Contents

Published: Thursday 21 March 2024

Early Day Motions tabled on Wednesday 20 March 2024

Early Day Motions (EDMs) are motions for which no days have been fixed.

The number of signatories includes all members who have added their names in support of the Early Day Motion (EDM), including the Member in charge of the Motion.

EDMs and added names are also published on the EDM database at www.parliament.uk/edm

[R] Indicates that a relevant interest has been declared.

New EDMs

533Shrewsbury to London Euston Avanti West Coast service

Tabled: 20/03/24 Signatories: 1

Helen Morgan

That this House understands that rail operator Avanti West Coast is intending to withdraw its daily direct service between London Euston and Shrewsbury from June 2024; notes with concern that if this service is withdrawn it would mean that the county of Shropshire has no direct rail service to London; further understands that the Shropshire Chamber of Commerce has voiced concerns that the removal of the service would risk isolating Shropshire businesses from the growth potential of having a direct connection to London, and has called for the decision to be reversed; is concerned that removing this rail link could disincentivise sustainable rail travel and increase carbon emissions; and calls on the Government to ensure that the planned service cuts are withdrawn and the London Euston to Shrewsbury service is protected.

534Opening of Ukrainian Community Group Centre in South Ayrshire

Tabled: 20/03/24 Signatories: 1

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates the Ukrainian Community Group South Ayrshire (UCG), a charity, on the opening of the Ukrainian Community Group Centre, in Ayr, which was officially opened by Mr Yevhen Mankovskyi, vice-consul at the Ukrainian Consulate in Edinburgh, on Friday 15 March 2024; notes the Centre will provide the more than 350 Ukrainian refugees resident in South Ayrshire fleeing from conflict with a safe place, where they can take part in numerous individual and collective activities including supporting families displaced by the devastating conflict in Ukraine, promoting language skills, social inclusion, new friendships, and facilitating mental health and wellbeing; further notes the outstanding contribution of the Management Committee and volunteers who have made this possible; recognises the benefits of such a Centre in providing support to maintain and reconnect with Ukrainian cultural ties and identities whilst integrating with the local community; further recognises and thanks local businesses, volunteer fundraisers, the National Lottery Community Fund, South Ayrshire HSCP and The Scottish Government Communities Mental Health and Wellbeing Fund locally allocated through VASA, for substantial funding for this project; notes the Ukraine Community Centre in Ayr stands as a symbol of hope, resilience, and unity, offering a sanctuary for Ukrainian refugees in South Ayrshire to come together, share their stories, and support each other through the challenges of displacement and the ongoing crisis in their homeland; and, finally, reconfirms that the people of South Ayrshire, Scotland and the United Kingdom stand in unity and solidarity with the people of Ukraine.

535University of Aberdeen course on the impact of female genital mutilation

Tabled: 20/03/24 Signatories: 1

Kirsty Blackman

That this House commends the University of Aberdeen for its efforts in training the next generation on the impact of female genital mutilation (FGM); notes that since its free online course on this topic launched in 2022, over 1,000 learners have participated; and welcomes that it continues to expand the capacity of the course to ensure that anyone with an interest in women's health feels prepared to deal with FGM in a professional capacity.

Added Names

Below are EDMs tabled in the last two weeks to which names have been added. Only the first 6 names and any new names are included.

473St. Anthony's Football Club Ladies Team

Tabled: 6/03/24 Signatories: 7

Chris Stephens

Richard Thomson

Drew Hendry

Hannah Bardell

Patrick Grady

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates St. Anthony’s Ladies Football Team, based in Glasgow South West constituency, on their award of a £5,880 grant from the National Lottery, Awards for All Fund; understands this funding will be used for players kit, training lets, coach education and associated costs for setting up a girls academy; notes that women’s football is gaining increasing popularity and participation, and welcomes this development, that the ladies team compliment the men’s team founded in 1902; and wishes St. Anthony’s well in developing the Ladies team and wish them every success in all its future endeavours.

481First anniversary of Clyde Coast and Cumbraes Men’s Shed

Tabled: 6/03/24 Signatories: 7

Patricia Gibson

Richard Thomson

Drew Hendry

Dr Philippa Whitford

Patrick Grady

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates Clyde Coast and Cumbraes Men’s Shed, based in Largs, on its first anniversary; understands that the Shed was opened at Brisbane Centre, Largs on 4 March 2023 by North Ayrshire Provost Anthea Dickson and David Gardner, Chair of the Scottish Men's Shed Association; welcomes that the centre allows all men over 18 to create, relax, repair, pursue a hobby, access practical help, share and learn new skills; notes that the Shed, with the energy and enthusiasm of volunteers and the backing of North Ayrshire Council, has made tremendous progress over the last year, exemplified by a membership of 88 men aged 18 to 93 and visits from representatives of the Three Towns and Lochwinnoch Men’s Sheds; and wishes Cllr Ian Murdoch and the enthusiastic team of volunteers who have worked so hard to deliver such progress over only one year, all the best, confident that this important community facility will continue to grow and thrive for years to come.

485100th anniversary of Saltcoats, Ardrossan and Stevenston Branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland

Tabled: 7/03/24 Signatories: 7

Patricia Gibson

Alison Thewliss

Dr Philippa Whitford

Jim Shannon

Patrick Grady

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates the Saltcoats, Ardrossan and Stevenston branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland on its 100th anniversary; understands that the branch was formed at Ardrossan Civic Centre, then called the Castlecraigs, on 10 April 1924; is aware that, at that time, servicemen and ex-servicemen having experienced the horrors of the Great War had no outlet in which to safely share experiences; acknowledges that the Legion assists veterans in the Three Towns and outside the area usually due to a referral by SSAFA, Poppy Scotland, other branches or Veterans First Point or a plea for help directly from a veteran or their family; notes that the help can be practical with transport, medication or just company while it may also relate to signposting to welfare, finances, housing or funerals; further acknowledges that the Legion also organises and facilitates various Remembrance parades and services throughout the year; is further aware that this includes Holocaust Memorial Day, D-Day, Armed Forces weekend as well as their upcoming annual HMS Dasher service which remembers those lost in the disaster when HMS Dasher mysteriously exploded and sank between Ardrossan and Brodick in 1943; and wishes Legion chairman Paul Coffey and everyone involved with the Saltcoats, Ardrossan and Stevenston branch of the Royal British Legion Scotland, the very best for the future of the Three Towns British Legion.

486ITC Hydraulic Services Limited

Tabled: 7/03/24 Signatories: 9

Richard Thomson

Allan Dorans

Drew Hendry

Stuart C McDonald

Dave Doogan

Dr Philippa Whitford

That this House congratulates Oldmeldrum-based ITC Hydraulic Services Limited on being awarded the Family Business Award in the Federation of Small Businesses' Celebrating Small Business Awards 2024; notes that this year marks the twenty-fifth year in business of the firm; recognises the vital contribution made to the North East and Scottish economy of family businesses such as ITC Hydraulic Services Limited; further notes the firm is focussed on being a significant supplier to the growing renewables sector; and wishes management and the staff team continued success going forward.

489World Kidney Day 2024

Tabled: 11/03/24 Signatories: 14

Daisy Cooper

Jim Shannon

Dr Philippa Whitford

Mohammad Yasin

Rachael Maskell

Martin Docherty-Hughes

That his House notes that World Kidney Day takes place on Thursday 14 March 2024; recognises that an estimated 7.2 million people in the UK are living with early- and late-stage chronic kidney disease; acknowledges that some patients are being told about their risk or their diagnosis too late, when their lives are under threat and treatment options are extreme and life-altering, rather than at the early stages when there are options to delay or stop the disease getting worse; commends charities, such as Kidney Care UK, for their work in advocating for an earlier diagnosis, testing for those at higher risk, improved primary and secondary care and greater support for kidney patients; and calls on the Government to ensure everyone who is at risk of chronic kidney disease is provided with information on how to reduce that risk, tested annually, monitored, and if diagnosed early, provided with support to prevent or slow down their condition getting worse.

491World Water Day 2024

Tabled: 11/03/24 Signatories: 19

Mr Virendra Sharma

Jonathan Edwards

Jim Shannon

Dr Philippa Whitford

Mohammad Yasin

Rachael Maskell

That this House recognises that 22 March is World Water Day; acknowledges that 2.2 billion people in the world do not have safe water and 3.5 billion people in the world do not have a decent toilet of their own; notes that two-thirds of healthcare facilities in the 46 least developed countries do not have access to basic handwashing facilities; further recognises that women and girls are disproportionately affected by inadequate water, sanitation and hygiene (WASH); further notes that that WASH is an essential component in work on addressing global challenges such as antimicrobial resistance; further acknowledges that the climate crisis is a water crisis and that investment in WASH provides a cost-effective adaptation measure to support communities on the front lines of climate change; notes that the UK’s budget for WASH has been cut by approximately 77% since 2018, damaging the UK’s ability to reach communities with life-saving clean water; is concerned that with just six years to the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) deadline, progress on SDG6 is alarmingly off-track, and so and calls on the Government to increase investment in WASH and champion WASH on a global stage.

494Vitamin B12 deficiency

Tabled: 11/03/24 Signatories: 10

Grahame Morris

Jim Shannon

Rachael Maskell

Kim Johnson

Christine Jardine

Claudia Webbe

That this House welcomes the benefits of vitamin B12 therapy; believes that greater emphasis must be placed on recognising and treating B12 deficiency which can be a major cause of ill health and unemployment; recognises that the replacement of the missing nutrient can restore quality of life, enthusiasm and energy to the individual; notes that many of the drugs used to treat misdiagnosis are expensive and can have lasting adverse effects; and calls on the health community to recognise and research vitamin B12 deficiency to ensure the needs and symptom patterns of patients can be treated in a way that is cost-effective, without side-effects and completely safe.

495Alleged comments by Frank Hester

Tabled: 11/03/24 Signatories: 61

Dawn Butler

Bell Ribeiro-Addy

Layla Moran

Anne McLaughlin

Carol Monaghan

Mrs Helen Grant

That this House expresses its shock regarding the alleged comments made by Frank Hester reported by The Guardian about the hon. Member for Hackney North and Stoke Newington and all Black women; believes these alleged comments to be both racist and violent in nature; notes that Mr Hester is a regular and substantial donor to the Conservative Party; and calls on all leaders including the Prime Minister to condemn these remarks.

502Stewart Brewing

Tabled: 13/03/24 Signatories: 6

Owen Thompson

Jim Shannon

Allan Dorans

Patricia Gibson

Alison Thewliss

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Stewart Brewing brewery in Loanhead, Midlothian, for their recent success at the Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Awards; recognises their award for Food and Drink Producer of the Year 2024; acknowledges how this is a wonderful accomplishment and a testament to the dedication and hard work put into their brewery; further acknowledges how this award is a well-deserved recognition of the Stewart Brewing’s team’s efforts and the innovative products that they create for their customers; and wishes Stewart Brewing continued success and acclaim in the future.

503Melville Golf Centre and the Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Awards

Tabled: 13/03/24 Signatories: 4

Owen Thompson

Jim Shannon

Allan Dorans

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Melville Golf Centre in Lasswade, Midlothian, for their recent success at the Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Awards; recognises their award for Best Innovation in Business 2024; acknowledges how this is a wonderful accomplishment and a testament to the dedication and hard work put into the business; further acknowledges how this award is a well-deserved recognition of the Melville Golf Centre’s team’s efforts and the forward thinking that they use to enhance their customers experiences; and wishes Melville Golf Centre continued success and acclaim in the future.

504Detention of Palestinian human rights lawyer Diala Nader Ibrahim Eideh

Tabled: 13/03/24 Signatories: 9

Martyn Day

Allan Dorans

Dr Philippa Whitford

Jonathan Edwards

Claudia Webbe

Alison Thewliss

That this House notes that, on 24 January 2024, the Israeli military issued an administrative detention order against Palestinian lawyer Diala Nader Ibrahim Eideh for a period of four months; condemns the degrading and humiliating treatment of Ms Eideh by Israeli soldiers throughout her initial ordeal; expresses grave concern at Israel's ongoing practice of administrative detention; believes that this practice is in breach of a number of international agreements and conventions, including the fourth Geneva Convention; further notes that Israel's use of administrative detention effectively circumvents due process and the principles of natural justice, using it as a tool of systematic persecution against Palestinians; also notes Israel's practice of deporting Palestinian prisoners from the Occupied Palestinian Territories to Israel and the subsequent isolation of detainees with denial of family visits and access to lawyers; expresses its view that extensive detention without charge or trial amounts to inhumane, degrading and punitive punishment of prisoners; acknowledges that the detention of Ms Eideh is solely because she is a human rights lawyer and an advocate for human rights; highlights that the frequency of administrative detentions has escalated recently, with the current number of administrative detainees reaching 3,558, the highest since the beginning of the occupation; regrets the Government's lack of any meaningful or substantive action against administrative detention; and calls on the Government to make urgent representations to the Israeli government to cancel this policy, restore rights to all Palestinian prisoners and to release all Palestinians being held without charge or trial.

506CSY Architects

Tabled: 13/03/24 Signatories: 4

Owen Thompson

Jim Shannon

Allan Dorans

Chris Law

That this House congratulates CSY Architects in Dalkeith, Midlothian, for their recent success at the Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Awards; recognises their award for Best Commitment to Youth Development 2024; acknowledges how this is a wonderful accomplishment and a testament to the dedication and hard work put into providing opportunities for young people by the business; further acknowledges how this award is a well-deserved recognition of the CSY Architects team’s efforts; and wishes CSY Architects continued success and acclaim in the future.

507Economic impact of cancer research in the West of Scotland

Tabled: 13/03/24 Signatories: 9

Amy Callaghan

Christine Jardine

Stuart C McDonald

Jim Shannon

Allan Dorans

Patricia Gibson

That this House welcomes a report by London Economics which shows the total economic impact on the UK economy associated with the Cancer Research UK (CRUK) Scotland Institute and the University of Glasgow’s School of Cancer Sciences’ activities in 2021-22 was estimated at approximately £503 million; notes that for every £1 million of research income received, Glasgow’s research activities generate a total of £10.2 million in economic impact across the UK; recognises that the University of Glasgow’s Garscube Campus in East Dunbartonshire is home to the CRUK Scotland Institute (formerly Beatson Institute) and the University’s School of Cancer Sciences which support jobs and promote economic growth throughout the Scottish and UK economies, contributing to the growth of the region’s burgeoning life sciences sector; notes the report outlines how the size and composition of the 2.8 million patient base in the West of Scotland has influenced Glasgow’s approach to cancer research and commends the close collaboration between the core cancer research institutions, local hospitals, clinicians, academics, funders and patients in the region; congratulates the University of Glasgow and all its partners on their success so far; and wishes them well as they continue to co-create innovative new approaches to cancer research for the benefit of patients.

508Penicuik Storehouse and Best Community Impact in Midlothian 2024 Award

Tabled: 13/03/24 Signatories: 5

Owen Thompson

Stuart C McDonald

Jim Shannon

Allan Dorans

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Penicuik Storehouse in Penicuik, Midlothian, for their recent success at the Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Awards; recognises their award for Best Community Impact 2024; acknowledges how this is a wonderful accomplishment and a testament to the dedication and hard work put into helping the community; further acknowledges how this award is a well-deserved recognition of the Penicuik Storehouse’s team’s efforts in helping to train and encourage local volunteers to help support others; and wishes Penicuik Storehouse continued success and acclaim in the future.

510Saltire Hospitality and Family Business of the Year in Midlothian 2024 Award

Tabled: 14/03/24 Signatories: 3

Owen Thompson

Allan Dorans

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Saltire Hospitality in Loanhead, Midlothian, for their recent success at the Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Awards; recognises their award for Family Business of the Year 2024; acknowledges that this is a wonderful accomplishment and a testament to the dedication and hard work put into the business; further acknowledges that this award is a well-deserved recognition of the Saltire Hospitality team’s efforts and the wide range of food that they provide for events while staying committed to being green; and wishes Saltire Hospitality continued success and acclaim in the future.

511Audio Light Systems and SME of the Year in Midlothian 2024 Award

Tabled: 14/03/24 Signatories: 5

Owen Thompson

Allan Dorans

Alison Thewliss

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Audio Light Systems in Dalkeith, Midlothian, for their recent success at the Midlothian and East Lothian Chamber of Commerce Awards; recognises their award for SME of the Year 2024; acknowledges that this is a wonderful accomplishment and a testament to the dedication and hard work put into the business; further acknowledges that this award is a well-deserved recognition of the Audio Light Systems team’s efforts and the continued use of technology that they use to enhance and grow the business; and wishes Audio Light Systems continued success and acclaim in the future.

512Clydebank Blitz 83rd anniversary

Tabled: 14/03/24 Signatories: 9

Martin Docherty-Hughes

Allan Dorans

Patricia Gibson

Alison Thewliss

Jim Shannon

Dr Philippa Whitford

That this House commemorates the 83rd anniversary of the Clydebank Blitz, which commenced on 13 March 1941 for two nights; notes that it was proportionally the heaviest aerial bombardment inflicted on any civilian population in the UK during World War II; recognises the official record of deaths caused by the two nights of bombing and those who died as a result of their injuries in the days, weeks and months that followed; further recognises the profound mental trauma inflicted on the population which remained untreated; salutes the courage of those in the fire, ambulance, military and civilian services who acted so bravely, including the miners of Scotland who travelled from far and wide to dig for survivors; and acknowledges the work of the people of Clydebank who through 83 yearly acts of remembrance have sought to remind the world of the horrors of war, the devastation of aerial bombardment and the need for peace and reconciliation between all nations.

513St Patrick's Day 2024

Tabled: 14/03/24 Signatories: 9

Martin Docherty-Hughes

Allan Dorans

Jonathan Edwards

Patricia Gibson

Alison Thewliss

Jim Shannon

That this House notes that 17 March each year marks St Patrick's Day; recognises that 17 March is an opportunity to celebrate the diverse cultures and heritage of the island of Ireland, as well as celebrating the contribution that Ireland and its diaspora has made in shaping nations across the globe; understands that the people of Scotland, England and Wales, and in particular those within the village of Old Kilpatrick, West Dunbartonshire, have a strong connection to St Patrick as Old Kilpatrick, the most westerly fort of the Roman Antonine Wall, is believed to be Patrick's birthplace as denoted by the county and subsequent local authorities’ use of the St Patrick's Saltire emblem, and that this represents just one of the many bonds that unite the people of these islands in friendship; and wishes all those in the isle of Ireland and the diaspora across the world health, happiness and peace as they celebrate St Patrick's Day.

514Award of the Sovereign Military Hospitallar Order of St John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta

Tabled: 14/03/24 Signatories: 3

Steven Bonnar

Allan Dorans

Chris Law

That this House commends five volunteers of the Friends Together Club of St Patrick's RC Church in Coatbridge, who were recognised for their outstanding charity work by the Sovereign Military Hospitallar Order of St John of Jerusalem of Rhodes and of Malta on 5 February 2024 at their headquarters in Rome; congratulates Liam Hackett on receiving the Cross of Merit, Ena Marie Hamill on receiving a Silver Medal of Merit, as well as Elaine McDermott, Patrick Allen, Yvonne Crowley and Elizabeth Locke on their Bronze Medals of Merit; thanks them for their devotion and dedication to community service and also their work in organising celebrations and outings for people with additional support needs who would not otherwise have the opportunity to do so; and encourages them to not only continue their fantastic work, but to act as role models for others to do so as well.

516National Mentoring Day 2023

Tabled: 18/03/24 Signatories: 3

Dr Lisa Cameron

Jim Shannon

Christine Jardine

That this House notes the life changing work that mentoring organisations are undertaking across the UK to develop skills, resilience and agency of disadvantaged young people; further notes that mentoring interventions can contribute to enhanced social mobility; understands that the cost-of-living crisis is having a detrimental impact on recruitment and retention of volunteers which is particularly impacting availability of mentoring for young people; highlights that National Mentoring Day was marked by mentoring organisations across the UK and internationally; thanks the Diana Award for their support for the All Party Parliamentary Group on Mentoring; and further highlights the benefits for Members of Parliament in engaging in mentoring young people within their constituency.

518Volunteer Midlothian's Volunteer Recruitment Fair 2024

Tabled: 18/03/24 Signatories: 4

Owen Thompson

Jim Shannon

Dr Philippa Whitford

Chris Law

That this House applauds the success of Volunteer Midlothian's Volunteer Recruitment Fair which recently attracted more than 120 attendees eager to explore volunteering opportunities; acknowledges the critical role played by Volunteer Midlothian in promoting and supporting volunteering in the region particularly in light of concerning trends indicating a decline in volunteering rates across Scotland; recognises the annual Volunteer Recruitment Fair as a pivotal event, providing a platform for organisations to showcase volunteer opportunities and directly engage with the local community fostering a culture of altruism and civic engagement; applauds Volunteer Midlothian for the success of this year's fair where attendees enthusiastically pledged their time and skills to various causes within Midlothian and beyond; notes with appreciation the surprise appearance of previous Midlothian Volunteer Awards mascots at the fair adding to the festive atmosphere and serving as a reminder of the upcoming Volunteers’ Week in June; commends Volunteer Midlothian's Chief Officer Lesley Kelly for announcing the opening of nominations for the 2024 Midlothian Volunteer Awards and encourages constituents to nominate deserving volunteers who have made significant contributions to the community; and expresses deep gratitude to Volunteer Midlothian, its staff, volunteers, and all participants for their dedication to making a positive impact on Midlothian.

519World Down Syndrome Day 2024

Tabled: 18/03/24 Signatories: 6

Jim Shannon

Jonathan Edwards

Dr Philippa Whitford

Sir Mike Penning

Christine Jardine

Mary Kelly Foy

That this House celebrates with pride, World Down Syndrome Day 2024, which is a global event that aims to raise awareness, and advocate for the rights of individuals with Down syndrome; marked each year on March 21st, this signifies the triplication of the 21st chromosome that causes Down syndrome; highlights the lots of socks campaign which aims to get a conversation started on raising awareness for people with Down syndrome and the importance of inclusion within society; recalls that the Down Syndrome Act 2022 makes provision for the needs and rights of people in the U.K. with Down syndrome; notes the necessity of ending stereotypes and empowering those diagnosed with Down syndrome; and thanks charities such as Down Syndrome UK for providing resources, training and support to parents and professionals in maternity, health and education to enable society to learn more about supporting people with Down syndrome.

520100th anniversary of the Buddhist Society

Tabled: 18/03/24 Signatories: 3

Jim Shannon

Jonathan Edwards

Christine Jardine

That this House notes the 100th anniversary of the Buddhist Society, one of the oldest Buddhist societies in Europe, founded in 1924 by Christmas Humphreys; further notes that the society presents the major authentic Buddhist schools and traditions holding lectures, classes, courses, and activities in the Therevada, Zen, Pure Land and Tibetan traditions; underlines the importance of religious self-governance for Buddhists; and urges the Government to raise this right at the United Nations and in its diplomatic relations with China.

522Purple Day 2024

Tabled: 18/03/24 Signatories: 7

Kirsten Oswald

Jonathan Edwards

Jim Shannon

Dr Philippa Whitford

Christine Jardine

Chris Law

That this House recognises that Purple Day, the international day for epilepsy, is taking place on Tuesday 26 March 2024; notes epilepsy is the most common neurological condition with an estimated 55,000 people living with the condition in Scotland; applauds the work of Epilepsy Scotland who fight to reduce the stigma experienced by people living with the condition and to influence public policy to ensure appropriate support is available; highlights the wide range of services provided by Epilepsy Scotland including a helpline, a check-in service, a youth service, a well-being service, and online support groups; understands that Purple Day is a time where thousands of people will come together across the world to raise awareness of epilepsy, dispel myths, and support those individuals living with the condition; acknowledges that Epilepsy Scotland is encouraging people to wear the colour purple and lighting buildings purple to mark the occasion and to take part in fundraising activities such as a sponsored run or hosting a quiz night or coffee morning; and wishes Epilepsy Scotland all the very best as they continue to advocate for people with epilepsy.

523Roger Daltrey’s 24 years of Royal Albert Hall shows for Teenage Cancer Trust

Tabled: 18/03/24 Signatories: 5

Amy Callaghan

Jim Shannon

Dr Philippa Whitford

Christine Jardine

Chris Law

That this House celebrates 24 years of the Teenage Cancer Trust concerts at the Royal Albert Hall which have raised over £32 million, money that has helped fund specialist nurses, hospital units and support services right across the UK; applauds the work of Teenage Cancer Trust’s Honorary Patron and the concert’s founder and curator, Roger Daltrey, who for 24 years has persuaded some of the most well-known artists from across the world perform special, one-of-a-kind shows to raise money for Teenage Cancer Trust; welcomes the unforgettable opportunity the shows also offer for young people being cared for at Teenage Cancer Trust units to experience going backstage at these concerts; and notes that every day seven young people aged 13-24 will receive a cancer diagnosis, that this number is rising, and that Teenage Cancer Trust provides specialist nursing care and support to get them through it.

524Scottish Seabird Centre awarded National Lottery Heritage Fund grant

Tabled: 19/03/24 Signatories: 2

Kenny MacAskill

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates the Scottish Seabird Centre in North Berwick, East Lothian, on being awarded £249,685 from the National Lottery Heritage Fund; understands that they aim to provide the capacity needed for the Scottish Seabird Centre with their project entitled A resilient future: for people, nature and our charity, which will explore opportunities to strengthen sources of income; notes that this will also provide an opportunity to address requirements for environmental sustainability; commends the work of over 20 years that the Scottish Seabird Centre have been doing to educate people on Scotland's marine wildlife, habitats and iconic seabirds; and wishes everyone involved the very best for this, and any future projects.

525North Berwick and the Sunday Times Best Place to Live Guide

Tabled: 19/03/24 Signatories: 2

Kenny MacAskill

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates North Berwick, East Lothian, on being named the overall winner for best place to live in the UK by The Sunday Times Best Place to Live Guide; acknowledges that North Berwick is the first Scottish town to be named winner by the Best Place to Live in the 12 year history of the survey; commends the work of the many independent shops on the town's thriving high street as a sign of the positive and welcomed effect that small businesses contribute to the community; further congratulates East Linton, East Lothian, on being selected as area winners in the survey; and wishes the communities of North Berwick and East Linton continued success with their futures.

526Countdown to the reopening of the Levenmouth Rail Link

Tabled: 19/03/24 Signatories: 4

Peter Grant

Jim Shannon

Martin Docherty-Hughes

Chris Law

That this House welcomes the installation of countdown clocks at Edinburgh Waverley, Cameron Bridge and Leven railway stations to mark the final 100 days until the reopening of the Levenmouth rail link; eagerly anticipates the arrival on 2 June 2024 of the first passenger trains in Leven for 55 years; notes that providing low carbon transport options will make Levenmouth even more attractive for inward investment and will support growth in tourism and other industries, bringing both social and economic benefits to the whole of Levenmouth; commends the Scottish Government, Fife Council and Network Rail for their work in delivering the new rail link; commends in particular the volunteers from Levenmouth Rail Campaign who over more than two decades have worked to build support from the Levenmouth community and from Councillors, MSPs and MPs of all parties; and looks forward to long-awaited opportunities for creating employment, greater access to education, and improved connectivity for the area’s people and businesses.

527Auchmuty High School, Digital Schools Award

Tabled: 19/03/24 Signatories: 3

Peter Grant

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Auchmuty High School in Glenrothes on recently earning their Digital Schools Award from Education Scotland in recognition of the school’s excellence in integrating digital technology into learning and teaching; notes that the Digital Schools Award is a national awards scheme to promote, recognise and encourage a whole school approach to the use of digital technology in schools; highlights that the Digital Schools Award recognises best practice and builds on the progress already made, by providing a pathway and resources for schools seeking to do more with digital technology; further highlights that the programme also recognises those who achieve excellence and supports the efforts of schools, teachers and learners in making the best use of digital technology in the classroom; and thanks the partnership between Education Scotland, Hewlett Packard, Skills Development Scotland and AMD Processors for supporting this important initiative.

528Fife Young Carers 25th anniversary

Tabled: 19/03/24 Signatories: 3

Peter Grant

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Fife Young Carers on the 25th anniversary of the organisation; commends the work of the 30 staff and numerous volunteers in supporting Fife’s young carers in their caring roles and importantly in providing service users with a range of advice, support and opportunities in order to empower these amazing young people to reach their goals; highlights that more than 1000 young carers are supported in a variety of ways by Fife Young Carers whether through respite, one to one support, peer support, education support, advocacy and so much more; thanks all of the staff and volunteers for all the work that they do in supporting Fife’s Young Carers at this exceptional milestone; and wishes both the staff and service users all the best for the next 25 years of Fife Young Carers, and beyond.

529St Pauls RC Primary School Glee Choir heat winners

Tabled: 19/03/24 Signatories: 3

Peter Grant

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

That this House congratulates St Pauls RC Primary School Glee Choir on their fantastic win of their recent heat at the Scottish Primary School Glee Challenge 2024 held in the Alhambra Theatre in Dunfermline over two nights in March; highlights that St Pauls, of Glenrothes, rocked their way to the top spot to go forward to the Fife Regional Final; notes the importance of the event in highlighting the incredible talent of so many pupils in Scotland's schools, raising confidence and offering opportunities to shine; commends the Challenge, under the auspices of the Frisson Foundation, on being the largest most inclusive singing, dance, performance and choir initiative engaging with thousands of Scotland’s primary school children; gives thanks to all of the teachers, school staff and especially the children of each and every school for taking part and making the event so exceptional; and wishes St Pauls Glee Choir all the very best for the rest of the Glee Challenge.

530Treatment of Tibetan protesters in Dege County, Tibet

Tabled: 19/03/24 Signatories: 5

Chris Law

Jim Shannon

Jonathan Edwards

Martin Docherty-Hughes

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

That this House strongly condemns the recent brutal crackdown on peaceful Tibetan protesters in Dege County, Tibet; calls for an immediate and irreversible halt to the construction of Kamtok Hydroelectric Dam, as well as the forced relocation of more than 2,000 local Tibetans from their ancestral lands; acknowledges the courage of local Tibetans who have shared evidence, including videos, depicting desperate appeals, mass arbitrary detentions and the deployment of People’s Armed Police, despite internet surveillance and the risk of detention and imprisonment for communication with Tibetans abroad, especially during protests; expresses deep concern over the police violence and ongoing restrictions on communication in Dege, as well as the looming threat of forced relocation and the destruction of six ancient monasteries with significant universal heritage value; recognises the lack of genuine and meaningful integration of Tibetans’ profound knowledge and reverence for local sacred mountains in land-use planning and political decision-making; and therefore strongly urges the Government to call on the Chinese government to immediately and unconditionally release all individuals detained in connection with these events, provide medical treatment for all those injured until full recovery, immediately and irreversibly halt construction of all hydropower dams in Tibet without the consent of the local population and consideration of Tibetans’ knowledge of social, cultural and ecological implications, and immediately end the security crackdown in Dege County.

531Neurodiversity Celebration Week

Tabled: 19/03/24 Signatories: 7

Drew Hendry

Jim Shannon

Christine Jardine

Jonathan Edwards

Martin Docherty-Hughes

Chris Law

That this House recognises Neurodiversity Celebration Week and the significance of fostering inclusive work environments for neurodiverse individuals; acknowledges the barriers faced by neurodivergent individuals in accessing employment opportunities and obtaining assessments for conditions such as autism and ADHD; notes the need to support employers in creating inclusive workplaces by providing resources for neurodiversity training; recognises the value of partnerships between businesses and neurodiversity support groups to enhance support for neurodiverse employees; commends local organisations for their efforts in raising awareness and providing support to neurodivergent individuals; and in doing so promotes understanding and inclusivity to ensure all individuals, regardless of neurodiversity, can thrive in the workplace.

532Government legal advice on Israeli Government actions and international law

Tabled: 19/03/24 Signatories: 28

Richard Burgon

Imran Hussain

Claire Hanna

Caroline Lucas

Liz Saville Roberts

Chris Stephens

This House notes the remarks by the United Nations High Commissioner for Human Rights on 19 March 2024 that the Israeli Government’s restrictions on humanitarian aid for Gaza may amount to the use of starvation as a method of war, which is a war crime; is alarmed at the mounting evidence that the Israeli Government's actions in Gaza are in breach of international law; is deeply concerned by the UK Government’s continued and ongoing refusal to make available to all MPs the legal advice it has received relating to Israel’s conduct in Gaza and its implications for the UK’s fulfilment of its legal obligations under international law; and, given the importance of the UK Government, Ministers and MPs not being complicit in any violations of international law by the Israeli Government, calls on the UK Government to immediately make this legal advice available to MPs.