The hard work of being an MSP doesn’t stop just because it’s recess. The October recess break ensured I could visit all the different corners of my West Scotland Region and hear from constituents directly about the issues that matter to them the most.
I had the opportunity to visit many wonderful places in my region and to learn about the important work going on in the area, amongst them The Kilmahew Estate, which is steeped in history, beauty and biodiversity. It is crucial that places like Kilmahew are preserved as they bring great cultural value to our communities. I also visited the beautiful Hill House, designed by Charles Rennie Macintosh, seeing first-hand their fantastic preservation project, “the cage”, a civil engineering marvel. I also met the chairman of the Lennox Partnership, a successful social enterprise that helps get people into employment across my region.
I am working hard to improve my region, helping constituents with a wide variety of issues and concerns. My work in the Equalities, Human Rights and Civil Justice Committee continues apace as we discuss a range of ideas including participatory budgeting and how it can benefit communities. I have also submitted six motions this month acknowledging the achievements of people and groups in my area, including praise for the local council’s plans to welcome and rehome Afghan families after their escape from the Taliban.
I was honoured to attend the Kirking of the Scottish Parliament at St Giles Cathedral. The Kirking is a special multi-faith ceremony that happens on the eve of the opening on the Scottish Parliament with readings from all the faiths. I had the pleasure to chat to His Royal Highness, The Duke of Rothesay.
I also had the privilege of attending the opening ceremony of the Sixth Session of the Scottish Parliament carried out by Her Majesty, The Queen. I was privileged to listen first-hand to the Queen’s speech and to hear history in the making. The theme of this year’s opening ceremony was “local heroes in our communities” and I chose to bring along Sub-Lieutenant Nadine Daly from the Clydebank Sea Cadets, who dedicated her time to help young people in my area during the pandemic.
This year, the Conservative Party Conference was held in Manchester, the first since the pandemic began, and was the perfect opportunity to meet with senior members of the UK Government to discuss how Scotland’s two Governments can work together for the betterment of the people of Scotland. I met many businesses and charities, and was able to catch up with Cabinet Ministers, including Rt Hon Rishi Sunak and Rt Hon Nadhim Zahawai, whom I look forward to working closely with. I was also privileged to address the Conservative Friends on India’s reception alongside many of my MP colleagues. In May’s election, history was made when the Scottish people voted to send the first Sikh Indian MSP to the Scottish Parliament – but definitely not the last.
This month I am starting my face-to-face surgery tour across the West Region. I look forward to meeting my constituents and helping them with any concerns they may raise with me.