Association.

Speaking from Westminster, Eilidh Whiteford said:

“Despite the 1p cut in fuel duty at the 2011 budget, the price of petrol and diesel at the pumps is still so high that it is causing enormous hardship to millions of families across the country.

“Foreign road freight companies continue to expand their operations in the UK at the expense of British firms, as European rates of fuel duty up to 24p per litre less than in the UK.

“The truth is, high fuel taxes are not working. Figures published by the AA show that the Treasury collected £637 million LESS in fuel taxes than in the same period 3 years ago, despite record levels of fuel tax.

“Today, as a symbol of the hardship caused by these high petrol and diesel taxes, a cross-party group of MPs and activists pushed a car down Whitehall as part of our handing a letter to the Prime Minister.

“This letter asked the Prime Minister to delay or abandon the inflationary rise in fuel duty next year, which will add as much as 4 pence per litre in January 2012. Cutting or freezing fuel duty might actually mean a higher revenue for the Treasury, as more people can afford to fill their tanks. This in turn would help the Government to tackle the deficit faster.

“The letter also asked the Prime Minister to investigate why petrol prices do not fall, when the international Oil price falls.

“A cut or freeze in fuel duty would not only put fuel in the tank of the economy, but it is vital to areas like North-east Scotland where, in many of our communities, a car is a necessity and not a luxury.”

Turriff's Moonlight Tandoori Wins Tiffin Cup Scottish Section

2011-07-12T12:43:00.002+01:00

Turriff’s Moonlight Tandoori restaurant has won the Scottish section of the prestigious Tiffin Cup competition at last week’s Grand Final.

The Grand Final of the Lyca Tiffin Cup 2011 was held in the House of Commons on Wednesday 6 July 2011. The competition is held each year to find the best South Asian restaurant in the UK.

The Tiffin Cup winner is chosen from a list of restaurants that have been nominated by their local MPs. This year 62 restaurants were nominated by local MPs, and the Moonlight Tandoori was nominated by Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP.

Commenting on the success of the Moonlight Tandoori, Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford said:

( l to r) Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP
Speaker of the House of Commons Rt Hon John Bercow MP
& Moonlight Tandoori proprietor Mr Salim Chowdhury

“I am delighted that Moonlight Tandoori has beaten extremely stiff competition in order to become the winners of the Scottish section of this year’s Lyca Tiffin Cup. This is a great tribute not just to the staff and management of Moonlight Tandoori, but also to the constituency of Banff & Buchan as a whole.

“The Tiffin Cup is a prestigious award, which also does very good work in raising funds for the World Vision Charity.

“Mr Chowdhury and his team are to be congratulated on their success and also for putting Turriff on the culinary map. I am sure that we will see an increase in people coming to Turriff to sample the wares of Scotland’s top Tiffin Cup restaurant.”

Whiteford Seeks Support From Supermarkets For Scottish Egg Producers

2011-07-08T11:28:00.005+01:00

SNP MP for Banff & Buchan, Dr Eilidh Whiteford, has called on the UK’s biggest supermarkets to support local egg producers by only stocking eggs and egg products that comply with a new European Council directive, when it comes into force on January 1st 2012.

The Directive sets down minimum standards for improving the welfare of laying hens and prohibits the use of conventional ‘battery’ cages.

Dr Whiteford highlighted that although egg producers in the UK had invested some £400 million in implementing the requirements of the Directive, not all egg producers across the European Union would meet the deadline, raising concerns that ‘illegal’ eggs and egg products would find their way into the UK market.

Speaking today on a visit to local egg producer Robert Hay’s farm at Luncarty, Turriff, Eilidh Whiteford MP said:

Dr Eilidh Whiteford with Robert Hay
(photo by permission of Duncan Brown)

“I am concerned that when the Directive comes into force at the beginning of next year, some 80 million hens across the European Union will continue to be kept in ‘illegal’ conventional cages. This represents millions of inferior eggs and egg products which cannot be allowed to make their way into the UK market.”

“This is a golden opportunity for supermarkets to show their commitment to a sustainable and ethical supply chain, by supporting Scottish egg producers who have complied with the law and invested in improved animal welfare.

I have sought assurances from Tesco, ASDA and Morrison’s that they will only stock eggs and products made with eggs that comply with the new EU Directive. Anything less would undermine the investment made by Scottish farmers in improving animal welfare standards; and consumer confidence in the quality of the products they are buying.”

MP Visits Turriff Egg Producer To Highlight Call To Supermarkets

2011-07-07T17:12:00.003+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford will visit Turriff egg producer Robert Hay on Friday 8 July (tomorrow) at 11.45am to highlight her call to the UK’s biggest supermarkets to support the Scottish egg industry by only stocking eggs and egg products that comply with a new European Council directive, when it comes into force on January 1st 2012.

The Directive sets down minimum standards for improving the welfare of laying hens and prohibits the use of conventional ‘battery’ cages.

Dr Whiteford is highlighting that although egg producers in the UK had invested some £400 million in implementing the requirements of the Directive, not all egg producers across the European Union would meet the deadline, raising concerns that ‘illegal’ eggs and egg products would find their way into the UK market.

Banffshire MP Welcomes South Korean Whisky Trade Boost

2011-07-04T14:00:00.000+01:00

“TRADE PACT IS A BOOST FOR BANFFSHIRE” - WHITEFORD

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has welcomed the signing of a Free Trade Agreement between the EU and South Korea that is expected to see the whisky industry as one of the biggest beneficiaries.

The agreement will reduce taxation on Scotch whisky making its way into the Asian country and removes a range of onerous warehousing and labelling requirements that added cost to the process.

The Agreement should help the already significant South Korean market for whisky grow and expand.

The most popular single malt brands in South Korea are Macallan and Glenfiddich – both significant producers from Banffshire.

Commenting, Eilidh said:

“This agreement between the EU and South Korea is of real significance for the whisky industry with the European Trade Commissioner stating it could even double exports from the current level of over 150 million pounds.

“In addition to the opening up of much bigger sales opportunities the agreement also includes important brand protection measures put in place to prevent forgery and fakes from undermining the brand quality that is of crucial importance to one of Scotland’s most recognisable products.

“This is particularly important to Banffshire as the home of the Scotch whisky industry.”

SNP Comment On Cameron's Welfare Leak

2011-07-03T11:00:00.001+01:00

CAMERON MUST DITCH POLICY

SNP Spokesperson for Work and Pensions, Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP, has today [Sunday] reacted with concern over reports in the Observer newspaper that UK Government welfare reforms risk making 40,000 families homeless.

The newspaper received a leaked letter sent to the Prime Minister from the office of communities secretary Eric Pickles.

Dr Whiteford said:

“For a long time we have warned about the series of cuts contained within the Welfare Reform Bill and the damaging effect it will have on the most vulnerable in Scottish society.

“These revelations today show that the leadership of the Conservative party are well aware of the severe damage their policies will do but choose to ignore.

“David Cameron has no option now but to ditch these absurd plans and instead install real measures which will improve the lives of thousands across the country and improve our society.

“In Scotland we have seen encouraging signs with the SNP Government introducing a range of measures to help people in Scotland through the tough times including a council tax freeze and the phasing out of prescription charges but the Tories are proceeding with a Bill which could set our progress back.”

Turriff's Moonlight Tandoori Wins Place In Tiffin Cup Grand Final

2011-06-26T13:08:00.000+01:00

Turriff’s Moonlight Tandoori restaurant has been chosen to represent Banff & Buchan as one of the twelve finalists in the prestigious Tiffin Cup competition. The Grand Final of the Lyca Tiffin Cup 2011 is to be held in the House of Commons on Wednesday 6th July 2011. The competition is held each year to find the best South Asian restaurant in the UK.

Mr. Choudhury, Proprietor, Moon Light Tandoori
with Eilidh Whiteford MP

The Tiffin Cup winner is chosen from a list of restaurants that have been nominated by their local MPs. This year 62 restaurants were nominated by local MPs, and the Moonlight Tandoori was nominated by Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP.

Keith Vaz MP, Chair of the Tiffin Club said:

“We are delighted that Moonlight Tandoori has beaten extremely stiff competition in order to become one of the finalists in the Lyca Tiffin Cup on 6th July 2011. This is a great tribute not just to the nomination of Moonlight Tandoori, but also to the constituency of Banff & Buchan as a whole. We wish them the very best of luck for the final.”

Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP said:

“I am delighted that Moonlight Tandoori has made it into the final of the Lyca Tiffin Cup 2011. This is such a prestigious award, and I will certainly be there on 6th July to cheer Moonlight Tandoori and I am sure that everybody in Banff & Buchan will be rooting for our restaurant to be crowned the 2011 champion.”

SNP Raise Energy Inflation Concerns In Commons

2011-06-23T13:43:00.000+01:00

SNP MPs tackled the UK Government on soaring energy prices in the House of Commons and called for action to help hard pressed households with escalating energy costs

Figures obtained from the Office of National Statistics show that in four out of the last five years the rise in domestic gas prices has far outstripped the rate of inflation.

Speaking from Westminster, Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford said:

“The Office of National Statistics’ figures confirm the rise in domestic gas prices has far outstripped the rate of inflation, and that is before the latest round of prices hikes.

“Energy prices increases are getting out of hand for households that are already struggling to make ends meet. People just cannot keep absorbing continuous and colossal energy price increases and the UK Government must step in.

“Soaring prices are particularly hard to swallow when Scotland is such an energy rich country, yet faces steep rises in prices.

“We must have a top level review of the domestic and international energy market.

“UK Ministers need to take action to help long suffering domestic customers, as well as businesses which are being crushed under the weight of these additional costs."

Eildih Hosts Fishermen's Mission Reception In Commons

2011-06-12T16:24:00.002+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford hosted a reception for the Royal National Mission to Deep Sea Fishermen in the House of Commons on Thursday.

The event, which was to promote the work of the Mission, was attended by Mission officials from around the UK, MPs with fishing interests and the crew of the Lunar Bow, which had sailed to London to publicise the work of the Mission during Seafarers' Awareness Week.

Speaking from Westminster after the event, Eilidh said:

(1^st left) Stephen Campbell; (3^rd left) Eilidh Whiteford;
(2^nd right) Michael Willox; (1^st right) Mark Buchan

“I was delighted to be able to host a Reception for the Fishermen’s Mission in the Houses of Parliament, and I was especially pleased to welcome Skipper Alex Buchan and the crew of the Lunar Bow. They sailed down from Peterhead to highlight the Mission’s valuable work in our maritime communities, and really helped raise the Mission's profile during national Seafarers Awareness Week.

“Quite a few MPs were able to board the Lunar Bow while it was tied up beside HMS Belfast. I’m sure we were all impressed with this modern, state of the art pelagic vessel. However, we shouldn’t forget that fishing remains an inherently high risk occupation that takes place in what is often a hostile environment.

“The Mission continues to play a vital role in supporting the welfare of fishermen, during and after their time at sea, and holds a very special place in the hearts of our coastal towns and villages.”

Whiteford Questions Defence Secretary

2011-06-08T01:20:00.005+01:00

FOX ADMITS SCOTLAND DISPROPORTIONATELY HIT BY DEFENCE CUTS

The decline in Scotland’s defence footprint must be addressed by the UK Government the SNP said today (Tuesday), after the Defence Secretary admitted, during an evidence session at the Scottish Affairs Select Committee, that Scotland had endured disproportionate cuts over the last decade.

Speaking during the session Defence Secretary Liam Fox admitted:

“I am aware of the fact that, between 2000 and 2010, the total reduction [in service jobs] was 11.6% but the reduction in Scotland was 27.9%, so over the decade there were bigger reductions made in personnel as a proportion than in other parts of the UK.”

Note that UK Parliament recordings use Microsoft technology which may not work on non-Windows devices
Seizing on the admission Scottish Affairs Committee member and Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford said:

“Given the Defence Secretary’s admission that Scotland has already been hit by disproportionate defence cuts the UK Government should commit now, if it has any commitment to maintain a balanced defence footprint across the nations and regions of the UK, to the future of our remaining bases.

“Scotland has already endured mammoth defence cuts over the last decade, and every indication is that this will be compounded by decisions being taken within the Strategic Defence Review.

“Having just 2.1% of senior officers based in Scotland reflects the small number of military bases and uniformed personnel posted here as well as an absence of any permanent senior strategic command or training facilities.

“At present there are only 12,190 UK service-personnel in Scotland. Since the last defence review in 1997 there have been more than 10,500 defence job losses in Scotland and there has been a defence under-spend of at least £5.6 billion. This under-spend constitutes a 36% budget shortfall.

“Given these unacceptable circumstances it is unbelievable that the UK Government is still considering the closure of two thirds of the Air Force bases in Scotland and a 25% reduction in established Service personnel.

“The Ministry of Defence must decide whether it is committed to defence in Scotland.”

Note:

Details of the Defence Secretary’s session with the Scottish Affairs Select Committee can be found here:

http://www.parliamentlive.tv/Main/Player.aspx?meetingId=8518

MP Receives Assurance On St Fergus Post Office Service

2011-06-08T01:12:00.000+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has received an assurance from Post Office senior management that the current level of service will be restored to St Fergus Post Office by the end of June.

The current provider of the outreach service, which is based at the village shop, has pulled out. A reduced service of one morning per week will be provided for the next three weeks by Post Office staff from Oldmeldrum before the service is restored to the current level of 9.00am to 12.00pm on Mondays and Wednesdays. The service will remain hosted in its current location at the village shop.

Commenting, Eilidh Whiteford MP said:

“It is unfortunate that the current provider of the outreach service has pulled out due to personal reasons but I’m pleased that Post Office management have moved quickly to maintain a temporary service over the next three weeks, albeit at a reduced level.

“By the end of this month, the service should be back up to its existing level of two mornings per week.

“I am grateful to the owners of the St Fergus village shop for continuing to provide a base for the outreach service in their premises throughout this time and I’m sure the local community will be relieved that Post Office services will continue to be available in St Fergus.”

Whiteford Visits 'Taste of Grampian'

2011-06-05T23:06:00.001+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has hailed this weekend’s ‘Taste of Grampian’ event as another success in promoting North-east food and drink.

The SNP MP was speaking after visiting the event at the Thainstone Centre on Saturday. Whilst there, she met with local entrepreneur Gregor Mackintosh, owner of Mackintosh of Glendaveny which produces the popular range of cold pressed rapeseed oils.

Mr Mackintosh had just been awarded the prize for Best Large Food Stand at the event.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP with Gregor Mackintosh
and the award for the 2011 Taste of Grampian
Best Large Food Stand

“Gregor is to be congratulated for building up an important local business which continues to go from strength to strength.

“The Mackintosh of Glendaveny range of cold pressed rapeseed oils has won numerous awards, including one here today at Taste of Grampian for Best Large Food Stand. It is fantastic to see a local business doing so well and one where, in Gregor, we have someone who is clearly very enthusiastic about future prospects.”

Turning to the Taste of Grampian event, Dr Whiteford continued:

“Taste of Grampian was extremely well-attended this year and had a real buzz about it. I think events such as this are a key part of promoting local produce, not only to a wider market, but particularly to the North-east. We so often overlook or take for granted some of the tremendous food and drink which are available right here on our doorsteps and not imported from hundreds of miles away after being mass-produced. Taste of Grampian provides a timely reminder that we should all make more of an effort to ‘shop local’.

Local MP Comments On Oil Industry Warning

2011-05-31T08:10:00.001+01:00

LOCAL MP COMMENTS ON OIL INDUSTRY WARNING

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford has commented on the results of Oil & Gas UK's updated Activity Survey which warns that unless mitigating measures are put in place, at least 25 projects which account for over a billion barrels of oil and gas and investment worth £12 billion are unlikely to go ahead and the lives of at least 20 producing fields will be shortened by up to five years.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

"Even the Chancellor must now recognise the immense damage that his ill conceived tax grab will have, and the Treasury must step back before it is too late.

"The Chancellor's decision to hike tax on the North Sea oil and gas sector has already put investment and job creation in this vital industry at risk. There is widespread opposition to the way the UK Government is treating the North Sea industry, and I hope that the Chancellor will listen to the case for an alternative approach which protects exploration and development activity.

"We need, as the First Minster called for last week, a progressive system that puts more of the tax burden on the gatherers of North Sea oil and gas rather than the investors.

"There is no clearer demonstration of the need for Scotland to have responsibility for our North Sea than the misguided tax plans of the Tory and Lib Dem government.

"This year North sea revenue will raise £13.4 billion - a record amount of money flowing from Scotland's seas to the UK Treasury. Scotland's oil is bankrolling this Tory government just as Scotland's people are paying the price in rising taxes and now this Lib Dem /Tory tax is putting jobs at risk."

Mutualisation Not An Excuse For UK Government To Ditch Responsibility

2011-05-23T10:35:00.000+01:00

MP WARNS OVER POSTAL PLAN

Commenting on the publication of the report on the possible mutual structure for the Post Office network published by the UK Government, Banff & Buchan SNP Member of Parliament, Eilidh Whiteford, says that the structure is less important than a guarantee from the UK Government of future business, which they have so far refused to give.

Without that guarantee the SNP believe that the Post Office Network will be at significant risk and there will a major lack of incentive for much needed new investment.

Commenting, the SNP’s Eilidh Whiteford said:

“The idea of a mutual Post Office network is not in itself a bad one, certainly far better than any straight privatisation, but the absolutely vital point for the future of the network is whether it will continue to receive business from the Royal Mail delivery system after privatisation.

“Throughout this process the SNP has been pressing the UK Government to guarantee the post office network the business from a privatised mail delivery company for a lengthy period, giving it a stable environment for investment.

“The Tories and Lib-Dems continue to refuse to grant such an agreement with the result it is still far from certain what level of business will be available for sub post offices should privatisation of the delivery system proceed. This leads to huge uncertainty and lack of confidence for investment.

“There remains a real danger that the Post Office network, so vital in rural areas like Banff & Buchan, could be devastated by the privatisation of the delivery service. The UK Government must not be allowed to use mutualisation of the network as an excuse to ditch that responsibility.”

Turriff Restaurant Wins Place In Tiffin Cup Scottish Final

2011-05-20T12:00:00.004+01:00

Turriff’s Moon Light Tandoori has won a place after being chosen to represent Banff & Buchan by Dr Eilidh Whiteford MP in the prestigious Lyca Tiffin Cup 2011 Competition.

The national competition is held each year to find the best South Asian restaurant in the UK.

This year 60 restaurants were nominated. Moon Light Tandoori, having won a place in the Scottish final will battle with other restaurants to become one of the UK finalists in the Lyca Tiffin Cup 2011 grand Final.

Within the next few weeks a mystery diner will visit the restaurant and judge whether the restaurant deserves to represent Scotland.

Commenting, Eilidh Whiteford MP said:

Mr. Choudhury, Proprietor, Moon Light Tandoori
with Eilidh Whiteford MP

“I am delighted that my nomination for Moon Light Tandoori has been accepted. I hope that Moon Light Tandoori will be chosen to represent Scotland in the UK Final of such a prestigious award. I am sure that everybody in Banff & Buchan will be supporting our restaurant.”

Keith Vaz MP, Chair of the Tiffin Club said:

“We are delighted with the nomination of Moon Light Tandoori. It will really put Banff & Buchan on the culinary map.”

Eilidh Whiteford MP will visit the Moon Light Tandoori, 34 Balmellie Street, Turriff at 4.45pm on Friday 20 May (today) to meet with the proprietor Mr Choudhury and staff.

MP REPEATS WARDEN CALL DURING FIRE-STRUCK SHELTERED HOUSING COMPLEX VISIT

2011-04-12T23:22:00.004+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford has met with concerned residents of Walker Court sheltered housing complex in Aberchirder to discuss Aberdeenshire Council’s plans to cut warden cover at each complex in favour of itinerant teams of wardens providing part-time cover.

The MP’s visit was sought after enquiries which she made following a recent fire at the complex revealed a shocking lack of contingency planning for such an emergency. Dr. Whiteford was able to reassure the tenants that these shortcomings had now been addressed by Aberdeenshire Council and Grampian Fire & Rescue Service - but the tenants remain worried that Aberdeenshire Council’s plans to press ahead with reductions in warden cover will place them at additional risk during emergencies.

Of perhaps even greater concern to the tenants, however, was the loss of the day-to-day services and security provided by having full-time wardens on site.

Commenting after the meeting, Dr. Whiteford said:

“Having heard how the Council’s plans will impact on the lives of the residents in sheltered housing complexes across my constituency, I remain very concerned, and I am not at all convinced that these proposals will produce the level of savings expected. What we will see, however, it a very real reduction in the peace of mind and quality of life which these vulnerable members of our society deserve.

“Residents and their relatives are making their feelings plain, and the Council needs to listen. I don't think the informal role that wardens play in our sheltered housing complexes has been fully appreciated by those managing the services.

“I also doubt the cost savings to be gained. Wardens will end up spending their time in cars, traveling from complex to complex at great expense, instead of spending time 'on the job'. Given our experiences over the past couple of winters when villages like Aberchirder have been badly affected by prolonged periods of adverse weather, it is hard to see how this scheme will work in practice. We know that last winter there were occasions when wardens had to stand-in to help residents when care workers could not reach their clients.”

The Banff & Buchan MP repeated her pledge to urge Aberdeenshire Council to reconsider its position as a matter of urgency.

LOCAL MP ADDRESSES BANFF ACADEMY SENIOR PRIZEGIVING

2011-03-31T00:52:00.000+01:00

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford gave the address and presented the prizes at this year’s senior prizegiving at her old school, Banff Academy.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“I was genuinely delighted to be invited back to the school, and very pleased to be able to be here for the senior prize giving. In my day it wasn’t quite so grand or formal an occasion, but I think it’s only right that the parents, teachers and friends come together to commend the efforts and achievements of Banff Academy pupils who have excelled over the last year.”

Addressing the pupils at the prizegiving ceremony, the MP said:

“The most important thing I can say this evening is to congratulate those of you who have been awarded prizes on your academic achievements, and your efforts on behalf of the wider community.”

Dr Whiteford went on to discuss the disincentive that tuition fees presents to aspiring students:

“I’m sure that quite a number of you here tonight have hopes and plans to go to university or college after the summer, or in years to come. In recent weeks, I don’t think I’ve spoken to any young people aspiring to university, or indeed their parents, who have not expressed concerns about the £9,000 a year tuition fees that will now apply at most of the top universities south of the border.

“I really cannot think of a greater disincentive to education, a greater barrier to opportunity for all according to ability, or a more short-sighted measure. I’m very proud that the Scottish Government has resisted immense pressure to go down a similar route for the Scottish universities, and that Scottish domiciled students studying in Scotland will still be able to enjoy a free education at our world class universities, based on ability to learn, not ability to pay.

“There’s been a lot of talk about the individual benefits that derive from a university education, and less about the benefits to society as a whole. It’s undoubtedly true that graduates tend to earn higher salaries, and are more able to choose careers that they find meaningful and fulfilling. But we also need to remember that those on better wages contribute far more in tax revenues, as you would expect in any progressive tax system; we also need to remember that many graduates do essential, highly skilled jobs that are not particularly lucrative. In my view we need to ask ourselves if we want to live in a low skill, low wage economy, or a high skill, high wage economy.

“If we see higher education only as a cost to the country, rather than an investment in our young people and the future of our country, in my view we’re in danger of becoming like the man the Irish poet and dramatist Oscar Wilde described as knowing “the price of everything and the value of nothing.”

“Or to put it another way, “Education is the wellspring of our health, wealth and happiness” Those were the opening words of a report that crossed my desk recently, and I don’t think I could have put it better. And nor could I think of a more appropriate way to conclude my remarks tonight.

“Congratulations to you all - and I wish Banff Academy, its students and teachers, every continued success.”

Local MP Welcomes Growth of Fraserburgh Business

2011-03-23T00:02:00.000Z

Local MP Eilidh Whiteford this week visited Mewstead (Fraserburgh) LLP to mark the ongoing success of the Fraserburgh-based business. Owners George Tait, Challenge Fishing Company Limited and Zander West, Daystar BF350 Limited welcomed Dr Whiteford to one of their Pelagic trawlers in Fraserburgh Harbour, along with Alan Smith and Mark Gall from the company’s banker, The Royal Bank of Scotland.

Challenge Fishing Company and Daystar BF350 Limited are members of Mewstead (Fraserburgh) LLP, which was created in 2001 between three well known local fishing families. The partnership has gone from strength to strength and in 2010, the LLP took up the opportunity to buy out one of the retiring members, with RBS providing support to assist in the acquisition.

George has subsequently explored other opportunities to diversify his business interests and most recently opened up the Dunes Golf Driving Range and restaurant adjacent to Fraserburgh Golf Club. The new range has created excellent facilities and has resulted in the creation of new local jobs. The new development was supported by RBS.

Eilidh Whiteford MP was delighted to visit the MFV Ocean Quest following discussions with local RBS management about support for small and medium enterprises in the area and said,

Alan Smith, George Tait, Mark Gall
Zander West, Eilidh Whiteford
(l to r)

“Small and medium sized businesses are vital to creating and sustaining jobs in our area and I was delighted to visit George and Zander and see for myself how well the business is doing. Their ambition and vision are to be applauded and although these remain tough times for many businesses, George and Zander’s success highlights how important it is for businesses and banks to work closely and the important role they will both play in the economic recovery.”

George Tait said:

“This is an extremely exciting time for our business and we’re delighted that Eilidh Whiteford has taken the time to come and see us. We’ve got a fantastic workforce and this will go a long way to help us grow and achieve long term success for the business. We also very much appreciate the support RBS has provided in helping us to move the business forward.”

Mark Gall, Regional Director for RBS said:

“George brings incredible experience and expertise to this business and our support recognises his outstanding commitment and professionalism, and reflects our focus on financing the investment ambitions of Scottish business. These are undoubtedly more challenging economic times for the business community but George and his team represent all that is good about the entrepreneurial spirit which exists in Scotland.”

MP’s ENQUIRY REVEALS SHOCKING COUNCIL FIRE SAFETY BREACH

2011-03-22T23:49:00.001Z

Enquiries made by Banff & Buchan MP Eilidh Whiteford following a recent fire in an Aberchirder sheltered housing complex have revealed a shocking lack of basic safety procedures and contingency plans on the part of Aberdeenshire Council.

As Aberdeenshire Council prepares to force through cuts in warden cover in sheltered homes across the North-east, the local MP questioned what effect such cuts would have in the event of an emergency, and cited the recent fire in Walker Court, Aberchirder as an example. In his response to Dr Whiteford, Grampian Fire & Rescue Service Chief Fire Officer, David Dalziel, revealed:

“It became apparent to crews that there were no duty carers or wardens in attendance but, through local knowledge by the officer in charge, he was able to contact an assistant warden to get her to attend.

“There is no record of any consultation by Aberdeenshire Council with Grampian Fire & Rescue Services in respect of warden cover at Walker Court . Neither local crews nor our Control Room staff were aware of changes to warden arrangements.

“Given the change in circumstances, however, we have now arranged to conduct a test of the evacuation procedures and carer/warden response.”

The Chief Fire Officer went on to state:

“I have asked my Head of Community safety to contact the relevant head of service within Aberdeenshire Council (and our two other constituent councils) to ensure that there are robust fire safety procedures in place in Walker Court and similar establishments throughout the North east.”

The Banff & Buchan MP has recently met with representatives from a number of sheltered housing complexes in her constituency, and has been greatly concerned by their fears that warden cover was to be cut, with proposals that many of the smaller units would have to share wardens. She remarked:

“My SNP colleagues on Aberdeenshire Council proposed a fully-costed amendment to the budget which would have preserved much more frontline services, including sheltered housing warden cover, but that was rejected.

“I was already very disturbed to hear of the cuts to warden cover which the Liberal Democrat/Conservative administration in Aberdeenshire Council was proposing. Now I find that they have not even seen fit to ensure the safety of my constituents under existing arrangements.

“I therefore have no confidence in their ability to provide the standard of safety procedures required by such frail and elderly residents in the aftermath of the reductions in warden cover which they seem so determined to impose.

“Clearly, they have not fully thought through the implications of their proposals and I would urge them to reconsider their position on this as a matter of urgency. It is not acceptable that such vulnerable people should be left feeling so worried and uncertain of the Council’s plans for them.”

WHITEFORD URGES UK FISHERIES MINISTER TO KEEP UP FIGHT IN MACKEREL ROW

2011-03-20T22:48:00.001Z

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford urged UK Fisheries Minister Richard Benyon not to back down over the threat of a ‘mackerel war’ after raising the crisis in the House of Commons.

The SNP MP made the plea to the Minister after raising the issue during DEFRA Questions. Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“Action is needed. This matter is of critical importance to the North-east fishing industry.

“2500 jobs, many of them in the North-east, are dependant on the mackerel sector. I have been in close contact with industry representatives and will continue to press the case for them at the highest level in Westminster, while I know my colleague Richard Lochhead will do likewise from a Scottish Government perspective.

“The UK Government, as the EU Member State, must redouble its efforts to ensure a just and fair outcome for our pelagic sector in the face of outrageous and irresponsible behaviour by the Faroese.”

Note: Extract from Hansard follows:

4. Dr Eilidh Whiteford (Banff and Buchan) (SNP): What assessment he has made of the outcome of the recent coastal states discussions in Oslo on mackerel fishing quota; and if he will make a statement. [47196]

The Parliamentary Under-Secretary of State for Environment, Food and Rural Affairs (Richard Benyon): The meeting of coastal states in Oslo from 9 to 11 March ended without agreement on the management of the north Atlantic mackerel stock for 2011. This is very disappointing as it puts the future sustainability of this extremely important stock at risk. The positions of the parties involved remain wide apart but we will continue to work with industry, other EU member states and the Commission to find the best possible outcome to this difficult situation.

Dr Whiteford: I hope the Minister shares my outrage at the 150,000 tonnes of mackerel that the Faroese have subsequently unilaterally awarded themselves as a quota for mackerel for next year, and I know he shares my concerns about the jobs that will be affected by that, both in my constituency and in other pelagic areas. As a matter of urgency, will he meet the Scottish Pelagic Fishermen’s Association and other key UK stakeholders to discuss this matter further?

Richard Benyon: I recently met stakeholders and raised the matter this week—yesterday, in fact—with Commissioner Damanaki, when I gave support to her strong call for measures to be taken against the Faroese and neighbouring states that cause so much damage to a sustainable stock. The problems that the hon. Lady’s constituents and others around our coast face are very much our priorities, and we will continue to support strong measures to deal with them.

TORY CRISIS LOAN CUTS HIT 350,000 VULNERABLE SCOTS

2011-03-20T22:46:00.000Z

SNP CONDEMN TORIES' CRUEL CRISIS CUTS

SNP Work and Pensions spokesperson Eilidh Whiteford MP has hit out at the Tories’ ‘cruel cuts’ after Parliamentary Questions revealed how UK Government cuts to the level and availability of Social Fund Crisis Loans would impact on hundreds of thousands of disabled, pensioner and loan parent households.

The Parliamentary Questions – detailed below – also revealed that 347,270 people in Scotland took out the crisis loan over the last year. The UK Government announced that it will no longer pay Crisis Loans for items such as cookers and beds and the rate paid for living expenses will be cut from 75 per cent down to 60 per cent of benefit rate.

Commenting Dr Whiteford said:

“Cutting crisis loans must be the Tories cruellest cut yet. It will impact on the most vulnerable households, removing safety net support from people just when they need a helping hand.

“The UK Government admit that, over the last year alone, these loans have gone to hundreds of thousands of disabled, pensioner and loan parent households. By their nature crisis loans are a last resort, and so cutting their availability will cause real hardship and drive people towards loan sharks and high interest lenders.

“The fact that so many people have had to take out these loans should underline the difficulties that households are facing, but instead of trying to help the Tory Government are making things much more painful.

“These are loans that people pay back, so these cuts are not about saving money.

"With further powers over the economy and over the welfare system that supports our most vulnerable people we could put a stop to the Tories dismal decade of cuts, invest in growing our economy and support our most vulnerable properly so that together we can make Scotland better.”

Notes:

1. Details of awards by client groups:

Dr Whiteford: To ask the Secretary of State for Work and Pensions how many social fund crisis loans were made to (a) individuals registered as disabled, (b) individuals over the pension age and (c) lone parent households in the last 12 months. [45527]

Steve Webb: The available information is provided as follows:

Client group -- Number of initial awards March 2010 to February 2011 in Great Britain

Disabled -- 443,410
Lone parents -- 287,580
Others -- 233,990
Pensioners -- 17,320
Unemployed -- 1,706,450

All initial awards -- 2,688,750

http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm110316/text/110316w0003.htm#1103171003075

2. Details of the number of people to receive crisis loans, by region, can be found here: http://www.publications.parliament.uk/pa/cm201011/cmhansrd/cm110316/text/110316w0003.htm#1103171003069

LOCAL MP CONGRATULATES PETERHEAD SEA CADETS

2011-03-20T22:42:00.000Z

Banff & Buchan MP Dr Eilidh Whiteford has congratulated Peterhead Sea Cadets on their recent success. The MP attended the recent awards ceremony where cadets were presented with their awards by a senior naval officer.

The Peterhead Sea Cadet Unit was presented with the Stephenson and Thomas Grey Memorial Trophies by the Flag Officer Scotland, Northern England and Northern Ireland and Flag Officer Reserves, Rear Admiral Martin Alabaster, in recognition of their outstanding work and performance at local, regional and national events during 2010.

Commenting, Dr Whiteford said:

“I’m delighted for the young people involved in Peterhead Sea Cadets and send them my congratulations on their achievement. This was a very big occasion for them to receive their awards from such a senior naval officer.

“I understand that the Peterhead Unit is one of the largest units in Scotland and this success is a testament not only to the cadets but to their Officer-in-Charge, John Bowman, and the rest of the team.”