Contents

Published: Tuesday 26 March 2024

Early Day Motions tabled on Monday 25 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

545Twenty-one Years of the Maryhill Activity Directory

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Patrick Grady

That this House congratulates all those involved in the production of the Maryhill Activity Directory, following the launch of its tenth edition during its 21st anniversary year on Friday 22 March 2024 at a special event in the Mackintosh Halls on Shakespeare Street in the Maryhill area of Glasgow; recognises that the directory, which began as a short list of events and community organisations on a single sheet of paper in 2003, has grown to become a full-colour, 42-page A5 brochure with over 600 listings and contact details for a wide range of groups, churches, sports organisations, voluntary services, elected representatives and more across Maryhill and beyond; notes that in addition to the printed directory, a regularly updated website and app has also been produced in recent years; further notes in particular the important role of Deacon Jim Hamilton of Maryhill Parish Church in the development of the directory throughout its history; pays tribute to Jim and all the volunteers who have helped to make the directory a reality, and extends its thanks to all the organisations who provide the services and activities features in the directory, and wishes all those involved every success for many years to come.

546Bella the Beithir

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Patrick Grady

That this House congratulates all those involved in the development and unveiling of Bella the Beithir, believed to be one of the biggest community artworks in Scotland, at the new Stockingfield Bridge on the Forth and Clyde Canal in Glasgow North on Friday 1 March 2024; notes that in Scottish folklore, the Beithir is a lightning serpent most often seen in summer evenings during storms, and that this sculpture, as imagined by artist Nichol Wheatley, has seven coloured mosaicked winds along her body and a world egg in her mouth symbolising hope; further notes that the new bridge reconnects the areas Maryhill, Ruchill and Gilshochill, and that Scottish Canals commissioned eight community artworks to form an art park, with making, connecting, building relationships and joy at its heart; notes that Bella’s body was formed using excess earth from landscaping work, reducing the development's carbon footprint by reusing 1,000 tonnes of earth, and that decoration of the Beithir requires some 50,000 handmade tiles and 6,000 scales to cover her 120 metre body, with production led by Louise Nolan and Ruth Impey from Make It Glasgow and involving input from across the local community including schools, women’s groups, youth clubs, individuals and families; notes that the project has been developed considering recent research evidencing the positive change engaging in arts and culture can lead to for communities and wider social benefits achieved as a result; and looks forward to the continuing decoration of Bella and development of her presence in the community.

547Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI)

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

George Galloway

That this House commends the WASPI campaigners who have fought for many years against unilateral and discriminatory changes to the state pension age; welcomes the report of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman which found the Department for Work and Pensions was clearly guilty of maladministration over its treatment of WASPI women; condemns the protracted failure of the Government to commit to paying compensation; calls on the Government to apologise forthwith; believes £2,950 is not adequate compensation; and further calls on the Government to fully compensate the WASPI women for the losses and delay they have suffered.

548British Youth Council

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

George Galloway

That this House expresses its sadness following the announcement of the British Youth Council that it is to permanently close after more than 75 years championing the voices of young people and engaging them in our democratic process; and calls on the Government to step in to attempt to prevent this closure, and to redouble its efforts to engage young people in politics.

549Stage two report of the Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman on women's state pension age

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Patricia Gibson

That this House welcomes the findings of the UK Parliamentary and Health Service Ombudsman (PHSO) which vindicates women born in the 1950s who were severely impacted when their state pension age was raised with little or no notice; notes that the Ombudsman's conclusions that the Government needs to act swiftly to ensure a compensation scheme is established to remedy the failings by the Department for Work and Pensions (DWP); further notes with concern that the Ombudsman’s report highlights that the DWP has clearly indicated that it will refuse to comply; believes that this is completely unacceptable and agrees that DWP must do the right thing and be held accountable for its failure to do so; is mindful of the suffering of the woman affected by the changes to their state pension age, with retirement plans thrown into chaos, leaving many in dire financial straits, exacerbated during a cost of living crisis; appreciates that the generation of women affected have already been victims of pay discrimination; commends the Women Against State Pension Inequality (WASPI) campaigners who have conducted their campaign for pension justice with dignity despite provocation in the form of dismissal and intransigence from the Government over many years; urges the Government to accept the fact that the women affected need and deserve compensation which recognises their financial loss and distress; and rejects any attempts to erect barriers which will prevent prompt access to compensation so that all WASPI women can finally enjoy the retirement they have earned.

550The Big Plastic Count

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Ben Lake

That this House congratulates the thousands of schools, households, community groups and businesses that came together to mark the Big Plastic Count between 11 and 17 March; acknowledges that this annual citizen science investigation provides a unique snapshot of the scale of the UK’s plastic crisis; notes that the study by Greenpeace UK and Everyday Plastic provides valuable data about our plastic footprint; highlights that almost a quarter of a million people took part in the Big Plastic Count in 2022, which revealed that a quarter of a million participants threw away 6.4 million pieces of packaging waste in one week, yet only 12% was likely recycled; and calls on the UK Government to ban plastic waste exports, set a moratorium on new incinerators, and implement a Deposit Return Scheme for plastic bottles.

551Amma Birth Partners at GSK Impact Awards

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Alison Thewliss

That this House congratulates Amma Birth Partners, a Glasgow charity, on their success in the GSK Impact Awards; recognises the work of Amma Birth Partners in providing care, information and advocacy to pregnant people, new parents and families in need of additional support; notes that this support includes birth companionship, postnatal companionship and peer support for new and expecting parents; acknowledges that since their inception in May 2019, they have provided support to more than 300 pregnant people across Glasgow and the surrounding area; thanks Amma Birth Partners staff, volunteers, supporters and trustees for all their hard work; and wishes them all the best in all future endeavours.

552Centenary of Glasgow Philharmonic Male Voice Choir

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Alison Thewliss

That this House commemorates the upcoming centenary of the Glasgow Philharmonic Male Voice Choir (GPMVC) on 9 of June 2025; notes that the GPMVC was formed by the amalgamation of the Partick Male Voice Choir and a number of recruits from elsewhere in the city of Glasgow, who had participated in choirs formed by war workers in Glasgow during the First World War; recognises that the GPMVC has provided annual concerts every year since 5 March 1926, the run only being broken by the coronavirus pandemic; acknowledges the role of the GPMVC in providing personal support mechanisms to allow men to build a sense of community and gain excellence in the musical arts; celebrates the many achievements of the GPMVC, including winning the International Trophy at the Welsh National Eisteddfod in Llangollen in 1950, participating in the London Welsh Male Voice Choir’s Festivals of Male Voice in 1990, 1994, 2000, 2006 and 2012, and the Police Scotland Semper Vigilo Memorial Service at the Old Cathcart Parish Church on 28 November 2021; notes that the GPMVC also operates a scholarship scheme to help young singers with uniform and travel costs and participates in charity initiatives for humanitarian aid to Ukraine; and thanks all involved with the choir for their hard work and their vital contribution to Scottish cultural life.

553StrathCyber awarded Academic Centre of Excellence status

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Alison Thewliss

That this House acknowledges that StrathCyber, the Cyber Security Research Group at the University of Strathclyde has been granted Academic Centre of Excellence status from the Government; notes that this status was conferred by the Government's National Cyber Security Centre in recognition of the quality of the research and impact of the Strathclyde Centre; recognises that this makes the University of Strathclyde one of only 21 UK universities to have an Academic Centre of Excellence in Cyber Security Research; celebrates the interdisciplinary approach of StrathCyber in their research into digital resilience and digital harms and the extensive expertise of the research group in human factors, infrastructure security, privacy and regulation, system security, and formal methods; congratulates all academics, support staff and senior management involved with the StrathCyber project; and wishes them all the best in all future endeavours.

554No Falls Week 2024

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Alison Thewliss

That the House marks No Falls Week 2024, which takes place between 13 and 17 May 2024; acknowledges that this week is an opportunity to recognise the powerful grassroots campaign dedicated to promoting safe working at height, providing an opportunity for organisations in all sectors to focus on working at height safely; mourns the 40 people who lost their lives due to a fall from height in Scotland, England and Wales in 2022-23 according to Health and Safety Executive figures; recognises that falls from height were responsible for 30% of all workplace deaths and that every year thousands of non-fatal falls take place, estimated at as many as 100 every day; understands that the No Falls Foundation has produced a toolkit with resources and guidelines to assist organisations in planning and implementing activities to commemorate No Falls Week; and supports the calls encouraging employers not only to contribute to the broader narrative of safety in working at height, but also to demonstrate their dedication to the wellbeing of their employees.

55550th anniversary of the Rotary Club of Kilsyth

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Stuart C McDonald

That this House extends congratulations to the Rotary Club of Kilsyth on reaching its 50th anniversary; acknowledges and commends the important work carried out by the Rotary Club in the communities of Kilsyth and surrounding villages; expresses gratitude to the club's membership for their continued dedication to the values of the club, including service above self; recognises the broader role of local Rotary clubs in contributing to humanitarian projects across the world; and wishes the Rotary Club of Kilsyth the best of luck for the next 50 years and beyond.

556UK Giving Report 2024 and Edinburgh West constituency

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Christine Jardine

That this House congratulates the people of Edinburgh West for being named the most generous constituency in Scotland in the Charities Aid Foundation UK Giving Report 2024; notes their findings estimate 64% of people in the constituency donated to a charitable cause in 2023, totalling an estimated £23,129,000; further notes this places Edinburgh West as the fifth most generous constituency in the United Kingdom; commends everyone across Edinburgh West and the UK for their generosity at a time when a cost-of-living crisis is putting pressure on household finances; and congratulates volunteers and charity workers on their hard work using these donations to support many worthwhile causes across the country.

557Held In Our Hearts

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Martyn Day

That this House recognises the work of Scottish charity Held In Our Hearts in providing baby loss counselling and support to families for over 40 years; acknowledges the trauma caused by baby loss at any stage and the importance of making connections with people able to relate to the overwhelming emotions experienced; notes the range of services provided, such as one to one or couples counselling, peer support, group meetings, pregnancy support and training for healthcare professionals and students; congratulates the charity on their innovative new project Hospital to Home which bridges the gap from clinical to community, provides early intervention, and an opt out rather than opt in approach to baby loss and validates complex and intense feelings at a difficult time when a baby or young child dies; further notes that the project is being piloted in four Scottish Health Board across rural and urban areas; commends the Held In Our Hearts staff, the majority of whom are bereaved parents themselves, on their empathy and hard work in providing support to families dealing with loss; and notes that people should not face baby loss alone and encourages anyone who has been affected by baby loss to reach out for support.

558Big East Renfrewshire Spring Lunch 2024

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Kirsten Oswald

That this House notes that the Big East Renfrewshire Spring Lunch took place on 6th March 2024 at the Eglinton Arms Hotel, Eaglesham; recognises the wide range of local groups which took part in the lunch, including self directed support from East Renfrewshire, East Renfrewshire Carers’ Centre, East Renfrewshire Disability Action, Social Security Scotland, Mearns Kirk Helping Hands, Acumen/RAMH, East Renfrewshire HSCP, Your Voice, East Renfrewshire Housing Team, Technology Enabled Care, Eaglesham Community Garden, Home Energy Scotland, Macmillan East Renfrewshire, Talking Points, Voluntary Action East Renfrewshire, Money Advice and Rights Team, Enable LAC Team, Sight Scotland – Veterans, Neighbourhood Networks, Trading Standards Prevention Team, Alcohol Focus – Scotland, Outside the Box, Community Larder and East Renfrewshire Libraries; commends the work of all of these local organisations and highlights the positive impact they have in East Renfrewshire as they work hard to improve the lives of residents across our local area; and further notes that East Renfrewshire is all the better for the work of these groups and the community spirit which they foster.

559Rohan’s Kitchen, Scottish Restaurant Awards 2024

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Kirsten Oswald

That this House congratulates Rohan’s Kitchen, based in Stamperland East Renfrewshire, on being highly commended in the Indian Restaurant of the Year category at the Scottish Restaurant Awards; notes that the prestigious awards ceremony took place on 18 March 2024 at the Doubletree by Hilton Hotel in Glasgow, when the restaurant industry gathered for a ceremony which recognised and celebrated Scotland’s world-class restaurant sector; understands the Scottish Restaurant Awards provides a chance to showcase the diversity and quality of Scottish cuisine and aims to acknowledge the commitment and hard work of restaurants, chefs, and their teams in delivering great dining experiences to customers; further notes this was the third Scottish Restaurant Awards ceremony and that the occasion continues to grow from strength to strength; celebrates the positive impact of businesses like Rohan’s Kitchen, adding to the vibrancy of local communities; and wishes Rohan’s Kitchen every continued success and the very best for the future.

56040th anniversary of Border Biscuits

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Angela Crawley

That this House congratulates Border Biscuits on celebrating their 40th anniversary in 2024; recognises that, since its establishment in 1984, Border Biscuits has become an institution in Lanark and a well-loved brand across the UK; commends Border Biscuits for remaining connected and invested in the local community through their Border Community Support programme, into which the company donates 10 per cent of its profits; recognises the success of the Border Community Support programme, which reached the £1 million milestone in February 2021; appreciates that Border Biscuits continues to operate as a family-run business; and looks forward to the next 40 years of dark chocolate gingers, Viennese whirls and butterscotch crunches.

561250th anniversary of Millisle and Ballycopeland Presbyterian Church

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House celebrates the 250th Anniversary of Millisle and Ballycopeland Presbyterian Church, built in 1773; notes this place of worship is made up of people from all backgrounds and walks of life with a strong faith in Christ and a desire to share God's message of hope and love; highlights the celebrations taking place in the coming weeks and the exhibition that has been open to the public from last year to learn about the fantastic history of the church; further highlights the Civic Reception hosted by the Mayor of Ards and North Down Cllr Jennifer Gilmour at which present were the Deputy Lord Lieutenant of Co Down and local Councillors of Ards and North Down; sends best wishes to the church for the future; and thanks them for spreading the message of Christ within the local community for 250 years.

562Kilmood Playgroup

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House notes Kilmood Playgroup in Killinchy is celebrating 50 years of nurturing preschool children in their care, learning and development; highlights the efforts of all staff, both past and present, who have served the local community and provided a safe, healthy environment for children; further notes the fantastic reputation the Playgroup have in the local area and that they began their journey in Killinchy Presbyterian Church Hall before finding a home in Kilmood Parish Church Hall where they continue to thrive to this day; underlines the series of events being held to mark the 50th celebration, such as a special summer fayre on Saturday 22 June with an anniversary church service planned for later in the Autumn; sends Kilmood Playgroup well wishes for the future; and thanks them dearly for the service to looking after and caring for local children in the community.

56390th anniversary of the Wiener Holocaust Library

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Kirsten Oswald

That this House commends the brilliant work and resources of the Wiener Holocaust Library, located on Russell Square, London; notes the Library is one of the world’s foremost and extensive archives on the Holocaust, Nazi era, and genocide; understands the Library was founded in 1934 by Dr Alfred Wiener, a prominent campaigner against Nazism in the 1920s and 30s, after he fled Nazi Germany for Amsterdam where he set up the Jewish Central Information Office (JCIO) at the request of the Board of Deputies of British Jews and the Anglo-Jewish Association to collect information about the Nazis and the treatment of Jews; recognises that the Library moved to the UK following the pogrom of 1938 and that the JCIO was increasingly referred to as Dr Wiener’s Library during the war, leading to its eventual renaming; further notes the Library contains some of the earliest accounts produced by survivors of the Holocaust, that it holds the UK’s digital copy of the International Tracing Service Archive, which it puts at the service of survivors, descendants of victims, and academics and that the Library serves to be a living memorial to the evils of the past, engaging with people of all backgrounds and ages in understanding the Holocaust; highlights that the Library marked its 90th anniversary in February 2024; further commends the Library’s ongoing efforts opposing antisemitism and other forms of intolerance; and wishes everyone involved with the Wiener Holocaust Library all the very best as they continue their vital work.

564Include Me 2 Club

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Kirsten Oswald

That this House congratulates Include Me 2 Club on being nominated as Team of the Year at the upcoming National Youth Work Awards 2024; highlights the important work carried out by Include Me 2 Club, supporting individuals with additional support needs, disabilities, and mental health conditions in Glasgow, Renfrewshire, and East Renfrewshire; understands that Include Me 2 Club reaches over 1,200 members through its many different programmes and activities; recognises Include Me 2 Club’s delivery of services that break down barriers and promote inclusion from social enterprises including Social Blend Coffee Shops and Bike Hub, employability programmes, and securing over 126 awards and accreditations in the last year alone; also understands the National Youth Work Awards aim to celebrate youth workers who make a positive difference in the lives of young people; further understands that the National Youth Work Awards Dinner 2024 will take place on Wednesday 12 June at the Double Tree by Hilton Hotel in Glasgow; and wishes all staff and volunteers at Include Me 2 Club all the very best of luck ahead of the awards ceremony.

565Marlie Packer 100th cap

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Sarah Dyke

That this House recognises the fantastic achievement of Marlie Packer on reaching 100 caps for the Red Roses; congratulates her on becoming only the seventh player to achieve this feat; wishes the Red Roses luck in the rest of their Six Nations matches; understands the important role sport has to play in all of our lives; is concerned by more than a third of respondents to the BBC Elite British Sportswomen study saying they have considered giving up sport because of the cost of living crisis; further recognises the unfair financial pressure often felt by elite sportswomen; calls for women’s sport to be given the respect it deserves and for sportswomen to have kit specifically designed for them; is alarmed that only 10% of girls aged between 13 and 16 are meeting the recommended daily guidelines of 60 minutes physical activity per day; welcomes Women in Sport’s new study focusing on the impact of young boys' attitudes towards girls in sport; advocates for increased visibility of girls and women in sport, at home, in schools and in the community; and calls upon the Government to expand the provision of extra-curricular activities such as sport, music, drama, debating and coding in schools.

566Animals

Tabled: 25/03/24 Signatories: 1

Mrs Natalie Elphicke

That an humble Address be presented to His Majesty, praying that the Official Controls (Location of Border Control Posts) (England) Regulations 2024 (S.I., 2024, No. 416), dated 22 March 2024, a copy of which was laid before this House on 22 March 2024, be annulled.

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.

495Alleged comments by Frank Hester

Tabled: 11/03/24 Signatories: 66

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.

505Palestinians and the Researchers at Risk scheme

Tabled: 13/03/24 Signatories: 11

Caroline Lucas

Dr Philippa Whitford

Jonathan Edwards

Ben Lake

Claudia Webbe

Rachael Maskell

This House commends the Researchers at Risk scheme instituted by the British Academy in partnership with the Council for At-Risk Academics and with support from the Academy of Medical Sciences, the Royal Academy of Engineering and the Royal Society; notes that the scheme was funded primarily by the Department for Business, Energy and Industrial Strategy and is currently restricted to Ukrainian academics and their families; observes that every higher education institution in Gaza has been destroyed or severely damaged during the war waged by the Israeli government in the wake of the horrific terror attacks of 7 October 2023; deplores that an estimated 30,000 civilians have been killed in Gaza in this time, including historians, economists, scholars of English literature and language, poets, physicists, gynaecologists, political scientists, psychologists, surgeons and lawyers; believes the academic community in Gaza is currently one of the most at risk in the world; and therefore calls on the UK Government to provide specific protection by renewing the funding for the Researchers at Risk scheme and opening it to Palestinian academics immediately and without delay.

519World Down Syndrome Day 2024

Tabled: 18/03/24 Signatories: 12

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.

522Purple Day 2024

Tabled: 18/03/24 Signatories: 11

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.

526Countdown to the reopening of the Levenmouth Rail Link

Tabled: 19/03/24 Signatories: 8

Peter Grant

Jim Shannon

Martin Docherty-Hughes

Chris Law

Steven Bonnar

George Galloway

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: 7

Peter Grant

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Steven Bonnar

George Galloway

Allan Dorans

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: 8

Peter Grant

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Steven Bonnar

Dr Philippa Whitford

George Galloway

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: 8

Peter Grant

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Steven Bonnar

Dr Philippa Whitford

George Galloway

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: 11

Chris Law

Jim Shannon

Jonathan Edwards

Martin Docherty-Hughes

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Caroline Lucas

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: 15

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: 37

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.

534Opening of Ukrainian Community Group Centre in South Ayrshire

Tabled: 20/03/24 Signatories: 9

Allan Dorans

Steven Bonnar

Dr Philippa Whitford

Dave Doogan

Alan Brown

Jonathan Edwards

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: 10

Kirsty Blackman

Jonathan Edwards

Dr Philippa Whitford

Claudia Webbe

Mary Kelly Foy

George Galloway

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.

536Teachers’ Pension Scheme and universities

Tabled: 21/03/24 Signatories: 10

Mary Kelly Foy

Jonathan Edwards

Beth Winter

Claudia Webbe

Rachael Maskell

Kate Osborne

That this House notes that employers’ contributions to the Teachers’ Pension Scheme (TPS), of which approximately 58,000 university staff are members, are soon to increase by 5% in England and Wales; further notes, with concern, that while schools and colleges will receive additional funding from the Department for Education (DfE) to cover these increased costs, higher education institutions will not; recognises that many post-1992 university employers who are part of the TPS are facing severe financial difficulties, already resulting in course closures and job cuts; believes this situation will worsen dramatically if the Government refuses to intervene, putting thousands of jobs at risk and harming the reputation of the higher education sector; and therefore strongly urges the DfE to commit to providing additional funding for universities to cover the increase in TPS contributions in order to prevent this crisis.

537St Andrew's Secondary School fundraising

Tabled: 21/03/24 Signatories: 6

David Linden

Dr Philippa Whitford

George Galloway

Allan Dorans

Anne McLaughlin

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates pupils at St Andrew’s Secondary School for their tireless efforts in raising over £8000 for charities and causes across Glasgow East; recognises their selfless dedication in assisting St Andrews Hospice in their Ben Nevis Challenge, 6K fun run and participating in a Sleep Out for Shelter Scotland; applauds them for living by their school motto of Service not Self in volunteering for charities across the East End of Glasgow including The Wayside Club and local food banks; commends St Andrew’s Secondary School for empowering their students to create positive social change in their local community; and wishes all pupils, teachers and staff at St Andrew’s all the success in their future endeavours in promoting social justice.

538One year anniversary of the kidnapping of Elizabeth Tsurkov

Tabled: 21/03/24 Signatories: 12

Tommy Sheppard

Jonathan Edwards

Layla Moran

Dr Philippa Whitford

Mr Alistair Carmichael

Allan Dorans

That this House notes that today marks the one year anniversary of the kidnapping of Elizabeth Tsurkov, a dual Russian-Israeli national, who is being held hostage in Iraq by the militant group Kata'ib Hezbollah; expresses dismay at her kidnapping and calls for her immediate release; extends solidarity to her family as they campaign for her safe release; further notes that the Iraqi Government has opened an investigation last year into the kidnapping and expresses hope that this will now move swiftly and without undue delay; notes that the Popular Mobilisation Force (PMF) consisting of Kata'ib Hezbollah and other militant groups is funded by the Iraqi government; expresses concern at the potential risk of UK Government funding to Iraq benefiting the PMF; urges the UK Government to ensure robust procedures are in place to ensure that funding is not rediverted to these groups; and further urges the UK Government to use all diplomatic pressure and tools at its disposal to secure the release of Ms Tsurkov.

541Four-day working week

Tabled: 22/03/24 Signatories: 12

John McDonnell

Claudia Webbe

Rachael Maskell

Mick Whitley

Kate Osborne

Caroline Lucas

That this House understands the importance of exploring the possibility of a shorter working week, including a four-day week, which trials have shown can benefit workers, employers, the economy, society and the environment; recognises that companies in the world's biggest four-day week trial saw healthy growth, with an average revenue increase of 34.5 per cent compared to a distinct and comparable six month period, which proved that productivity can be increased through better health and wellbeing and lower staff turnover, and that 92 per cent of the companies that took part in the trial continued with the four-day week after the trial period had ended; recognises further the potential benefits to staff, including those with caring responsibilities, such as significantly reduced childcare costs for parents; notes that, during a trial in South Cambridgeshire Council, staff sickness was reduced by 33 per cent; welcomes the PCS union's campaign for a four-day week pilot in the Department for Environment Food and Rural Affairs and the constructive engagement that the union is having with the Department; and calls on the Department to follow the lead taken by the Scottish Government enterprise agencies and take steps to implement a pilot for a trial period.

54250th anniversary of St Mary’s Primary School, Maryhill

Tabled: 22/03/24 Signatories: 5

Patrick Grady

George Galloway

Allan Dorans

Anne McLaughlin

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates everyone at St Mary's Primary School in Maryhill, Glasgow, on the school reaching the landmark of 50 years of educational and community service to families across Maryhill at its current location on Kilmun Street; understands that St Mary’s Primary School first started delivering denominational education in 1851, and the current building was opened at the present site on 26 February 1974; applauds the efforts of the staff team, who support close to 300 pupils from a diverse range of backgrounds and speaking over 30 languages; commends St Mary’s Primary School for its commitment to Catholic education; recognises the school’s key partnership with pupils, their families and the local parishes, The Immaculate Conception Church, Maryhill, and St Gregory’s Church, Wyndford; commends the school’s efforts within the wider community to develop important partnerships, including the "Introduction to University" at the Maryhill Hub and parent support initiatives with the Maryhill Health Centre; acknowledges the quality of education provided by St Mary’s Primary School staff, both past and present, over many years, including by the school's first headteacher on the current site, Brother Jerome, and its current headteacher, Madeline McGeachie; further recognises that a celebratory mass was held on 18 March 2024, led by His Grace Archbishop Nolan; thanks parents, staff and pupils alike over many years who have worked to achieve the school’s vision to be "united in nurturing our St Mary’s family towards growth and success", and wishes all the community further success for many years to come.

543Parliamentary Contributory Pension Fund and Nestlé

Tabled: 22/03/24 Signatories: 7

Dr Philippa Whitford

George Galloway

Allan Dorans

Anne McLaughlin

Caroline Lucas

Jim Shannon

That this House notes that a coalition of Nestlé shareholders, with a combined $1.68 trillion in assets under management, has filed a resolution asking Nestlé to set a target to shift its sales towards healthier products; notes that the majority of Nestlé’s sales, 70% in the UK, are from foods that are high in fat, salt and sugar; further notes that Nestlé is the biggest food company in the world and therefore has an enormous influence on millions of people’s diets through the products it makes, advertises, and sells; recognises that diet-related ill-health, such as Type 2 diabetes and heart disease, is a major global public health challenge and a burden on public services, the wider economy, governments and, thus, on diversified shareholders; believes investors, including pensions and savings, have a responsibility to invest in a way that protects our planet and supports its people; observes that many pension funds, including the Parliamentary Contributory Pension Fund (PCPF), have large investments in Nestlé; and urges the PCPF to vote in favour of this resolution at, or ahead of, the company’s 2024 Annual General Meeting on 18 April 2024.

544Office of National Statistics and mandatory attendance at workplaces

Tabled: 22/03/24 Signatories: 25

Chris Stephens

John McDonnell

Grahame Morris

Beth Winter

Rebecca Long Bailey

Ian Lavery

That this House expresses support and solidarity with the 1,200 Public and Commercial Services Union (PCS) union members working for the Office of National Statistics (ONS) in Newport, Titchfield, London, Darlington, Manchester and Edinburgh who are currently balloting for industrial action over mandatory attendance at workplaces; notes that there was no previous requirement to spend a specific amount of time in offices but, in late 2023, workers were told that from January 2024 they would need to spend a minimum of 20% of their working time in the workplace, increasing to 40% from April; agrees with the PCS that the post-pandemic arrangements at the ONS have been an example of best practice in flexible and sustainable ways of working and that no evidence-based business case has been made for disrupting this model; further notes that this sudden change has caused anger among staff, already demoralised by the lack of trust and the need for rapid changes to their childcare and other arrangements; and calls on the Government to engage in meaningful talks with the union to arrive at a sensible way forward that accommodates the legitimate concerns of ONS employees.