Mike Crockart today visited Premier Hytemp headquartered in his constituency. Premier Hytemp is an international supply chain company providing services for the ship building industry and the oil and gas sector amongst others. The company has a global presence with offices in Singapore and Canada, as well as involvement in major projects in Angola, Brazil and the Gulf of Mexico.

Commenting after the visit, Mike Crockart said:

“Premier Hytemp is a company with a global presence but its roots are firmly Scottish. It is excellent to see such a good example of Scottish manufacturing.

“At home in Newbridge the company is committed to the future of Scottish engineering and manufacturing. The company is helping to train a new generation of apprentices who will boost Scotland’s world class manufacturing industry . 

“I was fortunate enough to spend some time with Mark, an apprentice at Premier Hytemp, taken on through my 100 training places in 100 days campaign. His experience goes to show the kind of opportunities being made available through the combined efforts of companies like Premier Hytemp and the Government’s £1 billion Youth Contract. 

“It’s good to see business and Government working together to ensure a bright future for our young people and for Scottish manufacturing.”

Accompanying Mr Crockart was Secretary of State for Scotland, Michael Moore. The Secretary of State added:

“I was very pleased to visit Premier Hytemp in Edinburgh today and see the essential contribution they are making to a variety of key engineering sectors not just in Scotland but across the world. 

“During my recent visit to Brazil I promoted the excellence Scotland's Oil and Gas sector has to offer throughout the supply chain.  Scottish companies are at the cutting edge of world technology when it comes to the oil and gas sector.

“The UK Government is firmly committed to promoting our industries at home and using our global influence to help companies such as Premier Hytemp exploit these exciting new opportunities. The recently launched Oil and Gas strategy underlines the Government's commitment.”

Mike Crockart has welcomed further tax cuts for people across the capital in today’s budget.

The Chancellor announced that the personal tax allowance will be increased to £10,000 from next April. This means that since 2010, increases in the allowance introduced by the Coalition Government have given more than 2.2 million Scottish taxpayers a £700 a year tax cut and taken 224,000 people in Scotland out of tax altogether.

The Chancellor also announced that this September’s planned fuel duty increase will be cancelled; benefitting the 2.7m motor vehicle owners in Scotland. The announcement will save a typical motorist £25, a van driver £50 and hauliers £750 per year.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“Today's budget is good news for people across Edinburgh. It reflects the Coalition Government’s commitment to building a stronger economy and a fairer society.

“The raising of the tax free part of a person’s income to £10,000 is a policy taken straight from the Liberal Democrat manifesto and I’m proud that we have delivered on this today.

“Raising the amount that people can earn before they pay tax will benefit thousands of individuals and families across Edinburgh. Next year’s tax cut, on top of the tax cuts they have already received since 2010, amount to £700.

“We are putting more money back in the pockets of hardworking people across the city; making the tax system fairer for those on low and middle incomes.

“There is help for those who want to own their own home and £1bn investment in tax free childcare. This will help 18, 918 families in Edinburgh by saving the typical working family with two children up to £2,400 a year.

“For businesses too today’s budget brought good news: a cut in corporation tax; improved access to finance; and an employment allowance to encourage SMEs to take on more staff. These measures reflect our commitment to boosting growth and creating jobs across Scotland.”

Families in Edinburgh are to get greater financial support for childcare thanks to a major new initiative.

Liberal Democrat analysis shows that the £1bn boost to help parents with childcare costs could benefit around 18,918 families in Edinburgh.

The Coalition Government’s scheme will save the typical working family with two children up to £2,400 a year.

Mike Crockart has today welcomed the plans, which were announced by Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, as “much needed help” for working families.

Commenting, Mike Crockart said:

“Everyone knows that the cost of childcare is a big worry for many families. Almost a quarter of employed mothers say they would like to work longer hours but can’t do so because of the cost of childcare.

“Making sure all families, and mothers in particular, can afford to work is important to help build a stronger economy as well as deliver a fairer society. This has been an absolute priority for Nick Clegg and the Liberal Democrats and I am delighted we are able to give parents this much needed help.

“An extra £1,200 for each child will make a real difference to families in Edinburgh and families across the country just like you, who find it constantly worrying about how to juggle the family budget.

“Extending support for working families on Universal Credit will also make sure it is worth working extra hours even if you’re on low wages.”

1. It will be phased in from autumn 2015 and will ultimately be open to around 2.5 million families with children under 12. From the first year of operation, all children under five will be eligible, initially opening the scheme to 1.3 million families, and the scheme will build up over time to include children under 12.

2. To be eligible, families will have all parents in work, with each earning less than £150,000 a year, and will not already receive support through tax credits and later, Universal Credit. They will receive 20% – equivalent to the basic rate of tax – of their yearly childcare costs up to £6,000 per child.

3. The new tax-free childcare scheme will massively extend support compared to the current system of Employer Supported Childcare (ESC). ESC will continue for current members if they want to stay in it, but new claimants will get support through the new tax-free offer. ESC will also continue to be open to new joiners until the tax-free childcare scheme is available.  Eligible ESC recipients may choose to move into the new tax-free childcare scheme if they wish, but will not be able to receive both.

4. For a family with two children, the new offer will be worth more than double the amount of a single claim for ESC, and will be open to around five times as many families. 

5. For parents who currently receive childcare support through tax credits and in due course Universal Credit, the Government will increase childcare support to improve work incentives and ensure that it is worthwhile to work up to full-time hours for low and middle income parents. An additional £200m of support will be provided within Universal Credit, which is equivalent to covering 85% of childcare costs for households qualifying for the Universal Credit childcare element where the lone parent or both earners in a couple pay income tax. The details of how to provide this support will be determined as part of the consultation on the scheme for parents not in receipt of Universal Credit, to ensure the two schemes operate effectively together.

6. The new tax-free offer will be phased in from autumn 2015, partly funded by the phasing out of ESC. The £200m Universal Credit offer is planned to be phased in from April 2016 as childcare support moves from tax credits into Universal Credit and will be funded from within social security budgets at the time. Details will be set out in future spending reviews.

7. The Government will shortly consult on the detail of the new tax-free childcare scheme, including on how employers could continue to play a role in supporting their employees with childcare costs within the new system.

Mike Crockart has highlighted the growing opportunities available for young people who want to gain training through an apprenticeship.

A debate in the Commons for National Apprenticeship Week saw MPs from across the house praise the ever increasing number of apprenticeships being offered and the fact that they offer an alternative path into some top flight careers.

Mike Crockart, who is working with the charity Intern Aware to bring an end to unpaid internships has already employed two apprentices in his office and plans to offer more positions.

Commenting after the debate Mike Crockart said:

“Apprenticeships have never been more important.  The challenging economic climate means that competition for jobs is greater than ever. It’s an employers’ market and many are looking for quite specific sector experience, but that power comes with responsibility – a duty to think innovatively about job creation.

“I recently met Scottish entrepreneur Sir William Haughey whose Youth with Hope programme looks to motivate and inspire organisations of all capacities to play their part in addressing the needs and aspirations of the young.

“His flagship idea “green champions” sees young people employed by large companies to specifically promote sustainable building management, and energy and resource efficiency practices. Given that 40% of the UK’s carbon emissions are down to the way in which our buildings are lit, heated and run, it is easy to see how the green champions could soon pay their own way.

“It is schemes like this which will change the fortunes of hundreds, hopefully thousands of young lives across a whole range of industries. The Government’s £1 billion Youth Contract has been instrumental in changing attitudes towards apprenticeships and in creating more places but employers also need to play their part.”

Sir William Haughey, founder of Youth with Hope added:

“It’s great to see apprenticeships being raised at Westminster. For too long the focus has been on higher education, rather than offering a different but equally positive and fulfilling path.

“The debate and the number of MPs who took part is a reflection of what an important issue this is and I am sure that our call for more training places will continue apace. I hope that Members from across the House will go back to their constituencies and push employers to think about taking on an apprentice.

“Young people should hope for a bright future: with a little imagination and hard work we can ensure that that hope becomes a reality.”

• Scotland’s Apprenticeship week, which is run by Skills Development Scotland, begins on Monday 20th May.
• More information about Youth With Hope is available at http://youthwithhope.co.uk/

Following today’s statement by Defence Secretary Philip Hammond on the Army Basing Plan Mike Crockart who fought to keep the army operating from the capital said:

“Today’s announcement is a welcome retreat by Mr Hammond; I am delighted that Scotland’s army will continue to call Edinburgh home.

“It was clear from the start that the argument in favour of a ‘super-barracks’ was flawed. I asked the Government nearly 100 questions ranging from the effect on local communities to the cost of the ‘super-barracks’ project and the Defence Secretary failed to provide me with any detailed answers.

“Army personnel and their families based on the south side of the capital who had been given little detail about the possibility of rebasing will be breathing a sigh of relief today as the uncertainty about their future is lifted. Dreghorn and Redford barracks  will remain part of the army’s estate in Edinburgh and for these families as well as local schools and businesses today’s is good news.

“Craigiehall base, which has housed the Scottish army’s headquarters for many years, will sadly close with the loss of around 100 civilian jobs. The loss of experienced and dedicated individuals along with their valuable skills and expertise is a mistake and a decision I have fought against. Our focus must now be to ensure that each and every person affected by that closure gets the support they need to move on.

“On the whole today’s decision is good news. Edinburgh has been home to Scotland’s regiments for centuries and it is right that they will continue to be a part of our capital and of our communities into the future.”

Mike Crockart is encouraging business and parents to have their say on the Government’s plans to improve the current system of parental leave.

Business Minister Jo Swinson launched a consultation on plans for shared parental leave and flexible working yesterday (25th February). The consultation will influence how the Government legislates on this issue in the Children and Families Bill 2013.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“I am glad that the Government is consulting on our plans for shared parental leave. The proposed arrangements will make the system more flexible for hard working families across the City.

“I know that many families would like to be able to make decisions on childcare based on what works for them. The measures proposed by the Government will do exactly that and enable parents to act in the best interests of their family.

“I recently held an event for female business owners and problems with childcare was one of the issues which came up time and again. Our consultation for shared parental leave and flexible working gives people the opportunity for their views and concerns to be heard loud and clear.

“That’s why I’m encouraging parents and business across Edinburgh to take part in the consultation.”

You can find let the Government have your views on the consultation by completing a short survey. The main consultation page can be found on the Government's website.

Mike Crockart, is encouraging veterans across the capital to apply for the new Arctic Convoy and Bomber Command awards.

The launch of the new awards follows Sir John Holmes’ independent medal review and an announcement by the Prime Minister last December that these awards should be made in recognition of the great bravery of those who were part of the convoys and those who served Bomber Command.

Her Majesty The Queen approved designs for the new Arctic Star medal and Bomber Command clasp which means that production of the awards will begin this week. It is estimated that up to a quarter of a million veterans, and the families of those who have sadly died, will apply to receive the honours.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“It is only right that the bravery and dedication of those who sailed with the Russian convoys and served in the Bomber Command is to be recognised by these honours.

“Many veterans across the capital risked their lives to secure the freedom that we now enjoy and I am delighted that they will now receive the recognition they deserve for their service and their sacrifice.

“I want to encourage all of those who were involved in either campaign, or whose family members were, to make sure they apply for the award.”

For more information visit the Veterans UK website.

Mike Crockart has announced that he will be holding e-surgeries.

The first e-surgery is scheduled for 28th March from 5pm to 6pm. Anyone wanting to schedule an appointment will need to download Skype, the free software package, and is encouraged to contact Mike’s constituency office to schedule a time for their e-surgery.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“I know that people are busy and that often they can’t make it along to my surgeries. I want to be as accessible as possible for people who wish to let me now their views and for people who need my help.

“For busy parents, business owners and those who live in the more rural parts of my constituency the e-surgeries offer a quick and convenient way to get in touch with me. At the moment those in some rural parts may struggle to secure the broadband speed required for the software, but I am confident that my campaign for better broadband will change that.

“If you would like any more information on the e-surgery or would like an appointment please call the office on 0131 339 0339.”

Mike Crockart has welcomed the publication of the Children and Families Bill which will allow new parents to share 52 weeks of paid leave.

The Bill, published by the UK Government last week, includes measures which will enable new parents to choose how they divide the 52 weeks of paid leave between them.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

“Families throughout the capital will benefit from the greater flexibility introduced by this Bill; letting parents choose how they will spend valuable time with their little ones.

“It’s essential that the Government does all it can to help parents to balance their family life and work life in a way that works for them. That is why I am delighted that the Lib Dems have been able to deliver this policy.”

Under the new system:
• Employed mothers will still be entitled to 52 weeks of maternity leave as a day one right
• Mothers can choose to end their maternity leave after the initial two week recovery period; working parents can then decide how they want to share the remaining leave
• Fathers will gain a new right to take unpaid leave to attend two antenatal appointments
• There will be new statutory payment for parents on shared parental leave with the same qualifying requirements that currently apply to statutory maternity and paternity pay
• Those who have adopted a child will be entitled to the same pay and leave as birth parents.

Flexible working
The Government wants to remove the cultural expectation that flexible working only has benefits for parents and careers, allowing individuals to manage their work alongside other commitments. This will improve the UK labour market by providing more diverse working patterns. The new system will:
• Extend the right to request flexible working to all employees
• Remove the current statutory procedure for considering requests. Instead employers will have a duty to consider all requests in a reasonable manner.

Mike Crockart used today’s Questions to Business Ministers to highlight the thriving life sciences sector in the capital. This comes on the same day that life sciences firm BioCity Scotland in Lanarkshire and Dundee University beat off international competition to win funding for a new screening centre.

As Ministers took questions from MPs concerned about the state of the life sciences sector in some parts of the UK, Mr Crockart took the opportunity to remind Members that the life sciences sector in Scotland is flourishing.

Speaking after his question, Mr Crockart said:

“The Scottish life sciences sector is worth £3 billion and employs around 32,000 people across Scotland.

“Edinburgh’s BioQuarter welcomed three new companies to the area last week, which demonstrates the strength of the sector in Scotland.

“I was pleased that the Minister recognised the life sciences in Scotland, mentioning in particular Edinburgh and the medical research being carried out in Dundee. Scotland is home to some of the leaders in the field and their valuable contribution to the UK sector should be recognised.”

Mike Crockart MP, this week met Jo Swinson, Parliamentary Under Secretary of State for Employment relations, consumer and postal affairs to discuss the National Minimum Wage and its impact on young people.

Commenting after the meeting Mr Crockart said:

“My campaign to secure 100 training places for young people in Edinburgh was committed to finding modern apprenticeships and paid training places for young people and I’ve continued to build on this work by encouraging companies across the UK to take advantage of the Government’s wage incentive schemes instead of offering unpaid internships. 

“I am determined to do all that I can to help young people to find work, but I am equally committed to the principle of a fair day’s wage for a fair day’s work. For smaller companies this may mean paying the minimum wage to interns, but for others it will mean adopting the Living Wage.

“The position of ‘intern’ has no legal status in this country, but has developed over recent years to create a grey area between ‘volunteer’ and ‘worker’ in employment legislation. It is already illegal not to pay the National Minimum Wage where a person is working set hours with specific duties but companies are allowed to advertise unpaid positions. This is absolute nonsense and we need to close the loophole.

“I am working closely with Intern Aware to tackle the problem of unpaid internships. Offering placements which provide valuable experience and opportunities without paying the going rate excludes people from poorer backgrounds from gaining all important industry know-how.”

Gus Baker of Intern Aware also attended the meeting and added:

“We need to change the culture where unpaid internships are deemed acceptable and make sure employers know the exact difference between a worker and an intern. 

“Defined hours and responsibilities mean a person is entitled to the national minimum wage; the sooner businesses and companies are aware they are breaking the law the sooner we can put a stop to this trend and make sure young people have equality of opportunity and a fair chance no matter what their background is.”

The Government has today published details of its forestry and woodland policy in response to the report from the Independent Panel on Forestry.

A new, independent public body will hold in trust the nation’s publicly-owned forests for future generations. Alongside the continuing work of the Forestry Commission, this new body will own, maintain and safeguard our forests on behalf of the public.

Last July the Government confirmed that the Public Forest Estate in England will remain in public ownership after the Liberal Democrats’ campaign. This followed on from a similar successful campaign in Scotland in 2008/9.

Up to 100 jobs at the Forestry Commission’s Edinburgh offices were threatened by the plans to privatise the Public Forest Estate.

Commenting Mike Crockart MP whose constituency is home to the Forestry Commission’s HQ at Corstorphine said:

“Today’s statement reaffirms the Government’s commitment to keep the forest estate in public ownership for future generations to enjoy.

“The Minister has acknowledged the potential that our forests have to create jobs and growth and I welcome the news that the forestry industry is working on an action plan to ensure that potential is unlocked.

“The Government has increased the Forestry Commission’s budget by £3.5m next year specifically to make up for lost income from sales of woodland. A further £2m has been allocated in recognition of the importance of implementing the commitments made by the Minister today as well as to address the pressures arising from the Chalara dieback of ash outbreak.

“£0.5 million of additional Forestry Commission funding and up to £4 million additional funding from research councils is also available for specialists to carry out in-depth research into tree diseases.

“Whilst the future shape of the Forestry Commission is still to be considered by Defra following the recommendations of the Independent Panel on Forestry’s report I am confident that the Government’s commitment to our forests and the extra funding in place will secure the future of the Forestry Commission’s Corstorphine base.

“There is a huge amount of talent, expertise and experience within the Forestry Commission’s Edinburgh team and I will continue to push Ministers to ensure that these skilled individuals are central to the future of the Commission ensuring the security of Edinburgh based roles now and for the future.”

• The Minister’s written statement can be found here: http://www.parliament.uk/documents/commons-vote-office/January_2013/31-1-13/7.DECC-Govtpolicywoodlandsforestry.pdf
• The full policy statement can be found on the Defra website at: http://www.defra.gov.uk/publications/files/pb13871-forestry-policy-statement.pdf

Mike Crockart MP is backing calls for 16 and 17 year olds in the capital and across the UK to be given the vote after the House of Commons passed a motion calling for a change in the law last week.

A commitment to extending the franchise to people aged 16 and over was included in the Liberal Democrat manifesto ahead of the 2010 UK general election.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“Young people have an enormous amount to offer society and I think it is right that they should have the vote.

“Considering that 16 and 17 year olds can get married, pay tax and join the army it’s deeply unfair that they are not included in the democratic process.

“The Liberal Democrats are committed to creating a fairer society and we believe that as part of this, 16 and 17 years olds should be allowed to vote in all elections and referenda.”

The text of the motion tabled by Lib Dem MP Stephen Williams and passed on Thursday 24th January 2013: That this House believes that the age of eligibility for voting in all elections and referenda in the United Kingdom should be reduced to 16.

The Green Deal is the Coalition Government’s new initiative to transform Britain’s homes. With buildings in Britain among the least efficient in the world, the Green Deal gives homes and businesses a new way of paying for energy efficient improvements such as insulation and new heating systems.

There are 45 different types of improvements currently available under the Green Deal, helping people warm up their homes and pay for some or all of the improvements over time through their electricity bill.

Welcoming the launch, Mike Crockart, said:

“Families throughout the UK are concerned at the cost of energy bills and the best way people can protect themselves from future increases is to use less energy by making their homes more energy efficient.

“Millions of homes do not have full double-glazing. More than half do not have enough insulation or an efficient condensing boiler. Most do not even have proper heating controls. Homes and businesses across Britain are wasting energy and money.

“This is where the Green Deal comes in; it gives people a new way to pay for home improvements which improve energy efficiency, letting you pay for some or all of the cost of energy-saving property improvements, like insulation, over time through savings on your energy bills.

“The Green Deal is also great for business, creating a new market and new jobs.

“You can get more information on The Green Deal by calling the Energy Saving Advice Service on 0300 123 1234 or visiting www.gov.uk/greendeal”.

• 8 million households could benefit from solid wall insulation
• 4 million households could benefit from cavity insulation
• 60,000 jobs are expected to be supported in the insulation sector alone by 2015 – up from 26,000 in 2011
• £3.5 million of funding to training in key Green Deal skills
• £270 a year could be saved if a typical three bedroom semi-detached house installed just solid wall insulation
• 38% of the UK’s total greenhouse gas emissions come from leaky buildings

Commenting on the publication of the Marriage (Same Sex Couples) Bill Mike Crockart MP said:

"The publication and introduction of this Bill is a significant step forward in the Liberal Democrats' campaign for equality.

"We are building a stronger economy in a fairer society, and crucial to that is equal rights for all.

"Equal marriage will strengthen the important tradition of marriage in our society, ensuring it remains a vibrant institution well into the 21st century and beyond.

"Previous governments have shied away from taking action on equal marriage, but the Liberal Democrats are tackling the inequalities faced by the gay, lesbian, bisexual and transgender community head on. The state should not bar a couple who want to marry just because of their gender and the state should not stop a religious body that wishes to do so from conducting same-sex marriages.

"I am pleased that the Scottish Government has followed our lead on this issue after a shaky start. Equal marriage is the right and natural step towards the modern, tolerant and progressive Scotland which we all want to see."

Farmers and suppliers in Edinburgh and the Lothians will now have someone fighting their corner against the big supermarkets, with the appointment of a new independent Groceries Code Adjudicator by Liberal Democrat Consumer and Competition Minister, Jo Swinson.

As Adjudicator, Christine Tacon will be responsible for enforcing the Groceries Supply Code of Practice, which regulates interactions between the ten largest supermarkets and farmers and suppliers. 

This will ensure a fairer deal for farmers and suppliers in Edinburgh and the Lothians, who can complain to the Adjudicator if they are unfairly treated by supermarkets. If a breach of the code is found, the Adjudicator will be able to make recommendations against a supermarket or impose fines.

Welcoming the appointment, Mike Crockart said:

“Farmers and suppliers in Edinburgh and across the Lothians are in an unfair fight with the big supermarkets. Many receive unfair prices and are struggling to stay in business. This damages our local community and our local economy.

“A vibrant community needs farmers and suppliers like ours and they deserve a fair deal. That’s why I and other Liberal Democrats have long campaigned to establish a Grocery Code of Practice and an Adjudicator to enforce it.

“To build a stronger economy, we need to make it fairer for everyone too. That’s why I am so pleased with today’s announcement because it means that our campaign is turning into a reality.”

Commenting further, Jo Swinson said:

“For too long, the balance of power in the grocery market has been in favour of large supermarkets. This has seen many farmers and suppliers receive unfair prices, year on year, with many struggling to stay in business.

“The Grocery Code Adjudicator will ensure farmers and suppliers get a fair deal. It is an important part of the Liberal Democrat commitment to building a stronger economy in a fairer society.

“Christine Tacon has a wide range of experience in the food, retail and farming industry and so this announcement is a real milestone. Her knowledge of the sector will be of huge benefit and help rural communities who deserve a fair deal for their hard work.”

1. The Groceries Code Adjudicator Bill, which will formally create the office of the Adjudicator, is currently before Parliament. Christine Tacon will act as Adjudicator-Designate until the office of the Adjudicator is established by law, when she will formally take up the four year appointment.

2. In her new role, Ms Tacon will be responsible for enforcing the Groceries Supply Code of Practice, which regulates interactions between the ten largest supermarkets with an annual turnover of £1bn and their direct suppliers. 
                                                                                                                                                            3. In addition, the Adjudicator will have the power to launch investigations into suspected breaches of the Code, including those arising from confidential complaints from any source. If she finds evidence of a breach, the Adjudicator will be able to make recommendations against a supermarket, require them to publish details of their breach, or, in the most extreme cases, to impose fines. She will also have the power to arbitrate disputes between large supermarkets and their direct suppliers.

Commenting following the triggering of Cold Weather payments in some areas of the capital, Mike Crockart, said:
 
“It has been extremely cold in the capital recently and, while I don’t welcome the freezing temperatures, I certainly welcome news of this extra support to help people to meet the cost of their additional heating.
 
“Back in 2010, the Coalition Government reversed Labour’s plans to reduce the Payment to £8.50 and we made it £25 permanently.

“The payment helps to protect the most vulnerable in our society and the news that the payment has been triggered in some postcodes in and around Edinburgh will make a tangible difference to people as they turn up their heating to keep warm during this cold spell.

“There should be no need to make a claim, but people who think they may be entitled to the payment but do not receive it should contact the Department for Work and Pensions.”

• The trigger is for the period 14/1/2013 to 20/1/2013 across the following Edinburgh postcodes EH11, EH12, EH2, EH27, EH28, EH29, EH3, EH30, EH4, EH5, EH52, EH53, EH6.

• Cold Weather Payments are designed to help people who are in receipt of certain benefits with their additional heating costs during winter. These benefits are Income Support, Employment and Support Allowance (income-related), income-based Jobseeker's Allowance and Pension Credit.

• Payments of £25 are made for each seven day period of very cold weather between 1 November and 31 March. Last winter 5.2 million individual payments were made in the UK worth a total of £129.2 million.

• Payments are made automatically to those entitled to them.

Mike Crockart has today welcomed the announcement that Changeworks has been awarded £414,889 from the UK Government’s Collective Switching Fund.

The £5 million UK Government fund has made awards to local councils and third sector organisations across the UK to enable collective purchasing and switching schemes to be set up. The cash boost will also help to increase public awareness of the potential for reducing energy bills through collective switching.

Changeworks is working in partnership with 5 Councils in the South East of Scotland, including the City of Edinburgh Council, and will use the money to establish a collective switching scheme “South East Scotland Together”.

Commenting on the announcement Mr Crockart said: 

“This is excellent news for consumers in Edinburgh and demonstrates the UK Government’s commitment to helping people to reduce their fuel bills and ensure that they get value for money.

“I wrote to City of Edinburgh Council last year to encourage an application to the fund so I am delighted that the Changeworks partnership bid was successful. 

“Collective switching is an innovative way for consumers to group together and use market power to negotiate lower energy bills; so it seems fitting that a number of Scottish Councils and third sector organisations have worked together to secure the funding. 

“I will do what I can to promote the scheme in Edinburgh and would encourage anyone interested in collective switching to take a look at the Changeworks website at www.changeworks.org.uk where there are also lots of helpful tips about reducing the energy you use.” 
 
• Changeworks’ partners are Fife Council, Edinburgh Council, Midlothian Council, Scottish Borders Council, East Lothian Council and Kingdom Housing Association
 
• DECC Collective Switching Fund 2012-2013: http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/funding-support/fund-opportunities/6772-cheaper-energy-together-collective-switching-compe.pdf

• Full list of Awards: http://www.decc.gov.uk/assets/decc/11/funding-support/fund-opportunities/7473-decc-local-authority-competition-201213-projects-.pdf

• Full DECC announcement: http://www.decc.gov.uk/en/content/cms/news/pn13_007/pn13_007.aspx
 

Mike Crockart is Member of a Committee which has today published a report critical of the SNP’s handling of the referendum issue.

The Commons Scottish Affairs Committee of which Mr Crockart is a member has welcomed the agreement between the UK and Scottish Governments on a Section 30 Order to allow the Scottish Parliament to hold a referendum on whether Scotland should remain part of the United Kingdom or not. But the report also sets out the Committee’s concerns that in a number of aspects of the process the Scottish Government appears to be pursuing partisan advantage, rather than seeking consensus.

Commenting the Edinburgh West MP said:

“This is the biggest question to face Scotland for 300 years. That’s why it is absolutely crucial that the Referendum Bill brought to the Scottish Parliament is built on the widest possible consensus.

“The Scottish Government must act responsibly and ensure that they do not pursue partisan advantage.  The Committee has previously raised concerns about the question option being pursued by the SNP but they refuse to compromise and in spite of agreeing to the impartial oversight of the Electoral Commission, the Scottish Government has refused to commit to be bound by the decisions of this neutral referee.

“Both the UK and Scottish Governments have been clear that they will respect the decision which the people of Scotland make about our country’s future. And those on both sides of the argument deserve an even handed and fully transparent process.”

The main findings of the Committee:
• that decisions in the Scottish Parliament should be on the basis of wide consensus, rather than a majority being used to ram through partisan choices
• the decisions of an impartial third party, in this case the Electoral Commission, should be accepted (unless an alternative consensus exists)
• there can be no question of delay in the referendum date beyond 2014
• questions of who will be allowed to vote must be decided as soon as possible
• the rules around donations should follow the PPERA framework, and no foreign donations should be allowed

Mike Crockart, used today’s Prime Minister’s Questions to highlight broadband investment in the capital.

In spite of Edinburgh City Council receiving over £10.5 million from the UK Government last year to fund superfast rollout and other broadband investment in the city, the Council’s lengthy procurement process means that there will be a 12 month delay before any work gets underway.

Speaking after asking the Prime Minister what he could do to speed up the Council’s procurement process, Mr Crockart said:

“Further investment in our digital infrastructure is essential for the capital’s economy and jobs.

“Businesses large and small depend on quick reliable broadband for their business; but in parts of the rural west of Edinburgh, like Kirkliston and Ratho, residents and business owners face incredibly slow, patchy broadband.

“My better broadband campaign has ensured that the exchange in Kirkliston will get the upgrade it needs, but the Council’s drawn-out procurement process means that no improvement will be seen until 2015.

“This is an unacceptably long time for people to wait when the funding is already secured. We should be doing all we can to support businesses and entrepreneurs and quick reliable broadband is essential for success in the 21st century.”

The full text of Mr Crockart’s question:
Can I thank the coalition Government for allocating £10.7 million to Edinburgh’s Super-Connected City bid. This will revolutionise home and business use in parts of my constituency like Kirkliston and Ratho.  Unfortunately, my constituents are immensely frustrated at Edinburgh Council’s year-long procurement process. What can he do to help speed this up?

A new independent pubs Adjudicator will be set up by the Coalition Government to help struggling landlords suffering from unfair practices in the industry, Liberal Democrat Business Secretary, Vince Cable has announced.

The Adjudicator will enforce a new statutory Code, which will oversee the relationship between publicans and large pub companies (pubcos). It will ensure publicans get a fair deal on rent and the prices they pay for beer.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“Pubs are a cornerstone of our community and many have been struggling in recent years in Edinburgh West.

“For too long, large pub companies have been taking more than their fair share of the profits of their publicans and made life harder still for our locals.

“With Liberal Democrats committed to building a stronger economy, in a fairer society, it’s great credit to Vince Cable that he has taken action where the Labour Government had so abysmally failed.

“I’ll be raising my glass to the new Adjudicator in my local very soon.”

Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Save the Pub Group, Liberal Democrat MP Greg Mulholland has long campaigned for a fairer deal for pubs. Welcoming the move, he said:

“This is great news for pubs, pubco publicans and customers and is a huge boost in terms of the Coalition Government delivering the promise to be a pro-pub Government. This will at last enshrine in law that a pubco licensee is no worse off than a Free House licensee.

“The latest attempt at self-regulation has been a farce. There was a deliberate attempt to avoid the central problem of pubcos taking more than is fair from pub profits and that is why it’s a great credit to Vince Cable and the Coalition Government who have finally taken the necessary action.

“Liberal Democrats will be continuing to work in the Coalition Government to ensure tied pubco licensees can take their fair share of the profit and have a much brighter future.”

Commenting further, Business Secretary, Vince Cable said:

“Some pubcos are exploiting and squeezing their tenants by unfair practices and a focus on short-term profits. This has led real hardship for some publicans, who are going to the wall as they struggle to survive on tiny margins. 

“While the Labour government oversaw three Select Committee reviews into these problems, they only acknowledged the need for action in their last few months in office. The Coalition Government is now taking action.

“Last year we gave the pubcos one last chance to change their behaviour but it is clear that the self-regulation approach was not enough so we are changing the law.

“These measures will give hard-working publicans a fairer chance at running their pub so they can continue to serve their communities.”

• Four Select Committee reviews have highlighted the problems with the current system.
• Most recently in 2011, the Business, Innovation and Skills Select Committee recommended the introduction of a statutory code, with a genuine free of tie option, based on an open market rent review.
• The proposed Adjudicator will have the power to investigate and deal with disputes between pub companies and publicans and have the power to impose fines in certain cases.
• In particular, the proposed Code would prevent abuses of the beer tie, which obliges publicans to sell particular types of beer. It would enshrine the fundamental principle that ‘a tied licensee should be no worse off than a free-of-tie-licensee’ which will ensure a level playing field is maintained in the pub sector.
• The proposed Adjudicator will be based on the model of the widely-welcomed Groceries Code Adjudicator, and will have the power and function to:
  a. arbitrate individual disputes between large pub companies and publicans;
  b. carry out investigations based on complaints that have been received, during which they could require information from pub companies;
  c. impose sanctions where an investigation finds that a pub company has breached the Code – including, in the case of severe breaches, financial penalties;
  d. publish guidance on when and how investigations will proceed and how these enforcement powers will be used;
  e. advise pub companies and publicans on the Code;
  f. report annually on his or her work; and
  g. recommend changes to the Code.
• The proposed Code will be based on the existing Industry Framework Code but will be strengthened to include an overarching ‘fair dealing’ provision, as well as the principle referring to the beer tie which states that ‘a tied licensee should be no worse off than a free-of-tie-licensee’. This will be particularly important for rents, as the consultation will propose that guidance issued by the Royal Institute of Chartered Surveyors be interpreted in light of this principle.
• The Code is expected to apply to all pub companies which own more than 500 tied leases, exempting smaller companies so that only those with the greatest market power are targeted. This is due to evidence indicating that smaller companies have been behaving responsibly, although this will be explored further during the consultation.
• The Government will launch the formal consultation process on the proposed Code and Adjudicator in the spring.

 The Youth Contract is a £1 billion package of support from the Department of Work and Pensions (DWP) to help young unemployed people between 18 and 24 years old prepare for work and find a job.

Wage incentives form part of the Contract and allow employers to claim up to £2,275 when they take on a young person who has been out of work for some time; helping businesses to cover the costs of national insurance contributions or fund extra training or supervision whilst giving a young person an opportunity to work.

Wage incentives were previously available for the long term unemployed through the Work Programme. The incentives were available to young people who had been on unemployment benefit for nine months or more than six months in three unemployment hotspot areas in Scotland (Clackmannanshire, North Ayrshire and West Dunbartonshire).

From today [17 December] the incentives will be available nationwide after six months.  DWP is continuing to provide additional support to those in the three hotspot areas by making extra Jobcentre adviser time available.   For the first three months, young jobseekers will get an average of 80 minutes extra time each fortnight to help them prepare for and find work.

Commenting Mike Crockart said:

“This is a very welcome extension to the Youth Contract. Wage incentives kicking in after 6 months instead of 9 will help more young people in Edinburgh to find work.

“I know from my campaign to find 100 local training opportunities for 100 young people that there are a lot of employers out there who are keen to take someone but simply cannot afford to.

“The wage incentive encourages employers to think again about taking on a young person. I have taken on apprentices in my office so I know, first hand, the value which they can add to a workplace.

“Each opportunity given by an employer has the potential to be life-changing for a young person.

“This extension of wage incentives shows the Government’s determination to support Scotland’s young people in today’s challenging job market.”

Speaking in the House of Commons on Thursday  Mike Crockart requested that Parliamentary time be given to a debate on improving access to affordable childcare for single parent families. 

The charity Gingerbread recently launched a new three year campaign ‘Make it work for single parents’, to ensure that single parents are able to access the sorts of jobs they need to give the best opportunities to their children.

The campaign revolves around a list of realistic action points which would make employment work for single parents. The task list includes goals such as getting 250,000 more single parents into work by 2020 and measures to unlock single parents’ skills and potential. 

Commenting on the campaign Gingerbread Chief Executive, Fiona Weir, said:

“Getting single parents into work is vital if we’re going to tackle child poverty, reduce the number of children growing up in homes where no one works, and cut the cost of the benefits bill. Yet few effective steps to help single parents, who are desperate to lift their families out of poverty and be a role model for their children, have been taken. 

“Times are tough for lots of families at the moment, and the multiple barriers to work that single parent families face are shared in part by millions of other families too. By getting childcare, flexible working and in-work support right for single parents, government, childcare providers and employers can get it right for all parents.”

 Mr Crockart added:

“We know that single parents throughout the UK want to work and build the very best future for their children. At the moment, high childcare costs and a lack of flexible working opportunities mean that holding down a job as a single parent is incredibly tough. The Government needs to support these hard working single parents by encouraging companies to provide more flexible working environments which fit around the demands of raising a family. 

“If we want to reach the target set by Gingerbread to get 250,000 more single parents into work by 2020 then we also need to look again at the cost of childcare. It is vital that we improve access to affordable and flexible childcare to make getting back into work a realistic goal for every single parent in the UK.

“The Government has recently made progress on flexible working by  announcing new working arrangements for all employees and flexible shared parental leave for couples; but we can and should go further to provide real help for single parents.”
 
• You can find out about Gingerbread’s campaign on the Gingerbread website

Mike Crockart has today questioned the Energy Secretary, Ed Davey MP, on whether or not an agreement has been reached for the Green Investment Bank to help fund the Green Deal.

The Green Deal which will launch in January is designed to help people throughout the UK increase the energy efficiency of their properties – both residential and business.

The Deal will eliminate the need to pay upfront for energy efficiency measures and instead will let customers pay for some or all of the improvements over time through their electricity bill. Repayments will be no more than the typical savings a household should make in energy costs.

Commenting on the exchange Mr Crockart said:

“The Green Deal is the most ambitious home insulation programme the UK has ever seen. It will help people save money on energy bills, reduce carbon emissions and create thousands of green jobs.

“The Secretary of State agreed with me that the best way to reduce energy bills is to reduce energy use. I know that energy bills are a real strain on family finances at the moment, my constituents email me about it every day, so I very much welcome the Coalition Government’s commitment to helping people reduce their energy bill whilst also helping to protect the environment.”

“Edinburgh’s Green Investment Bank is a key player in moving the UK to a low-carbon economy. With an initial £3 billion of funding to invest in green projects the Bank can play a large part in working to help consumers reduce their energy bills.”

Local MP, Mike Crockart, has welcomed the news that the Forth is set to benefit from £230,000 of UK funding to develop access to wetland habitats in the area.

The money comes from a multi-million pound fund to regenerate Coastal Communities. The UK-wide scheme was announced last year to support the economic development of coastal areas and projects in Scotland were invited to bid for a share of a pot worth nearly £4 million.

Commenting on the news, Mr Crockart said:

“I am delighted that communities around the Forth will benefit from this £230,000 investment in our coastal communities. The funding will go to develop access to wetland habitats around the Forth Estuary, creating much needed apprenticeship and job opportunities.

“This is another example of the UK Government investing in Scotland’s future. The funding is a welcome boost to our local economies and will create opportunities for young people. With another £4 million on offer in 2013 the Coastal Communities Fund will continue to support projects around Scotland’s coast.

“In last week’s Autumn Statement the Chancellor announced more than £300 million of new money for the Scottish Government in addition to the £1 billion it has already received since the spending review. All of this is cash which can be put into other projects to boost Scotland’s economy and help with job creation; I hope that the Scottish Government demonstrates the same commitment to supporting communities around Scotland when spending this multi-million pound investment.”

19 projects were selected on the basis that they would promote sustainable economic growth and jobs in their communities, and offer training or innovative business opportunities for the local area.

Mike Crockart called on DWP Minister, Esther McVey, to learn from the mistakes of the Work Capability Assessment process as he was called to ask his third question in the Commons this morning.

Mr Crockart was called after the Minister made a statement on Personal Independence Payments assessments (PIP).

Commenting after the exchange Mr Crockart said:

“I have had a lot of constituents contact me about the problems they have had with the Work Capability Assessment so I was pleased to be able to raise the issue again today.

“The Minister recognised the flaws with the current WCA assessment system and gave some assurances that lessons would be learned for the PIP assessments.

“Many people are concerned about the transition from Disability Living Allowance (DLA) to PIP and it is up to the Government to do everything possible to make sure that the transition is as easy as possible.

“The Government must be committed to getting this process right first time; I do not want to see individuals and families caused unnecessary stress by needing to appeal decisions.” 

Commenting after the Chancellor’s Autumn Statement, Mike Crockart, said:

“There is a good news for Scotland in today’s Statement.

“21,000 Scots on low incomes will be taken out of tax altogether next April. This brings the total number of people in Scotland not paying any income tax to 183,000 with around 2 million more receiving a tax cut. 1m of our pensioners will also benefit from a weekly increase to their pension of £2.70 from April next year.

“We have listened to the concerns of motorists and industry and Scotland’s 2.7 million vehicle owners will benefit from the decision to cancel the fuel duty rise planned for January. This will save the average driver £40 a year and hauliers around £1200.

“We’re helping small and medium enterprises across Scotland with a significant increase in the Annual Investment Allowance. From January the Allowance covering investment in qualifying plant and machinery will rise from £25,000 to £250,000 for two years; helping Scottish businesses to invest and expand.

“We’ve also seen more Scottish cities benefit from UK Government money to invest in digital infrastructure. Edinburgh, and specifically my constituents in the rural west of Edinburgh, are already set to benefit from the Government’s Urban Broadband Fund which will upgrade the Kirkliston exchange, making it fit for purpose in the 21st century. The Scottish Government has £280 million available to use on digital infrastructure, but despite promising much has failed to come up with any credible plan.

“With today’s Statement The Scottish Government will receive more than £300 million of new money in addition to the £1 billion it has already received since the spending review. All of this is cash which can be put into projects to boost Scotland’s economy and job creation.”

Edinburgh’s Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart, has supported a Ten Minute Rule Bill entitled Internships (Regulation and Conditions) Bill proposed by Hazel Blears.

The Bill seeks to ban advertising long-term unpaid internships. It is hoped that a ban on advertising such positions will encourage companies to pay their interns, making them accessible to people from all backgrounds.

Competitive fields like the media, fashion, and finance are particularly prone to offering young people long stints as unpaid interns. Whilst the experience is excellent, the lack of paid work means that the system favours those from wealthier backgrounds. Making all long-term internships paid would make them more accessible to those who cannot afford to work for free, and would be of benefit to those who live outside of London, where the majority of internship opportunities are located.

The Bill has cross-party support with sponsors including Julian Huppert MP, David Miliband MP, and Eric Ollerenshaw MP.

Commenting, Mike Crockart said:

“I am delighted to give my support to this Bill. We need to close the loophole which allows companies to advertise long-term unpaid internships and Hazel Blears’ Bill brings us a good way closer to doing just that.

“The position of ‘intern’ has no legal status in this country, but has developed over recent years to fill the grey area between ‘volunteer’ and ‘worker’ in employment legislation. It is already illegal not to pay the National Minimum Wage where a person is working set hours with specific duties. But companies are still working within the law if they advertise such positions. This is absolute nonsense and we need to close the loophole.

“I am working closely with Intern Aware to tackle the problem of unpaid internships; so I know just how widespread these unpaid positions are. Offering placements which provide valuable experience and opportunities without paying the going rate excludes people from poorer backgrounds from gaining all important industry know-how.

“I have had two apprentices in my office through the Parliamentary Placement Scheme. It’s a great initiative which makes a career in politics accessible because those taken on are paid a proper wage. I would like to see this kind of properly administered scheme extended into other industries.

“I believe in fair pay for a fair days work; for smaller companies this may mean paying the minimum wage to interns, but for others it will mean adopting the Living Wage. “In today’s challenging job market, it is essential that the same opportunities are available to everyone, regardless of economic background.”

• 20% of 18-24 year olds have undertaken unpaid internships and those from higher social classes are three times more likely to undertake unpaid internships according to the respondents of a recent NUS survey.
• From the same survey 52% of respondents said they felt an internship was an important step for a career in politics. The Parliamentary Placement Scheme was brought in to make routes into a career in politics more accessible and to diversify the profession.
• Intern Aware work to represent exploited interns and to make them aware of their rights.

Mike Crockart MP has welcomed the news today that the Grocery Code Adjudicator will get the power to fine supermarkets which deal with suppliers unfairly from day one.

The Adjudicator is being set up through the Groceries Code Adjudicator Bill which is passing through Parliament and today’s announcement goes further than the original parliamentary proposals. The independent Adjudicator gives real teeth to securing a fair deal for farmers and suppliers across the country.   

The Liberal Democrats have long campaigned for a fair deal for farmers and suppliers. Liberal Democrat Competition Minister, Jo Swinson, made the announcement earlier today.

Commenting, Mike Crockart said:

“Liberal Democrat Minister Jo Swinson is delivering in Government after listening to concerns from industry. Too often, the farmer or small supplier struggles to compete with the major supermarkets which dominate our daily shopping.

“I welcome the announcement that the Adjudicator will be able to ensure fair play in the food supply chain from day one and keep the industry growing.

“I know from having visited Craigie’s Farm in the constituency that it is important for the Adjudicator to have more power to ensure that enterprising small supplies are supported.

“We are working hard to create a stronger economy and that means we need to ensure everyone is treated fairly. That is why the beefed-up powers for the Grocery Code Adjudicator are an important step.”

Mike Crockart has today given his support to an e-petition which calls on David Cameron, Nick Clegg and Ed Miliband to implement the Leveson Report in full.

The e-petition was launched by inquiry witnesses Gerry McCann and Christopher Jefferies and is run by the campaign group Hacked Off.

Commenting on the e-petition Mr Crockart said:

“I believe, quite simply, that the Leveson report should be implemented in full.

“We need a new system which brings some kind of peace of mind for the victims of phone hacking and a reassurance that nothing like this will happen again.  I have signe the e-petition to do just that and I urge anyone who cares about openness and transparency within the media to sign it.

“I believe in a vigorous free press that holds the powerful to account and isn’t subject to political interference. But a free press does not mean one which is able to bully innocent people, or abuse grieving families.

“Lord Justice Leveson’s report has rightly ruled out any state regulation of the press, but suggests an independent watchdog to ensure that the rules we have are followed. I believe that this is the right thing to do and that Lord Leveson’s recommendations strike the right balance between accountability and a free, independent press.”

The full text of the e-petition reads:

To Mr Cameron, Mr Clegg and Mr Miliband

We call on you to work together to:

• Implement as soon as possible to recommendations of the Leveson Report in full;
• Ignore pressure from media barons and introduce legally backed regulation, independent of politicians and the press;
• Place tighter limits on how much of our media an individual is allowed to own, and
• Promote investigative journalism through effective public interest defences.

The petition is available at http://hackinginquiry.org/petition 

Mike has again supported the Movember campaign by ditching the razor throughout November.Mike’s team of 16 Lib Dems ‘Moalition of the Willing’ has raised £3065 to date, with contributions to him reaching £215.

Last year the West Edinburgh MP lost his moustache, described as a ‘magnificent specimen’ by the Prime Minister, live on air with the Daily Politics Show, but this year local hairdresser Philip Politi offered to do the honours and Tesco Extra at Corstorphine has kindly offered to host the show at 11am on Saturday.

Commenting Mike said:

“Movember’s a great cause and I’m delighted that the ‘Moalition of the Willing’ has received such a lot of support.

“In a final bid to gain a bit of publicity for the cause and my fellow Mo-bros, local salon owner and entrepreneur Philip Politi, offered to showcase his skills and rid me of my moustache.

“I was in the local Tesco Extra store helping out with National Food Collections so it was a short break from that volunteering to put my feet up and relax.”

The Green Investment Bank will be opened in Edinburgh by Business Secretary Vince Cable today. Commenting ahead of the launch event, Mike Crockart MP said:
 
"Today’s launch of the UK’s Green Investment Bank in Edinburgh demonstrates the strength of the capital as a renewable energy and financial centre.

"I championed Edinburgh as the natural home of the GIB from the outset because of its strength in depth in both financial services and green technology.

"The bank will play a vital role in our transition to a low-carbon economy and will provide a welcome boost to the city's economy, bringing with it an initial 3 billion pounds to invest in green projects as well as the creation of 50-70 jobs by 2015.

"The investment bank is another way in which the Liberal Democrats in Government are working to rebalance our economy; making it more sustainable whilst also meeting green credentials.  The locating of the GIB in Edinburgh has demonstrated the UK Government’s belief in Edinburgh as a pioneer of the green revolution and a vital part of the UK's drive towards a sustainable and green future."

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, and Thomas Docherty MP for Dunfermline and West Fife have welcomed the news that the public will get to name the new forth crossing.

The search for a name for the new bridge has been officially launched today and members of the public are being asked to choose a name. A panel of civic, business and community representatives will consider all the entries, and then shortlist names for a final public vote next year.

The MPs who represent the residents most affected by construction on both sides of the Forth have written to Scotland’s Transport Minister, Keith Brown, to make the case for local representation on the panel.

Commenting on the news, Mike Crockart whose Edinburgh West constituency includes South Queensferry said:

“I am very pleased that the public will get to name the latest bridge to span the Forth.

“This is a historic project for Scotland, but for locals and their families it is an opportunity to celebrate South Queensferry’s link with the Forth and the previous generations who gave so much to build the iconic rail bridge.

“The construction impact on residents of local communities should not be underestimated or forgotten. Many of them have already fought hard to see improvements to the scheme’s design, and it would be an insult if they did not now get to put their ideas for a name forward.

“It is crucial that these local views are represented on the panel and given full and proper consideration.”

Thomas Docherty MP for Dunfermline and West Fife added:

“This is Scotland’s largest infrastructure project in a generation so I understand the need for national buy-in on the name. But it is those families and businesses living very close to the construction who are facing short term disruption.

“Knowing how much this project is affecting locals on both sides of the Forth, I am determined to ensure that their views on the name of the crossing are heard loud and clear by the Minister.

“Mike and I have previously made the case for naming the crossing “The Queensferry Bridge” in recognition of the communities on both the north and south sides, but I am sure that local residents will have their own ideas about what will make a fitting tribute.”
 

Mike Crockart has added his support to Anti-Bullying Week, which is taking place from 19-23 November 2012.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“People come across bullying at work, school and even at home. It is endemic throughout society but it often begins in schools. 

“Childhood bullying can do long-lasting damage as it knocks confidence and self-esteem. We owe it to our children to do more to tackle bullying and to support the victims, who need more sympathetic support rather than the cold shoulder they often find.

“I am pleased that we’re taking steps to deal with cyber bullying, which is difficult to tackle because it often happens anonymously and outside of the view of parents and teachers.

“Rules and legislation can only take us so far: as a society, we need to do more together to address bullying.”

The Coalition Government has helped school governors, heads and school staff develop their own plans to manage behaviour and prevent bullying; passed legislation to strengthen teachers’ powers to tackle bad behaviour; invested £1.3m in BeatBullying’s CyberMentors programme, a unique peer-mentoring support programme that is available both online and offline; and supported the work of the UK Council for Child Internet Safety, which brings together 180 organisations and individuals from government, law enforcement, charities, business and parenting group to help keep young children safe online.

In partnership with The Times Education Supplement, BeatBullying is hosting a live lesson on its CyberMentros at 11.00 on Thursday 22 November 2012, which will be streamed into schools all over the UK and around the world direct from Google HQ. For details of how to watch the lesson live, visit www.BeatBullying.org/tes.

Mike Crockart has welcomed the news that Virgin Atlantic has been offered the short haul remedy slots from Edinburgh to London Heathrow.

Commenting Mr Crockart whose constituency takes in the capital's airport said:

"This is excellent news for passengers and for our capital's airport.

"There has been a great deal of legitimate concern about a lack of competition on this vital route since International Airline Group took over bmi, and I am pleased that there will
now be more than one carrier.

"Competition means lower prices and more choice for passengers; whether their journey be for business or leisure.

"The announcement of the Virgin Edinburgh slot as well as a direct flight from Aberdeen to Heathrow is a welcome boost to Scotland's economy and attractiveness as a tourist destination.

"The next big issue for passengers as well as the aviation industry is Air Passenger Duty (APD).

"I spoke in a debate on APD in the Commons earlier this month after being contacted by around 50 constituents concerned at its current level. I share their concerns and will continue to work with the Government to ensure the future prosperity of Scotland's aviation industry as well as a fair deal for consumers."

Mike Crockart has welcomed the news that the Government have awarded a seven year contract to continue to provide services for the DVLA to the Post Office.

The announcement was made in the House of Commons yesterday by the Secretary State for Transport, Patrick McLoughlin MP. The contract will ensure that vital services to the DVLA by the Post Office remain unchanged. Under the contract Post Office Ltd will offer DVLA services at over 4,700 outlets for road tax and vehicle transactions, 750 outlets will also cater for driver licensing.

This new contract provides value for money for the taxpayer resulting in savings of between £13 million and £15 million a year. It also gives scope for the Post Office to provide front office counter services for other governmental departments, to increase inefficiencies across government and provide better value for the tax payer.

Mr Crockart was contacted by over 160 constituents with concerns about the potential discontinuation of DVLA services within the Post Office, highlighting that it would have an impact on the vulnerable.

Speaking about the decision, Mr Crockart said:

"This is great news nationally and locally. This decision shows that the Government is following through on its commitment to make the Post Office the 'front office of government'.

"It provides an opportunity to increase the scope of services provided by the Post Office and could in longer term increase efficiencies across Government departments and provide better value for money for the tax payer. 

"Post Offices are vital in Edinburgh so renewing the contract is a lifeline for both them and the communities they serve. I would also like to congratulate campaigners who 'did make it happen."

Speaking on BBC Radio Scotland this morning Mike Crockart welcomed Deputy Prime Minister Nick Clegg's announcement of radical reforms to parental leave, allowing both parents to share up to a year's leave to look after their new-born children.

The changes will deliver a long held Liberal Democrat commitment to make parental leave more flexible, allowing fathers to play a greater role in raising their child, helping mothers to return to work at a time that's right for them and creating more flexible workplaces to boost the economy.

New proposals also announced extend the right to request the flexible working to all employees, to give greater choice and freedom to workers and businesses.

Commenting Mr Crockart said: 

"Liberal Democrats have long supported more flexible working and parental leave and I'm incredibly proud that the Coalition Government has delivered these revolutionary reforms.

"Shared parental leave is about fairness for woman in the workplace and equality for men and woman as they plan their families and careers.

"It will signal one of the greatest advances for equality in recent years as gradually employers will get used to more men taking time off after their child is born, and more women returning to work.

"It will also help employers to attract and retain women in their organisations and prevent women dropping out of the workforce once they start a family."

Commenting, Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg, said:

"Liberal Democrats believe that our current system of maternity leave is out-of-date and out-of-step with the wishes of modern parents who want much greater flexibility in how they look after their children.

"I believe reform is long overdue and the changes we are making will shatter the perception that woman have to be primary care-givers. In the future, both mothers and fathers will be able to take control of how they balance those precious first months with their child and their careers.

"This is good news not only for parents and parents-to-be, but employers too who will benefit from a much more flexible and motivated workforce.

Commenting further, Liberal Democrat Minister for Employment Relations, Jo Swinson, said: 

"Liberal Democrats believe that if we are to deliver sustainable, strong growth we need to get the best out of both men and women in the workforce.

"Current arrangements are old fashioned, inflexible and gender-biased. People should have the right to choose how they balance their work and family commitments.

"These proposals bring good news for business- not least a more motivated and productive workforce. Employers will be able to recruit and retain staff from a wider pool of talent in turn helping to diversify our economy and drive growth."

After receiving 484 emails from constituents, Mike Crockart MP stood up in a House of Commons debate last week and backed a motion calling on "HM Treasury to commission a comprehensive study into the full economic impact of Air Passenger Duty (APD) in the UK, including the effects on jobs and growth."

The Edinburgh West MP stated that levels of APD "are now putting the UK at a competitive disadvantage in relation to other European and global destinations." Particular emphasis was placed on the negative impact he saw air passenger duty having on the Scottish economy and its tourism industry, asserting that "the 2007 drop in passenger numbers appears to have amounted to a £90 million per annum loss with regard to Scottish tourism. Following the 2009 APD rise, that figure has risen to £160 million and, if projections are correct, it will rise to £210 million per annum by 2016. This simply cannot continue."

Mr Crockart was joined by up to 20 MPs from across the major parties who also supported a review of APD, including Conservative MPs Priti Patel, Henry Smith and Adam Afriyie, the former tabling the motion, and Labour MPs Michael Connarty, Paul Goggins and Brian Donohoe. Despite widespread support for the motion, the Economic Secretary to the Treasury, Sajid Javid, reiterated the current Government position on a review of tax, affirming "we have no plans at this point for further consultation, but we are keen to ensure that the aviation sector can not continue to enable economic growth and support jobs across the country."

David Caplan, Chief Executive of the Airport Operators Association, said: "It's simply incredible that so many constituents of Mike Crockart have decided to write to him about their concerns regarding the UK having the highest levels of Air Passenger Duty in the world. And now this parliamentary debate has been clearly won by MPs- including Mr Crockart- who are asking the Treasury to do a very simple thing: conduct a study into the impact eye-wateringly high levels of APD are having on the wider economy. From the volume of emails Mike Crockart has been receiving, it is clear that that aviation tax is now a postbag issue for politicians all over Scotland- the Government should respond to the campaign by commissioning that research."

The debate comes 21 weeks into a summer initiative by campaign group A Fair Tax on Flying, encouraging travelers and businesses to contact MPs about current levels of APD, and calling for a Treasury review into its wider economic impact. The campaign has so far seen 200,000 emails sent by constituents to their local MPs, with Conservative MPs receiving 116,071 emails, Labour MPs 55,701 and Lib Dems 17,507. Over 90,000 emails have also been sent to the Treasury by non-UK residents.

Commenting on the announcement that Edinburgh City Council is set to adopt the Living Wage for its workers from January, Mike Crockart, said:

“I am delighted that Edinburgh Council has made the decision to adopt the Living Wage.

“The pay increase will help those on the lowest wages and taking into account the Coalition Government’s rise in the income tax threshold for all basic rate taxpayers people will see a real difference in their take home pay. By April next year the number of people lifted out of income tax will rise to more than 2 million; 21 million people will have a £220 tax cut in 2013, this is on top of the £200 cut last year and £130 which came into effect this April. This means that ordinary working people will be £550 better off.

“I have given the campaign my full backing – encouraging FTSE 100 companies with a base in the Capital to adopt the Living Wage.”

The UK’s Green Investment Bank has today got the green light from the European Commission. As a result the GIB will begin full operations in the next few weeks.

Mike Crockart MP who campaigned for the bank to be located in the capital said:

“This is excellent news. The announcement means that the bank can get on with what it was set up for – to gain backing for renewable projects and low carbon technologies.

“The first areas to see investment will be offshore wind, waste treatment and recycling, energy from waste, non domestic energy efficiency and support for the Green Deal; all of which have been identified as priorities.

“Having the Green Investment Bank in Edinburgh will help us to establish the city as the capital of the green energy revolution, acting as a springboard for international low-carbon ventures.

“I know that the team is establishing itself well in the capital and I very much look forward to the official launch in Edinburgh in November."

Commenting on an announcement today from Ofcom that landline and mobile phone providers must provide an improved ‘text relay’ service for people with hearing and speech impairments, Edinburgh’s Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart said:
 
“Whilst welcome, this change still requires Deaf BSL users to communicate in a language which is not their own. And stating an intention to look at speech recognition technology merely adds insult to injury. The hearing users end of the text relay is not the end needing the improvement.
 
“OFCOM should recognise that text relay has had its day and they should move without delay to the provision of a proper video relay service.
 
“Only by doing that will we have a service which can be judged as being functionally equivalent which will revolutionise service provision for Deaf BSL users.”
 
Liz Scott Gibson, Chief Executive, Deaf Action added:
 
“We are glad to see that Ofcom recognises the limits of text relay and appears keen to improve the services it provides to all its customers. 
 
“While text relay can be of great benefit to deaf people, particularly those who have become deaf and are comfortable using English, for some it is a dated concept. The number of text relay calls received at our office has decreased over the years with contact more likely to come in the form of SMS text messaging. 
 
“Advances in video relay interpreting or online interpreting, like Deaf Action’s SignVideo service, has greatly improved Deaf BSL users’ access and choice.  In many cases for a Deaf BSL user to access an online interpretation service they must pay for all the costs associated with the service.” 

Mike Crockart was the first Scottish MP to offer a BSL video interpreting service at his constituency office.

Commenting on the announcement this morning by EasyJet of 6 new routes operating from Edinburgh Airport, Mike Crockart MP said:

“This is a very welcome announcement by an airline which demonstrates a refreshing willingness to work in partnership with the City of Edinburgh.

“It is also an early vote of confidence by EasyJet in the new management at Edinburgh Airport, coming so close after the takeover by Global Infrastructure Partners.

“I look forward to seeing the benefits both for local businesses accessing new markets but also for the city as a whole as a thriving tourist destination.”

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, has taken action following a number of complaints from constituents about bins not being emptied.

Mr Crockart went around the constituency this afternoon photographing the state of the bins and forwarding these to the relevant Council teams.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

“I had a number of emails this morning about bins not being collected at locations where communal bins are used.

“To have rubbish overflowing is a health risk, but it’s also just incredibly poor service for Edinburgh residents who pay high council tax rates.

“This afternoon I photographed evidence from around Edinburgh West which demonstrates the scale of the problem.

“ I really hope that my sending these images to the Council via Twitter will prompt action.”

Mike Crockart MP has welcomed today's announcement that the Information Commissioner’s Office (ICO) is set to issue fines totalling over £250,000 to two illegal marketers who distributed millions of spam texts.
 
The ICO has written to both companies giving them 28 days to respond and prove they were complying with the law, if they cannot do this or do not respond final penalty notices will then be issued.
 
This announcement comes just weeks after Mr Crockart launched a campaign to tackle nuisance calls supported by the Sunday Post newspaper which has already received the support of over ten thousand people.
 
Commenting on the fines Mike said:
 
“This announcement is hugely welcome and hopefully marks the start of a much more active enforcement phase by the ICO . The overwhelming response to my campaign has proved that the public are sick of receiving millions of unsolicited calls and texts.
 
“However, action like this would not be possible without the information provided by the public. I would urge everyone who receives a nuisance call or text to register the details on the ICO website. The more information that is available, the more fines the ICO will be able to issue.
 
“Although this is a good start, I believe that the ICO should have the powers to go further. My campaign calls for the ICO’s powers to be strengthened to take in all forms of unsolicited contact and for there to be a single point of contact for any individual wishing to protect their privacy. Until we do that these companies will keep trying to find their way round the maze of regulations."
 
ICO announcement in full

No 2 Nuisance Calls campaign

Ofcom has today published an in depth guide for consumers on how to protect themselves against nuisance calls and messages and how to make a complaint.    

Commenting on the announcement that Edinburgh will receive £10.7 million from the UK Government to see the capital become a ‘super-connected city’ Mike Crockart MP said:

“This is great news for the capital, but it is particularly good news for my constituents who live in the rural parts of Edinburgh West.

“I have been campaigning for the exchange to be upgraded, but until now its future has been uncertain.

“The fact that the UK Government has awarded the capital more than it requested means that Edinburgh West will see the upgrades it needs. By 2014/15 residents and businesses in Kirkliston, Ratho, Ratho Station, Dalmeny and South Queensferry  will see real improvements to their service and will, finally, have broadband fit for the 21st century.

“In spite of the fact that The Scottish Government has £280 million available to use on digital infrastructure it has refused to allocate any funding to upgrades in the capital; abandoning my constituents and ignoring the calls of the local SNP MSP.

“Thankfully City of Edinburgh Council has managed to secure funding from the UK Government to make ‘better broadband’ a reality for those living in the rural west of the City.”

The Edinburgh City Council announcement can be seen here: http://www.edinburgh.gov.uk/news/article/1009/107m_to_make_edinburgh_a_super_connected_city

The DCMS announcement can be seen here: http://www.culture.gov.uk/news/media_releases/9350.aspx

Mike Crockart has welcomed the City of Edinburgh Council’s Connected Capital Programme which will make Edinburgh a world-class digital city by 2015.

The cost of the Programme is being met by the UK Government’s Urban Broadband Fund which is designed to create 10 super-connected cities across the UK.

The Edinburgh West MP has been running a ‘Better Broadband’ campaign for the last year to try to secure vital digital infrastructure upgrades in the west of the city where businesses and residents have to deal with ludicrously slow connectivity.

Commenting on the announcement, Mike Crockart said:

“Today’s Connected Capital announcement is very good news for the city and especially for the communities in the rural west like Kirkliston, Dalmeny, Ratho and South Queensferry.

“I understand that the urgently needed upgrade to the Kirkliston exchange will be carried out under the programme; giving residents and businesses the quick and reliable broadband they need in the twenty-first century.

“The local community has been fighting for the upgrade for years and I am delighted that our campaign has finally won this improvement.

“Whilst the news is very welcome, it is disappointing that the Council has had to step in and use Super-Connected Cities funding to secure the upgrade. The Scottish Government has £280 million available to use on digital infrastructure, but despite promising much has failed to come up with any credible plan.”

Mike Crockart has congratulated nine young people who were the first to graduate from the Edinburgh Guarantee.

The nine school leavers started their internship at Standard Life last March and three have now been successful after applying for full time positions with the company. Two individuals have had their contracts extended and two more now moving on to higher education. Two of the interns are still deciding what to do next.

The Edinburgh West MP who is running the ‘Get Edinburgh Working Campaign’ to find 100 training places for young people in 100 days will soon take a young person on through the scheme.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

“This news just goes to show what initiatives like this can achieve. The young interns have obviously done a fantastic job and they all deserve praise for their hard work.

“The Guarantee provides opportunities for young people who are struggling to find work or training in today’s difficult job market.

“It’s great to hear Standard Life’s Group Operations Officer, Sandy Begbie, praise the interns so highly and encourage other employers to look to take people on through the Guarantee. I am delighted that Standard Life will be taking on a further 10 young people at the end of August.

“I am nearly half way to finding my 100 training places with the response from local businesses and young people being overwhelmingly positive. But we still have another 50 to find so there’s a lot of hard work still to do.”

Mike Crockart today welcomed the UK Government’s package of investment for railways saying:

“Improvements to the East Coast Main Line are good news for Scotland with individuals and businesses set to benefit from quicker journey times.

“The £240 million Main Line investment will improve connectivity between London, Eastern England, the North East and Scotland.

“Liberal Democrats have long championed real investment in the long term future of the railways, and I am pleased that Scotland is benefitting from this. Rail is a greener form of transport than road or aviation. Our investment will encourage more people to choose trains over cars and ensure that we have a railway that is faster, more reliable, less crowded, and greener.”

Commenting following a statement to the House by the Minister for Disabled People on the future of Remploy, local MP Mike Crockart said:
 
“I am very pleased that the Edinburgh site is still in the commercial process after a successful business plan was put forward. This is good news for those employed by the factory in the capital.
 
“Whilst today’s news is positive for those based at the Edinburgh site, I know that employees and their family and friends will still be very anxious about the future.
 
“The Minister indicated that the next stage of the process should be complete by September and I will certainly do all I can to help the Edinburgh factory at South Gyle over the summer.
 
“I will be seeking a meeting with the Minister to discuss next steps."

Mike Crockart MP has written to every secondary school in Edinburgh West encouraging them to get involved with Lloyds Banking Group’s University Programme, “Lloyds Scholars”. Aimed at students from lower income families, the innovative scheme aims to provide students with the opportunity to attend some of the UK’s top universities.

Building on the success of the pilot schemes with the Universities of Bristol and Sheffield, the Programme has been extended to include Edinburgh, Oxford, University College London and Warwick universities.

The Lloyds Scholars Programme will provide students with an all-round professional and vocational experience. It will support students with academic and vocational development through mentoring and paid internships as well as strengthening their personal skills by volunteering and community work. 

Students will receive financial support and the peace-of-mind which goes with it, but the Programme will also ask students to give back to their communities by completing at least 100 hours of volunteering each year.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“This is a great scheme for students throughout the UK from lower income families. It will provide them with complete financial support during their studies, and significantly improve their employability.

“I’m pleased that Lloyds is building on the success of the pilot Scholars Programme by including more universities from around the UK, like Edinburgh.

“Volunteering is really rewarding and a great way to get involved in the community. For the young people lucky enough to get a place on the scheme they will not only get the chance to give back to their communities but also gain valuable transferable skills.

“I hope that schools across the capital will get involved with the Scholars Programme scheme; it’s a fantastic opportunity to increase social mobility and give young people the best possible chance of success at University and in the workplace.”

You can find out more about the programme on Lloyd’s website.

Commenting after a statement to the House on the future of the British Army, local MP, Mike Crockart, said:

“In today’s statement the Secretary of State for Defence said that the restructuring of the British Army does not change the details of the Basing Review which were announced last year. But it’s clear that if you have fewer Multi-Role Brigades, you need fewer bases for them.

“I hope therefore that we can finally put to bed the proposal for a super-barracks in Kirknewton and end the year long uncertainty of those presently based in Dreghorn, Redford and Craigiehall Barracks.

“I have requested a meeting with the Minister to discuss the future of Craigiehall, given today’s announcement.

“With a Public Duties Company being created to return sentries to Edinburgh Castle and the Palace of Holyroodhouse on a permanent basis, it seems that a HQ with the requisite knowledge and experience will be vital to the smooth running of the company. Craigiehall and its staff have the skills and expertise to continue to provide first class support to Scotland’s Army.”

Local MP Mike Crockart has today tabled an Early Day Motion welcoming the news that South Queensferry is to become a Business Improvement District.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“This is excellent news for the community of South Queensferry.

“That so many businesses voted for the Business Improvement District shows just how go-ahead this small town is.

“I am sure that South Queensferry and its businesses will make the very most of this opportunity and I will be there to support them in any way I can.”

Commenting after the report in today’ s Edinburgh Evening News that Michael Connarty MP had criticised the royal highland show for not dealing with traffic problems which occurred after a weekend of unprecedented bad weather.

Local MP Mike Crockart said:

“Whilst it is unfortunate that Mr Connarty missed his flight it is clear that this year saw a set of circumstances including unprecedented rainfall, which made access to the site extremely difficult.

“The exciting master plan for development of the site which is now underway, will deal with these access issues which have been problematic for many years.

“What is important right now is that we review what went wrong this year and ensure that we have robust contingency plans in place for 12 months time.

“That way all of Scotland will continue to benefit from this wonderful event whilst ensuring the continued award winning service of our excellent international airport.”
    

Mike Crockart has welcomed a move to get civil servants using language that everyone can understand.

Alan Duncan, Minister for International Development, has ordered all those who work for him to start talking and writing in a way that is clear to non-government people.

The Minister reportedly issued a memo to his civil servants which accused them of damaging Britain’s reputation abroad by using ‘language that the rest of the world doesn’t understand’.

Mr Duncan is not happy with those in the department using words like ‘leverage’ or ‘mainstream’; nor is he impressed with phrases which are loose and meaningless like ‘going forward’.

Commenting on the move Mr Crockart who is leading a campaign for plain language said:

“This is very good news; a win for common sense.

“So much of a politician’s job is communicating, but often we use words and phrases which are meaningless to people.

“I am working with the Plain English Campaign to try to get politicians, government departments and financial institutions using plain language. This means writing and speaking in a way which is clear and simple.

“People are bombarded with so much information that it’s crucial that important points are easily accessible to everyone. I am very pleased that Mr Duncan has realised this. I will be tabling questions to ask other government departments how they intend to respond to the need for plain language.”

The Coalition government has announced significant new schemes worth tens of billions of pounds to boost lending and get the economy moving as well as protect Britain from the instability in the Eurozone. The schemes will cut the cost of borrowing for businesses and families, which will support the whole economy.

Welcoming the move, Mike Crockart MP, said:

“A lack of confidence around availability and cost of credit is damaging businesses and costing jobs; we want to ensure credit worthy businesses have access to the lending they need. This boost from the Government will not only support current investment but will encourage businesses to bring forward investment, generating jobs and growth.

“It is only because the Government has taken difficult decisions necessary to deal with the deficit that our international credit rating has been protected, allowing the government to use its balance sheet to support businesses and households through these types of schemes.

“I have been calling on banks to do more to help SMEs in order to boost the economy. Thanks to Business Secretary Vince Cable significant steps have already been taken to get the banking sector on a sustainable footing.

“This announcement will help Scottish businesses and our economy to weather the Eurozone storm by building on the trust we’ve gained from the markets with our determination to deal with our debts.”

Mike's 'give before you go' vlog

Mike Crockart is supporting World Blood Donor Day by giving blood at the Edinburgh Donor Centre in Lauriston Place.

Mike has also tabled an Early Day Motion welcoming National Blood Week and World Blood Donor Day.

Commenting ahead of giving his donation, Mike said: 

“Each summer sees a reduction in blood donations of up to 20%. The message to everyone this year, whether travelling abroad on holiday or enjoying the celebrations at home, is ‘Give Before You Go’.

“In the run-up to the London Olympics, British blood stocks need to be built up by an extra 30% in preparation for the additional visitors we will welcome to the UK for this summer's events.

“I am doing my little bit to help by visiting the Edinburgh Donor Centre and I would encourage others to do the same."

For more information about giving blood in your area visit www.scotblood.co.uk

Mike Crockart is calling on the City of Edinburgh Council to show a bit of common sense rather than adopt a bureaucratic red tape approach on licensing applications for community events.

There are a large number of community-run events in the City with many fairs and galas entertaining local residents. These are mostly run by volunteers who give up a great deal of their own time, but are finding that they are facing Health and Safety requirements that are so strict, they simply cannot be met. Many of these events are now considering whether they can continue if the conditions set get worse in the years to come.

Organisers of the 2012 Corstorphine Fair had been told by the Council that stalls must comply with various regulations including the requirements of the Food Safety Act 1990 and the Health and Safety at Work Etc Act 1974.

The rigorous conditions contain rules such as; “impervious floor coverings should be provided in all food handling units”; “facilities for hand washing must be provided with a supply of hot and cold water”; “a temperature probe and antibacterial probe wipes must  be used to monitor hot and cold food and equipment temperatures and these temperatures should be recorded in a suitable manner”.

Mike said:

“One of the requirements state that all food handlers must be formally trained in Food Hygiene to REHIS Elementary level or equivalent or are supervised at all times by someone who has. A local Scout Group or Church Group who may wish to have a hamburger stall at a local fair is very unlikely to have suitably qualified people.

“Everyone associated with such events would agree that the safety and wellbeing of all attending is essential, but there must be a common sense approach by the Council as to the conditions that can feasibly be met as part of the Public Entertainment License application.

“Hamburger and Hot dog stalls have been a feature of fairs and galas for many years and are a welcome and essential part of the infrastructure. When groups are faced with such over-bearing regulations, it is no wonder that people are running for the hills due to the implications involved.

“Conditions and requirements, which seem to increase each year, are in danger of stifling out community events and Edinburgh would be a much poorer city without them.”

Ewan Irvine, one of the organisers of Corstorphine Fair added:

“We find that each time we run the Fair, licensing takes up an excessive amount of time, due to the increasing regulations.

“We found that after the Council contacted the organisations who were selling food to advise them of these regulations, many of them contacted us to say they might have to pull out of the event.

“We do not underestimate the need for ‘public safety’, but the increasing rules and regulations mean that many events may become extinct altogether”.

Two weeks ago,  Mike Crockart MP, launched the campaign ‘Get Edinburgh Working’, which aims to find 100 local job or training opportunities in 100 days.
 
The campaign was launched to call on businesses across Edinburgh to support local people and provide training opportunities to get people back into work.
 
Mike said:

“The response from local businesses has been amazing and we’ve already identified a dozen training places with many more conversations started between businesses and the 'Joined up for Jobs’ team.
 
“Each one of these training places has the potential to be life-changing for the young person receiving it. I’m sure that the next few weeks will see the campaign secure many more of these 100 opportunities”
 
Anna Louise Simpson, the CEO of Mama Tea added:

“Taking on an Apprentice is like business karma; we give a young person a chance but get so much more in return. I would recommend that every business should consider it”.
 
Graham Birnie, Factory Manager of Premier Hytemp said:

“There is a lot of support available for businesses, no matter what their size, to provide training opportunities and to get young people back into work.
 
“We’ve committed to taking on two people through the Modern Apprenticeship with a local college and I would encourage as many companies as possible to get involved with such a worthwhile campaign”.
 
Barrie Henderson, the Managing Director of Xtreme Karting commented:

“100 Apprentices in 100 days is a brilliant campaign. It is great to see so many local businesses working together to reduce unemployment in Edinburgh.
 
“We have taken on two paid work experience placements before in our site in Falkirk and they ended up gaining full-time jobs. I hope the same will happen with the two local people we’re now going to employ in Edinburgh.”

Mike Crockart has adopted Milo as part of Which? Magazine’s “Watchdog not Lapdog” campaign.

The campaign calls for a new robust, open and proactive financial watchdog which puts consumer interests first. A watchdog is to be introduced through the Financial Services Bill which is currently going through Parliament. 

The Financial Services Bill, which is now under scrutiny in the House of Lords, will see the end of the Financial Services Authority and the creation of two new bodies, the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA).

The PRA will focus on ‘big picture’ issues that have the potential to destabilise the whole economy whilst the FCA will operate as a consumer champion.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“I was pleased to adopt Milo and I encourage others to do the same.

“I am running a Plain Language campaign, which supports the use of simple and clear language in public information, like the financial sector. I would like to see the FCA take a more proactive approach by banning questionable financial products and misleading adverts before they cause problems.

“It is important for the FCA to reprimand organisations and issue fines that are big enough to act as deterrents. It also needs to promote competition by making sure products are transparent, simple to compare and easy to switch between. These few measures will ensure a much fairer system.

“Which? is right to say that we need tougher regulation of the financial sector. I do not want to see the legislation watered down at this stage.”

Mike with his adoption certificate

Mike Crockart, has today welcomed the announcement of £32m extra funding for the delivery of superfast broadband in Scotland.
 
This extra funding is on top of the existing £68.8m which was allocated to Scotland by the UK Government last August, taking the total to over £100m.
 
The decision to increase the funding was taken as Scotland’s geography makes delivering superfast broadband difficult.
 
Commenting on the announcement, Mike said:

“The increase in funding is great news for the communities of Edinburgh West. The Government recognise the importance of high-speed broadband and are working to implement it across the whole of the UK.

“High-speed broadband will give people more reliable and efficient access to public services online.Improving broadband speeds will also give companies a competitive edge and a boost to the economy. This latest investment has the potential to attract new businesses to the area and will encourage web based ventures.

“I have long campaigned to make sure that the rural parts of west Edinburgh like Kirkliston, Ratho, Dalmeny and South Queensferry are not neglected, and the extra funding goes some way to ensuring that superfast broadband can be delivered across the whole of Scotland and not just the cities.”

As new owners Global Infrastructure Partners take over at Edinburgh International Airport and the former managing director, Gordon Dewar, returns to take up the airport’s chief executive officer role, Mike Crockart said:
 
"Edinburgh Airport has made real progress over the last few years with new routes being added and significant improvements being made to the terminal.
 
"The hard work of the management team of BAA has resulted in increased passenger numbers and numerous awards, like the Airport Service Quality (ASQ) Award earlier this year.
 
"I am sure that the new owners will continue to help Edinburgh grow as an international airport, providing the stability it needs to attract more routes and more customers.
 
"Of course there are challenges for the new owners; the sale of BMI to BA perhaps the most important at present.
 
"I have already requested a meeting with the new senior management team to discuss this amongst other things.
 
"I very much look forward to welcoming Gordon back to the capital and working with him and his team to extend Edinburgh's reputation as an airport of national and international significance."
 

Today saw the launch of the 2012 Edinburgh Fringe Programme, an enormous 379 page document containing details of the largest Arts Festival in the world.

Mike Crockart MP has discovered, however, that the information in it was, in part, collated by an unpaid ‘programming intern’ working for one of the main fringe venues. The intern worked a ‘minimum 3-4 days per week’ for 3 months and pulled together details of the many acts performing at the Pleasance venues.

Mr Crockart said:

“Edinburgh Festival and its Fringe are the most prestigious in the world and the demand to work in them must be enormous. The Fringe itself is to be congratulated for the enlightened way it has worked with DWP to ensure the majority of its jobs are paid and open to all backgrounds and those with disabilities. However, as an industry, the creative arts have a reputation for extensive use of unpaid interns.

“By making this essential position unpaid, alongside others in administration, marketing and the box office, this venue has effectively limited those able to take advantage of these opportunities to people with wealthy parents or plenty cash in the bank. It has excluded the vast majority of potential applicants and has restricted the diversity of backgrounds in those applying."

Martin Bright, founder and CEO of youth employment charity New Deal of the Mind added:

“The Edinburgh Fringe has a strong international reputation.  It would be a pity if that were tarnished by some of its major venues failing to pay its interns an honest wage for an honest day's work. Mike Crockart is absolutely right to raise this issue. Young people are desperate to work in creative jobs, but responsible employers must not exploit their goodwill."

Mike Crockart launched Get Edinburgh Working at Murrayfield Stadium this morning, a new campaign to find 100 local job or training opportunities in 100 days.

The MP was joined by local business leaders as well as representatives from some multinationals. Representatives from the Joined UP For Jobs Team were on hand to promote the challenge and offer advice to employers all in a bid to find more jobs in the area.

Commenting Mike said:

"I launched this challenge calling on businesses across Edinburgh West to support local people who are unemployed and provide training opportunities to get people back into work.

"These types of opportunities can make a huge difference in someone's life. It can also be a great catalyst for business growth, tapping into new talent and potential.

"The Get Edinburgh Working Challenge is good for local businesses, good for those out of work and good for our community.

"I have taken the first step and have taken on two apprentices in my London office; I will be taking one on in my Edinburgh office soon.”

Barrie Henderson Managing Director of Xtreme Karting in Newbridge said:

“It was a fantastic event and very successful. Businesses were able to talk openly about any concerns they had or barriers they faced.”

David Paterson, Head of Regional Affairs for Asda added:

“It's great to see a joined up approach from so many partners to get young people in to employment. We are seeing real business benefits from our apprenticeship scheme, work experience, and work placement programmes and it's excellent to see so many businesses wanting to share best practice and do their bit to fly the flag for young people in Edinburgh."

Mike Crockart has today written to a joint letter to Jeremy Hunt, Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport and Lord McNally, Minister of State and Deputy Leader of the House of Lords, to demand that the legislation around cold-calling via people’s home and mobile phones be strengthened and more rigorously applied. 

The joint letter highlights the fact that consumers are currently let down because where responsibility lies in unclear. OFCOM is responsible for the Telephone Preference Service, but the Information Commissioner regulates the protection and sharing of data.

At present, once you have registered your phone number with the telephone preference service, a ban comes into effect that forbids cold-calling you over the phone. Recorded messages, however, are covered by other legislation (Privacy and Electronic Communications (EC Directive) Regulations 2003) and unsolicited SMS messages don’t appear to be covered at all.

Mr Crockart has called for the Information Commissioner’s powers to be strengthened to take in all forms of unsolicited contact and for there to be a single simple point of contact for any individual wishing to protect their privacy whether from unwanted faxes, mail, phone calls or texts. He has also asked that OFCOM’s responsibility to maintain a register of people who do not wish to receive sales calls is more rigorously applied.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“People should be able to guarantee their privacy in a simple and effective way. The present situation where responsibility lies with OFCOM, the Information Commissioner and various ‘preferencing services’ is merely a charter for unscrupulous companies to ride roughshod over the regulations with very little chance of any charges being pursued. 

“I’ve lodged ten separate complaints with the Information Commissioner relating to unwanted text and phone marketing calls I’ve received just in the last few weeks. I urge all my constituents to do the same and to let me know so I can add them to the list I’m now compiling.  People shouldn’t have to put up with this menace which puts many vulnerable and elderly people at risk of fraud just as much as if the crook or pushy salesman was turning up at their door.

“Many of the big energy companies have recently stopped cold-calling in person thanks to a strong and vocal local campaign. I urge people to get involved again so we can stamp out these nuisance calls once and for all.”

Full campaign details

Bidding for Edinburgh’s local TV channel is now underway after OFCOM confirmed that Edinburgh will be one of the first areas in the UK to have its own local TV station.

Commenting on the announcement Mike Crockart said:

“This is good news for the capital. People want to be kept up-to-date with issues which are important to them and a local TV station for Edinburgh will make this possible.

“UK media has become over centralised and doesn’t serve local areas the way it should. Today’s announcement is a big step forward in bringing Edinburgh relevant home-grown programming.

“Of course we must make sure that the very many rural communities around Edinburgh, like Ratho and Kirkliston in my constituency, are included in the scheduling. There is a fear that programming will be centred on the city, neglecting the views of those in more rural areas.”

As a supporter of the VRS Today! campaign to bring equal access to telecommunications for deaf people, I added my name to an open letter to the CEOs of the major telecommunications companies. The letter is published in today's Times.

It is signed by the heads of the major deaf organisations, representing over 10m deaf and hard-of-hearing people in the UK, and the Chair of the All Party Parliamentary Group on Deafness.

The open letter calls on the industry to work with the deaf community to find solutions which meet deaf peoples' telecommunications needs - a request first made by the Communications Minister over six months ago.

You can highlight the campaign on Twitter by using the hashtag #relaycampaign.

The letter to the Chief Executives of BT, O2, Vodafone, Three, Talk Talk, KCom, Virgin Media, Everything Everywhere and BSkyB reads:
 
Dear Sirs,
 
As we mark Deaf Awareness Week, we are writing to express our frustration at the lack of progress towards the introduction of a telecommunications service which meets the needs of deaf people. Six months ago, the Communications Minister called on you to engage with the deaf community to discuss these needs and establish how the industry could deliver modern relay services including enhanced text relay, captioned telephony and video relay services. You have failed to meet with us in open forum in response to the Minister's request and your silence has been deeply disappointing.
 
Deaf people have the right to access telecommunications which are functionally equivalent to those enjoyed by other end-users. For British Sign Language users this can only be achieved through a fully operational and universally available Video Relay Service. Enhanced text based relay services and captioned telephony will provide similar transformational services for deaf people who use spoken and/or written English.
 
We urge you to engage fully with us and all relevant stakeholders to find a viable solution which delivers functionally equivalent telecommunications for deaf people. Positive action by the industry is long overdue. You are delaying the introduction of modern relay services, and exacerbating the isolation and disadvantage which is faced by deaf people who are denied equal access to telecommunications.
 
Deaf people are waiting for you to act.
 
Yours sincerely,
 
 
Jim Edwards
Chairman
UK Council on Deafness
 
Ruth Myers
Chairman
TAG
 
David Buxton
Chief Executive Officer
British Deaf Association
 
Susan Daniels
Chief Executive
National Deaf Children's Society
 
Gill Morbey
Chief Executive
Sense
 
Steve Powell
Chief Executive
SignHealth
 
Bencie Woll BA, MA, PhD
Director, Deafness Cognition and Language Research Centre, UCL
 
Rt Hon Ben Bradshaw MP
Secretary of State for Culture, Media and Sport 2009 - 2010
 
Rt Hon Malcolm Bruce MP
Chair
All-Party Group on Deafness
 
Anas Sarwar MP
Deputy Leader
Scottish Labour Party
 
Rt Hon Tom Brake MP
Co-Chair, Liberal Democrat Policy Committee on Equalities
 
Mike Crockart MP
Member, Joint Committee on Human Rights
 
Roger Beeson
Chair
Royal Association for Deaf People
 
Ross Trotter
Chairman
National Association of Deafened People
 
Gordon Chapman
Chairman
DN: UK
 
Clare Kennedy
Chief Executive
deafPLUS
 
Jeff McWhinney
Managing Director
SignVideo
 
John Walker
Convenor of Deaf Studies
University of Sussex
 
Charlie Swinbourne
Deaf Journalist and Broadcaster
 
Mark Nelson
Managing Director
Remark!

Mike Crockart today called on local residents to have a free health check from the Money Advice Service.

The Money Advice Service is a free, independent service, established by government and funded by a levy on the financial services industry.

The health check is a free service available to everyone online at www.moneyadviceservice.org.uk

Mr Crockart said:

“This is a great tool to help people plan for the future, which is why I am urging everyone to spare a few minutes to complete the financial health check 

“It takes less than 10 minutes to complete, involves no paper work and provides an action plan suited to the individuals circumstances. These action plans include quick ‘must dos’ as well as clear financial priorities for the longer term – helping people both now and in the future.

“Whether constituents need online, face to face or telephone help with their finances my office has all the relevant details for the Money Advice Service so I’d urge them to get in touch or visit www.moneyadvice.org.uk.”

Tony Hobman, Chief Executive of the Money Advice Service, thanked Mr Crockart for his support, adding:

“We are grateful to Mike for raising awareness of the free services that the Money Advice Service offers. We can all enjoy life more if given the right money advice at the right time in the right way. We’re not here to sell people anything and we won’t charge anyone – we are here to help people take decisions about their money and plan for a better future for themselves and their families.”

As part of Cystic Fibrosis Week 2012 Mike Crockart has had his lung function tested to see how the result compared with someone with Cystic Fibrosis. MPs took part in the exercise to highlight the devastating impact of the condition.

Cystic Fibrosis is one of the UK’s most common inherited conditions. Over 9,000 people in the UK live with Cystic Fibrosis which affects the lungs, digestive system and pancreas, clogging them with a thick sticky mucus.

The average lung capacity for an adult with Cystic Fibrosis is just 65.1% compared to someone without Cystic Fibrosis who would achieve a result of 80% or more.

Commenting, Mike Crockart said:

“I was delighted to show my support for the Cystic Fibrosis Trust. Having my lung function tested has shown me how much more effort people with Cystic Fibrosis have to make just to take a breath.

“I hope that by raising awareness of the condition, we can help this year’s Cystic Fibrosis week be a real success. Awareness and fund raising are essential for research into this serious condition.”

Claire Francis, Policy and Public Affairs Manager at the Cystic Fibrosis Trust added:

“People with Cystic Fibrosis don’t get a second chance once the damage is done. Providing the best quality of care is crucial to maintaining lung function.

“Through our events for Cystic Fibrosis Week we hope to show politicians how the disease affects the body and how important daily treatment and expert care is to help people live longer lives and improve their quality of life.”

Edinburgh’s Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart, has welcomed the passing of the Scotland Bill which will see the largest transfer of financial powers to the Scottish Parliament since the Act of Union.

Following the unanimous vote by the Scottish Parliament to support the Scotland Bill on 18 April and approval from the UK Parliament on 26th April, the Bill received Royal Assent today.

The Act gives the Scottish Parliament multi-billion pound tax and borrowing powers and the ability to set speed limits for all types of vehicles, amend drink driving limits and control air weapons from next year.

From 2016 the Scottish Parliament will be required to set a Scottish income tax rate replace part of the existing UK tax rate and from 2015 it will set its own stamp duty and landfill taxes.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“As a Liberal Democrat I am absolutely committed to devolution and I am proud to have been a part of the Government which has seen this Bill through Westminster.

“The Act signals the greatest transfer of financial powers to Scotland since 1707 and makes the Scottish Parliament more powerful and more accountable to the Scottish people. It will enable MSPs to bring real change to Scotland in the years ahead.

“From 2016, we will pay a Scottish rate of income tax, those buying property from 2015 will pay a Scottish Stamp Duty and from next year drivers will drive at Scottish speed limits.

“These changes mean that the Scottish parliament is able to take the choices that suit the needs of Scotland.”

On 25th May, Mike will be holding a skills swap breakfast at Murrayfield Stadium.

The breakfast is part of an exciting new challenge which Mike is leading in Edinburgh West and is timed to coincide with Skills Development Scotland’s ‘Scottish Apprenticeship Week’.

The Government introduced its Youth Contract on the 2nd of April 2012 which aims to support young people into jobs. As part of this Mike wants to encourage local businesses and companies to sign up to give a young person an opportunity whether through work placement, wage subsidy or Modern Apprenticeship.

This year nearly half a million apprenticeships were available throughout the UK to give young people the skills and experience they need to be successful in the job market- more than ever before! In Scotland, through the Modern Apprenticeship programme, 25,000 new apprenticeships were created in 2011/12 with new and existing employees getting the chance to improve their skills. 25,000 more will be supported by Skills Development Scotland this year.

However, we can do much more and this is where your help is needed. Mike’s aim is to get 100 training places for young people in Edinburgh in 100 days.

Find out more?

Mike Crockart, has today lambasted the decision to remove a planning condition limiting the number of homes which can be developed in the rural west village of Kirkliston.

The Edinburgh West MP had objected to the removal of the planning condition, and argued along with the Community Council and residents that the two-hectare site should be developed as a community resource.

Following the decision to allow 70 more houses instead of a village amenity, Mr Crockart has written an open letter to Dave Anderson, Director of City Development at City of Edinburgh Council. In the letter, the Edinburgh West MP criticises the Council’s planning department for showing “a singularly unimaginative outlook” and giving “scant notice” to community views.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“This decision is hugely disappointing. Instead of allowing for a community resource, the planning department has ignored the views of residents and has instead prioritised the developer’s profit.

“The Council has said that the Community Council’s suggestions were dismissed as there were ‘no details of funding or maintenance’; but did the planning department engage the community and offer any support to discuss and develop the ideas locals had for their village? I have also asked whether any companies or groups were approached about the site, with a view to bidding for land use.

“It will come as little surprise to many that I have also enquired as to whether the developer has been asked to make a contribution to broadband infrastructure in the village. At present connection is poor, patchy or in some cases simply nonexistent.

“If the developer was made to contribute towards the cost of upgrading the exchange, this would at least be of some benefit to residents who, as it stands, will get nothing from the development deal.”

Edinburgh’s Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart, is urging people in Edinburgh to be more aware of the threat of fraud, welcoming The Devil’s in Your Details campaign launched by the National Fraud Authority, Telecommunications UK Fraud Forum and Financial Fraud Action UK.

Last year over 3,000 people reported being scammed; the real figure is thought to be significantly higher as many people are too embarrassed to admit they have been the victim of a scam.

The campaign aims to raise awareness of the importance of protecting personal information, reminding the public to be careful when sharing their details and vigilant about potential scams.

Commenting Mike Crockart said:

“People need to be aware of the threat of fraud; they don’t need to panic, but just be a little more vigilant.

“It’s easy to slip into a false sense of security and think that fraud happens to someone else. But fraudsters are experienced and often excellent psychologists, so even the most experienced web user is susceptible.

“The Devil’s in Your Details campaign is simply encouraging people to be extra careful with their details, especially when online.

“If you’re asked for more personal information than usual, sit up and take note. If you are at all suspicious then contact your local police.

“You can find out more about the campaign and spotting the signs of fraud on the ActionFraud Website at www.actionfraud.police.uk.”

Mike crockart questioned the Home Secretary, Theresa May, in the House of Commons yesterday about the deportation of radical cleric Abu Qatada.

During her statement in the Commons Theresa May confirmed that the deportation process of Abu Qatada has been resumed; adding that it is fully compliant with the ruling earlier this year from the European Court of Human Rights.

The Edinburgh MP pushed the Home Secretary to increase efforts to remove barriers which prevent cases, like that of Abu Qatada, being tried in the UK. In so doing it would remove the risk of evidence being used in trials gained by the use of torture.

Mr Crockart pressed the Secretary of State on the use of intercept evidence; one of the barriers to such cases being heard in the UK.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

“Torture is abhorrent no matter where it happens. By deporting Abu Qatada we must ensure that we do not implicitly condone such behaviour. It would appear that assurances from Jordan have reached an acceptable legal safeguard threshold which can allow this deportation to proceed.

“Any deportation must satisfy the conditions set out by the European court of human rights.

“In my opinion, deportation is still the second-best option; I want to see Abu Qatada, and others like him, tried in this country.

“The Home Secretary must increase her efforts to remove any remaining barriers to such cases being heard in the UK in the future. One of those issues is the use of intercept evidence in UK courts.

“I am pleased that a Privy Council group is considering the use of evidence gained in that way and I await the outcome of their considerations with interest.”

Read the full text of Mike's question and the Home Secretary's answer.

Mike Crockart, attended Bowel Cancer UK’s 25th Anniversary parliamentary reception yesterday. April is bowel cancer awareness month and this year the campaign is focusing on raising awareness of the symptoms and encouraging people to go to their GP if they have concerns.

Figures from NHS Lothian show that fewer people are diagnosed with bowel cancer and fewer people die from the disease than the national average for Scotland.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

“One in eighteen people are diagnosed with bowel cancer – so people in Edinburgh West must take bowel cancer seriously. By supporting Bowel Cancer UK, especially through bowel cancer awareness month 2012, I hope to encourage people in Edinburgh West to be clear on the symptoms of the UK’s second biggest cancer killer.

“The message is if in doubt, talk to your doctor.”

Former Liberal Democrat MP for the area, John Barrett, is currently undergoing treatment for bowel cancer after a sudden diagnosis last year. He urged people to take part in the NHS screening programme:

"Being diagnosed with cancer is not the worst thing that can happen to you - it can be the start of your treatment and recovery. Leaving cancer undiagnosed is much more dangerous. Participating in the screening programme might save your life - it could well have saved mine."

• To find out more about bowel cancer visit www.beatingbowelcancer.org

Mike Crockart has tabled an Early Day Motion at Westminster celebrating the success of Edinburgh’s Hibernian and Heart of Midlothian football clubs after their dramatic victories in the Scottish Cup this weekend.

The Motion also calls for the all-Edinburgh final to be played at Murrayfield Stadium.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“This will be a truly historic Scottish Cup clash; the first time the sides have met in the final since 1896. Given that it’s an all-Edinburgh final I believe that the match should be played at the Capital’s stadium rather than at Hampden Park.

“This is a fantastic opportunity for the game and I am certain that it will attract a strong home crowd – so it’d be an even more memorable occasion if it were played in the clubs’ home city.

“With Scottish Cup success and Edinburgh Rugby’s win over Toulouse, this is proving to be a wonderful sporting spring for Scotland’s capital city.”

The full text of EDM 2947

Lothian Buses have announced this week that they will end the ban on non-folding buggies being used on their buses. This comes after many years of campaigning by angry parents who formed the ‘Babies on Buses’ campaign group on Facebook.

Mike Crockart MP has been in correspondence with Lothian Buses on this issue for the past six months.

On the announcement yesterday, Mr Crockart said:

"This is a victory for common sense. I’m only sorry it took so long to reach it.

"The decision has at least finally put Lothian Buses access onto a sensible and consistent footing.

"This is an end to the uncertain lottery faced by young parents and carers when boarding Lothian Buses unsure of how the driver will interpret the rules.

" I congratulate the ‘Babies on Buses’ campaign on the reasoned way in which they have made their case. This was community activism at its best"

Mike Crockart MP has called for local amateur film makers to enter Film the House, a national competition that celebrates up-and-coming amateur film producers, directors and script writers across the UK.

Film lovers of all ages are urged to get their creative juices flowing, and submit their amateur films to Film the House.

Mr Crockart will nominate his top film from the area for the national competition, which aims to also raise awareness of the importance of intellectual property rights, film and the creative industries.

Founded by Mike Weatherley MP and supported by the British film industry, Film the House gives entrants the chance to win a screening of their film to film industry executives at the House of Commons.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

“Film the House is a great opportunity for aspiring film makers of any age looking to find a way into the industry.

With Edinburgh being the home to the International Film Festival, which will be held in June this year, it would be fitting if as many entries as possible were to come from Edinburgh.”

Stevenson College student filmmakers recently swept up a number of awards for their public awareness film organised by the road safety charity Brake’s ‘2Young2Die’ competition, so it does show that the talent is there on our doorstep.

The competition is designed to promote the wealth and variety of film in the UK. Categories include drama, thriller, action, comedy, music video, documentary, as well as a separate category for under 18s which can be any genre.

The closing date for nominations is 30th June and the winners will be announced on the 30th October at a special reception and screening of the winning film at the House of Parliament. For more information on how to apply visit www.filmthehouse.com.

Edinburgh West's MP, Mike Crockart, is lending his support to the fifth annual VQ Day – a celebration of the millions of people gaining vocational qualifications across the country every year – and encouraging local colleges, schools, businesses and learning providers to get involved.　

VQ Day 2012 will be held on Wednesday 20th June to recognise the value of vocational qualifications and celebrate vocational achievement. The day will be marked by events held at colleges, schools, businesses and learning providers across the UK, including award ceremonies and open days.

With a tough economic climate, it has never been more important to provide young people with access to high quality technical, practical and vocational courses which offer genuine job prospects. Vocational qualifications are valuable not only to individuals but to the economy, providing work ready skills, experience and the opportunity for career progression, higher pay and further education.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"Vocational qualifications provide huge benefits to the UK from improving the skills and careers of individuals to helping boost our economy. Running for the fifth year, VQ Day 2012 will highlight their increasing importance while celebrating the millions of people achieving vocational qualifications every year.　 I encourage colleges, schools, learners and employers throughout Edinburgh to join the celebrations on Wednesday 20th June."

Plans for VQ Day are being led by independent education foundation Edge, and are supported by the wider vocational education community including examination boards, employers' organisations, Scotland’s Colleges and the Association of Learning Providers.

Jan Hodges, CEO of Edge, added:

"Our economy relies heavily on people who carry real practical industry knowledge and skills. Vocational qualifications play a significant and indispensible role in our society and are crucial in building so many UK businesses. Vocational courses offer progression to further and higher education, and a chance for real success for millions of people."

Colleges, schools, learning providers and employers are urged to get involved by holding their own celebrations.　 For more information on VQ Day, and to download an action pack, please visit www.vqday.org.uk.　

Mike Crockart has spoken out against controversial plans to allow the state to snoop at will. The Edinburgh West MP is one of 16 MPs to pen a joint letter setting out their concerns at the plans.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“Liberal Democrats have a proud history of defending civil liberties, both in opposition and in Government. We opposed the Labour government's undermining of data privacy in 2009 and since taking office in 2010 we have turned back the tide of Labour's erosion of these liberties.

“So far we have destroyed the ID cards database, halted the indefinite retention of innocent peoples' DNA, turned off the ContactPoint database, stopped the mass fingerprinting of children without permission from their parents and ended child detention for immigration purposes.

“At our recent party conference we called for stronger safeguards on existing surveillance measures to safeguard the rights of ordinary citizens. Any proposed changes must be openly and publically discussed and debated and safeguards must go further than the current weak controls.

“The Liberal Democrats in Government will continue to protect civil liberties; ensuring that the state does not have the power to snoop on its citizens at will.”

The full text of the letter is:

Liberal Democrats have a proud history of defending civil liberties, both in opposition and more recently in a Coalition Government. We successfully opposed the Labour government's undermining of data privacy in 2009 and since taking office in 2010 we have turned back the tide of Labour's erosion of these liberties. So far we have destroyed the ID cards database, halted the indefinite retention of innocent peoples' DNA, turned off the ContactPoint database, stopped the mass fingerprinting of children without permission from their parents and ended child detention for immigration purposes.

Just a few months ago at our spring conference in Gateshead, we reaffirmed our commitment to "undo the damage done by Labour's assault on basic freedoms". We called for stronger safeguards on existing surveillance measures to guarantee that the balance of power is firmly in favour of ordinary citizens. We asserted the Liberal Democrats' longstanding tradition of protecting human rights, and agreed that it is "our duty to safeguard basic freedoms against the encroachment of state power". Liberal Democrats all over the country have sought to reverse the substantial erosion of individual freedoms, as the Government committed to do in the Coalition agreement in 2010.

Following worrying reports of possible government proposals to collect real-time information on people's activity online, including from social media sites, we are pleased to hear the Deputy Prime Minister making clear his commitment to civil liberties and protecting privacy, and confirming that the Government will publish draft legislation with sufficient time for consultation and pre-legislative scrutiny. It is absolutely vital that the public get a chance to see and debate the details of any proposals to extend state surveillance, not just being presented with a Home Office fait accompli. It is also essential that the initial plans include adequate safeguards – which should be stronger than the current weak controls.

Liberal Democrats in Government will not follow the last Labour government by sounding the retreat on the protection of civil liberties in the United Kingdom. It continues to be essential that our civil liberties are safeguarded, and that the state is not given the powers to snoop on its citizens at will.

Julian Huppert MP
Annette Brooke MP
Malcolm Bruce MP
Mike Crockart MP
Andrew George MP
Stephen Gilbert MP
Mike Hancock MP
John Hemming MP
John Leech MP
Greg Mulholland MP
John Pugh MP
Alan Reid MP
Adrian Sanders MP
Ian Swales MP
David Ward MP
Mark Williams MP
Roger Williams MP
 

Mike Crockart, has added his support to the British Heart Foundation petition calling on the UK Government and devolved administrations to make sure that emergency life support skills are taught to all children at school.

Commenting Mike Crockart said:

“It is vital that children learn life saving skills as well as how to respond to an emergency. As a former police officer, I know the difference that those precious minutes waiting for the emergency services can make.

“That is why I have written to the Cabinet Secretary for Education and Lifelong Learning calling on him to introduce life saving skills as a core element of the Curriculum for Excellence.

“You can add your support to the campaign on the British Heart Foundation website. The more people who sign up, the more chance there is that all children leave school having learned simple, but vital lifesaving skills.”

 Mike Crockart, today welcomed the grants programme “Young Start” launched by the Big Lottery Fund to give young people opportunities to realise their potential.

Young Start, a grant provided by the Big Lottery Fund, aims to create opportunities for children and young people aged between 8 and 24 to help them overcome barriers and achieve their full potential.

The grant is open to voluntary organisations, community groups, social enterprises, housing associations, sports organisations, co-operatives and charities. Organisations can apply for a total Young Start grant of between £10,000 and £50,000 for up to two years.

Commenting, Mike said,

“This is a fantastic opportunity for Edinburgh groups to get some financial support. The Scheme is there to support projects which can and do change young people’s lives – seeing them go on to achieve wonderful things. 

“Young Start is all about boosting confidence, getting connected, staying healthy and promoting enterprise amongst young people. I’d encourage the very many groups working with youngsters across Edinburgh to put in a bid.”

• Organisations can apply for a total Young Start grant of between £10,000 and £50,000 for up to 2 years. Young Start can fund 100 per cent of project cost. However they can also fund part of a larger project if you have other funding in place.  If the Big Fund is only funding part of a project, the total project cost should be no more than £100,000.
• You can find more information at http://www.biglotteryfund.org.uk/prog_young_start?tab=2&regioncode=-uk
• Young Start cannot accept applications from schools, statutory bodies such as local authorities or health boards, individuals and sole traders, profit-making organisations, non-departmental public bodies and government departments.
• Organisations with existing Lottery funded projects can apply to Young Start but organisations can only have one Young Start project running at a time.
• To apply organisations should read the  programme guide  carefully to make sure that the project meets one or more of the Young Start outcomes. If you have any you can contact them at enquiries.scotland@biglotteryfund.org.uk or telephone 0300 123 7110
• You can download an  application form  which can be filled in online and submitted by email. If you do not have access to email you can send your application form in the post.
  

Mike Crockart, is championing better interpreting services for Deaf British Sign Language (BSL) users. He recently spent a morning at Heriot-Watt University to discover more about the BSL course offered by the School of Management and Languages.

Mr Crockart’s constituency office is equipped with SignVideo – an online BSL interpreting service. A basic webcam is used to link to an interpreter, making the service affordable and much more convenient than traditional face-to-face interpreting which is costly and needs to be pre-arranged.

Mr Crockart is now encouraging other front-line service providers to adopt SignVideo or a similar service. His first call has been to local medical practices following a report in the Lancet Medical Journal which concluded that individuals who are deaf are twice as likely to suffer from mental health problems.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

“SignVideo has completely transformed the way I can communicate with Deaf BSL constituents. Instead of having to ‘make-do’ or rely on English, which is often a second language to Deaf BSL users, I can have a face-to-face meeting with simultaneous translation at the click of a button. The service is fast, reliable and affordable and it has already proved popular in my constituency office.

“My team and I had a course to learn some basics in BSL last week. We felt it was important to be able to make people feel welcome and at ease. It means that we are able to sign with Deaf BSL constituents about booking an appointment and taking basic information, like name and address.

“I want to encourage as many service providers as I can to adopt video interpreting. It is really worrying that people who are deaf are twice as likely to suffer from mental health problems. The Lancet report’s findings mean it is essential for medical professionals to be able to communicate clearly and effectively with Deaf BSL patients.

“I have been quite astounded by the lack of adequate BSL translating provision in Scotland; and it is time for change. 

“If anyone is thinking about using a video interpreting service, I would be happy to run a demonstration for them in my office.”

WWF’s Earth Hour is a simple idea that has become a global phenomenon, with hundreds of millions of people turning off their lights on March 31 at 8.30pm to show they want to create a brighter future for the planet. Last year 135 countries took part in addition to famous landmarks including Big Ben and Buckingham Palace in London and the India Gate in New Delhi.

The global event comes only a few weeks before another crucial appointment in the 2012 environment calendar. In June, the Brazilian city of Rio will host the environment summit. This summit is a crucial moment for world leaders to discuss vital themes for the future, such as sustainable food, water and energy, and also assess what progress has been made since the first summit twenty years ago.

In anticipation of the summit Mike Crockart commented:

“This year’s Rio conference is a chance for world leaders to commit to doing something tangible to protect the future of our planet. But taking part in Earth Hour is a small and important step that everyone can take on 31st March.

“I will be switching off at 8.30pm and I hope that many of you will join me and sign up to switch off.”

Colin Butfield, WWF’s head of campaigns added:

“Earth Hour is not about saving an hour’s electricity. It’s something much bigger. It’s about people coming together to put the focus on this brilliant world we all share – and how we need to protect it. Not just for an hour a year, but every day.”

More information on WWF’s Earth Hour

Mike Crockart proudly sported a T-shirt and trainers to complete the Westminster Mile for Sport Relief.

Over 40 MPs and Peers stepped out of Parliament and into St. James’s Park in London to complete a mile and encourage the public to take part in the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile on Sunday 25th March.

Mike’s time was a very respectable 7 minutes 12 seconds and he’ll be running again this Sunday to promote the cause once more. You too can join the Sport Relief Mile on Sunday 25th March. The meeting point will be beside St Giles Cathedral – for more information go to www.sportrelief.com.

The money raised for Sport Relief will support people living unimaginably tough lives, both on our doorstep in the UK and across the world’s poorest countries.

Commenting, Mike said:

“Running the mile was a bit of a challenge but well worth it to raise awareness for Sport Relief. I will be running the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile on Sunday with my five year old son, but at a slightly slower pace this time.

“I would encourage you all to go to the website and find out how you can get active, raise cash and change lives. I hope you will join me this Sunday and challenge my record of 7 minutes!”

• Sport Relief 2012 runs from Friday 23rd to Sunday 25th March. 
• Over one million people are expected to take part in the Sainsbury’s Sport Relief Mile
• Sport Relief is an initiative of Comic Relief, registered charity 326568 (England/Wales); SC039730 (Scotland)

Mike's support for Edinburgh's budding young entrepreneurs, has won multi-million pound backing in the 2012 Budget.

Earlier this year Sir Richard Branson had personally written to Mr Crockart on behalf of Virgin Media Pioneers – an online community of thousands of young entrepreneurs founded by Virgin Media – recommending the introduction of loans for start-up businesses on similar terms to student financing.

The Virgin Media Pioneers community wanted to challenge the convention that a young person could easily get a loan to study business, but not on equal terms to start one.

Mike Crockart MP pledged his support for the initiative.

In the 2012 Budget yesterday, Chancellor George Osborne announced the creation of a £10 million nationwide Youth Enterprise Loan Scheme pilot which will support entrepreneurship amongst young people through small, low interest, loans.

Commenting on the announcement Mike Crockart said:

“Today’s young entrepreneurs have already shown their ability to create wealth through innovation with companies here in Edinburgh like Superjam and SuperTie. Often the added benefit is that they establish those companies in their local communities, employing local people and generating local economic activity.

“We have long agreed that we should support students to maximise their potential through Higher and Further education and I now welcome this government’s commitment to help young people set up and grow their own businesses. I look forward to meeting those outstanding individuals which this proposal will help.

“The Liberal Democrats in Government have already delivered the Youth Contract which will see £1 billion invested in getting young people into work or training. Yesterday’s announcement on the scheme for enterprise loans is further evidence of our determination to prevent a lost generation.”

Sir Richard Branson, founder of the Virgin Group, added:

"This has the potential to transform the prospects of thousands of young people. The entrepreneurs of today will be the job creators of tomorrow so I’m delighted that the Government has listened to those at the very start of their careers. The country is full of gifted and enterprising people so this pilot, which crucially has business mentoring and support at its heart, will help prevent a lost generation of talent."

About Virgin Media Pioneers
• An online community for young entrepreneurs launched by Virgin Media in 2010
• Over 2,000 start-up companies across the country are involved in this free and open network
• Members share advice and mentoring as well as have access to unique business opportunities
• Find out more about Virgin Media Pioneers and the community’s recommendations

Speaking after the 2012 Budget statement Mike Crockart said that the package brought forward by the Chancellor will provide relief for working families and ensure that the richest members of society pay their fair share in tax.

In the Budget Statement, the Chancellor of the Exchequer confirmed that the government would move forward with plans to increase the income tax threshold to £10,000. Next year the threshold will increase to £9,205 in a move that will give 2.1 million people in Scotland a tax cut, with basic taxpayers keeping an additional £220 of their earnings.

The Chancellor also announced a crackdown on tax avoidance, including the introduction of a new general avoidance law, and a new rate of stamp duty on houses worth more than £2 million.

The costs of a cut in the 50p rate next year will be offset by these and other measures that will raise at least five times as much from the wealthy every year in other ways.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

“The Liberal Democrats have always maintained that it is only right that those with the broadest shoulders pay their fair share of tax. What we have seen with this Budget is a package that will provide tax cuts for working families on low and middle incomes. The Chancellor has done the right thing in listening to Liberal Democrat calls for the income tax threshold to be raised further and faster.

“In 2013, 73,000 people in Scotland will be lifted out of income tax altogether as a result of the increase in the tax threshold announced today. Increasing the threshold to £9,205 will benefit 2.1 million people on low and middle incomes north of the border: 187,000 Edinburgh residents will receive a tax cut from April 2013 and 11,200 will be lifted out of paying income tax altogether.

“What we have also seen is real action to generate the jobs that we need, with three Scottish Enterprise zones and tax reliefs for the video games industry that will benefit big employers in Edinburgh, Dundee and elsewhere. In oil and gas, we have seen tax relief for North Sea decommissioning and £3 billion in field allowances that will help open up oil and gas fields west of Shetland.

“Today’s Budget also brings £20.3 million directly to Scotland through Barnett consequentials, taking the amount of additional funding provided to Scotland by the Government since the Spending Review to more than £1 billion.

“As well as this, Edinburgh was announced as a super-connected city. This means that the capital will benefit from up to £11 million of investment to deliver ultra-fast broadband to up to 180,000 residents and 8,000 businesses and high-speed wireless connectivity to up to 486,000 residents in key areas. Of course, I will continue to work to make sure that communities in the rural west of the city don’t miss out.

“This is a budget that delivers on growth, delivers on deficit reduction and delivers on fairness.”

Budget in full

Chancellor's Budget speech

BT has today announced an expansion of super-fast broadband available in Scotland which includes a fibre upgrade for Davidson’s Mains. The upgrade will means that the high-speed service will be available for almost 4,500 homes and businesses in Davidson’s Mains by spring 2012.

Commenting on the announcement Liberal Democrat MP Mike Crockart whose constituency includes Davidson’s Mains said:

“Today’s announcement on superfast broadband is certainly good news for those served by the Davidson’s Mains exchange. The new high-speed technology can give companies a competitive edge and I am sure that this latest investment will give the area an economic boost, attracting new businesses and encouraging web based ventures.

“Of course today’s announcement comes just a day after Innerleithen was announced as one of 10 communities in the UK to triumph in BT's Race to Infinity event which saw the local community work with BT to secure a certain amount of customers and therefore an upgrade in service provision. That announcement goes to show what can be achieved if a community is willing to fight hard enough. I have had a tremendous response to my better broadband campaign, and the fight continues. Just this month I have had meetings with BT, Fujitsu and Virgin Media to discuss the problems with provision in and around Kirkliston in more detail.

“The other announcement which I hope will come in tomorrow’s Budget is success for Edinburgh’s funding bid under the Super-connected cities banner. I backed Edinburgh’s case, but highlighted the need for improvement to cover the entire city and not neglect rural parts of west Edinburgh like Kirkliston, Ratho, Dalmeny and South Queensferry.

“The Scottish Parliament’s Infrastructure and Capital Investment Committee is due to publish its report on broadband infrastructure in Scotland in early April. I very much hope that they will have taken the points I raised in my submission on board. There is a real frustration felt by those living in the rural west because their plight seems to be being forgotten whilst the rest of the city and wholly rural communities across Scotland are seeing improvements.

“The investment in Davidson’s Mains and Innerleithen will open up a whole host of opportunities and transform the way that people use the internet whether for business, homework or leisure. I very much hope that my constituents living in the rural west of the city will soon be able to enjoy broadband provision fit for the 21st century.”

Join Mike’s campaign for better broadband

Following this weekend’s speculation that a controversial plan to close Edinburgh’s historic army barracks in favour of a ‘super-barracks’ at Kirknewton has been scrapped, Edinburgh’s Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart, has restated his call for Craigiehall to be kept open as a co-located headquarters.

Commenting Mr Crockart who has led the campaign to save Edinburgh’s army estate said:

“Unanswered questions over the viability of the new base and the need for it have been piling up for the last seven months. I certainly hope that the 400 year history between our capital and the military can continue.

“Local communities like Dalmeny and Colinton will breathe a sigh of relief if the current uncertainty around local jobs, schools and the future is lifted. Of course this is true for army families alike who have had little information about the possibility of re-basing.

“In November I made the case for a future of the Edinburgh army estate and a co-located headquarters at Craigiehall to the Secretary of State for Scotland; it was a call I repeated in a Parliamentary debate in January. I said in that debate that the financial case for the sell-off and move to a 'superbarracks' doesn’t stack up, and the speculation around a decision this weekend has highlighted the unease around the proposals once again.

"The closure of the Craigiehall HQ would have a significant impact on civilians currently employed there. 103 civilian roles would be lost in Edinburgh West in addition to a loss of 89 military jobs; and with these cuts the loss of very experienced and skilled staff. I believe that there are clear efficiency savings to be made in co-locating headquarters at Craigiehall. Not only would this work at a command and cost level but it would also save the experience and skill of those at Craigiehall.

“I will continue to make a case for Craigiehall until a decision is taken by the Ministry of Defence. I will be speaking to the Secretary of State for Defence as soon as possible to discuss what a future at Craigiehall could look like.”

Mike Crockart has welcomed the move to postpone a ban on taxis and cars inside Waverley Station. Network Rail had proposed a ban from July, but agreement has been reached to delay the plan and allow time to move the taxi rank outside.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

“I wrote to The Rt Hon Theresa Villiers MP Minister of State for Transport last month asking her to work with City of Edinburgh Council in calling on Network Rail bosses to see sense and allow for a delay in implementation of the ban.

“I am pleased that rail chiefs have now seen sense and allowed a little more time for the necessary planning to take place. This was not only an issue for taxi drivers but also for those travelling to and from Edinburgh whether for work or leisure. For many, Waverley Station is their first experience in the capital and we don’t want their experience to be one of confusion and frustration. With tourism such a vital part of Edinburgh’s economy, it is far better to take the time to put a proper plan in place and ensure that the vital first impression is a good one.”

Mike Crockart has signed Oxfam’s online petition to call for an end to the violence in Syria. He has also signed Early Day Motion 2855 which calls for investigations into the Syrian regime's crimes against humanity.

With the crisis worsening every hour, Oxfam launched the urgent campaign to show the strength of support across Britain for an end to the bloodshed.

The petition calls for an immediate end to the violence insisting that humanitarian relief must be allowed in. Oxfam is also calling for no more arms or ammunition to be supplied which would further fuel human rights abuses.

Commenting Mike said:

“The killings and violence must cease immediately. The Syrian people have suffered undeservedly and it is time they were able to live peacefully without the fear of brutality; free from the shadow of oppression.

“Oxfam already has teams in countries bordering Syria preparing to deal with the emerging humanitarian crisis. We can do our bit by raising awareness of the plight of the Syrian people and showing our solidarity with them by signing the e-petition.

“I know from the many emails I have received that people in Edinburgh are shocked and deeply saddened by what is being witnessed in Syria; I am confident that many will want to add their name to the petition at www.oxfam.org.uk/syria.”

If you sign the petition please also spread the word via social media with the link http://oxfam.org.uk/syria and #syria.

The text of the petition is:

I call upon the UN Security Council to condemn the violence in Syria with one voice, to push for immediate access to humanitarian relief for vulnerable people and to ensure arms including ammunition are not supplied that could fuel further human rights abuses.
More details can be found on Oxfam's website.

Edinburgh’s Liberal Democrat MP Mike Crockart has pledged his support to WaterAid’s Water Works campaign to bring safe water and sanitation to the world’s poorest people.

Preventable diseases caused by dirty water and poor sanitation are the biggest killer of children in Africa. Illness and hours spent collecting water from distant sources keep children out of school and prevent adults from earning a living.

Safe water and sanitation transform lives, improving health and lifting communities out of poverty. As world leaders prepare to meet in Washington next month for a crucial meeting on water and sanitation, WaterAid is encouraging the public to support its Water Works campaign, which aims to highlight the importance of these basic necessities in tackling poverty. 

Commenting after attending a House of Commons event hosted by Northumbrian Water for WaterAid Mr Crockart said:

“Today the United Nations announced that the Millennium Development Goal on water has been reached.  This is excellent news and means that an additional 2 billion people have accessed clean water within the last 20 years. It shows that aid is working and that we are making progress towards eradicating illnesses, poverty and even death which can be caused by a lack of clean water.

“But, there is still a lot of work to be done: 783 million people don’t have safe water to drink, and around 2.5 billion are lacking adequate sanitation.  Not having these essential services traps people in poverty and causes serious illness.

“WaterAid is working to bring people around the world the things which we take for granted on a daily basis. The UK has a leading role to play to concentrate efforts on bringing water and sanitation to all. I would encourage everyone to show their support for the campaign by visiting www.waterworks.me.”

WaterAid Chief Executive Barbara Frost added:

“WaterAid will do all we can to reach some of the most marginalised communities in developing countries. World crisis in sanitation and water coverage will only be addressed if governments show leadership. Progress is far too slow and it will currently take around 350 years for everyone in Africa to have access to something as basic as adequate sanitation.  This just isn’t acceptable.”

WaterAid’s vision is of a world where everyone has access to safe water and sanitation.  The international organisation works in 27 countries across Africa, Asia, Central America and the Pacific region to transform lives by improving access to safe water, hygiene and sanitation in some of the world’s poorest communities. 

Over the past 30 years, WaterAid has reached 15.9 million people with safe water and, since 2004, 11 million people with sanitation.  For more information, visit www.wateraid.org , follow @wateraid on Twitter or visit the Facebook page at www.facebook.com/wateraid

• 783 million people in the world do not have access to safe water. This is roughly one in eight of the world's population.
• 2.5 billion people in the world do not have access to adequate sanitation, this is 39% of the world's population.
• For every £1 invested in water and sanitation, £8 is returned in increased productivity.
• Just £15 can enable one person to access safe water, improved hygiene and sanitation.

The cost of living has gone up over recent years, and faster than what earning have. In this economic environment it's hard for families to make ends meet. One of the areas that people can face difficulty is energy. However, with energy prices rising people don't need to face higher bills. Through energy efficiency people can save money. Insulating a home by filling a cavity, or a loft, can save a household around 175 pounds a year. Most energy companies will offer their customers free insulation; you just need to call them.

But there are those people that need that bit more help. The really vulnerable. Not only do they struggle with their bills, but they are also the least likely to come forward to get help. Help  that is readily available. This is when communities can come into their own. If you have a friend, or a relative, or just an elderly neighbour, why don't you see if they are getting their homes made warmer.

British Gas recently announced their "Share the Warmth" offer. If you find someone that meets their criteria for insulation, they'll give you 50 pounds for your troubles. They'll also insulate the house of the vulnerable customer, and then give them 50 pounds as well. Neither of you even needs to be a British Gas customer. All you need do is get your friend or relative to call 0800 975 1195, let them know you referenced them, and the get paid.

This is a great opportunity for our community to come together and help those that need help. I hope you'll be able to find some who can access this programme.  To find out more about visit www.sharethewarmth.co.uk

Edinburgh's Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart, has backed 'The Big Switch' campaign for energy customers to get a cheaper deal. 

The Big Switch, launched last month by Which? and 38 Degrees, is a completely new way for people to buy their energy. This will be the first time in the UK that a large number of people will join together as a group to negotiate a deal with energy companies.

Mike is urging local people to join the more than 200,000-strong group who have already signed up to The Big Switch, and to use their collective power to cut their energy bills and help shake up the market.

Which? has invited all energy companies to take part and will be negotiating with them to secure the cheapest deal. Energy companies will be asked to submit a market leading deal and take part in a reverse auction. Once a deal is secured, Which? will contact everyone who signed up with a personalised savings estimate. Which? will handle the switching process, making it as quick and easy as possible.

People can join The Big Switch until 31 March via www.whichbigswitch.co.uk

Commenting on the campaign Mr Crockart said:

"We all know what an impact rising energy bills have had on family finances. The Big Switch is a unique scheme which harnesses collective consumer power to push suppliers into negotiating a better deal.

"So many people are put off switching supplier or tariff because the information out there is difficult to understand and people fear that they may be worse off. That is why I am running a plain language campaign to get government departments and companies using clear, concise language which actually means something to people.

"The great thing with The Big Switch is that Which? will handle the negotiations and the switching process for you. Plus, the more people sign up the better the bargaining power!  I'd encourage everyone to join at www.whichbigswitch.co.uk."

The UK Government has today announced that Edinburgh will be home to the UK's Green Investment Bank.

Commenting on the announcement Mike Crockart said:

"The Business Secretary has today made the right decision and made it for the right reasons. For the past 16 months I have been arguing that Edinburgh is the best choice for the location of the Green Investment Bank because of its strength in depth in both financial services and green technology. It is this co-location that will make the bank a success and make Edinburgh a European centre of excellence for green investment.

"Throughout that time I have been championing Edinburgh as the natural home of the Green Investment Bank. The city's bid team put together an exceptional case for our capital and today's announcement reflects that.

"Edinburgh's case was supported by a group which started with the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce but grew to encompass more than 25 partners representing the best from the public and private sectors. Edinburgh's team has set the agenda from the start and helped to clarify the criteria for siting the ground-breaking institution.

"The bank will play a vital role in our transition to a low-carbon economy and will provide a welcome boost to the city's economy, bringing with it an initial 3 billion pounds to invest in green projects as well as the creation of 50-70 jobs by 2015.

"The investment bank is another way in which the Liberal Democrats in Government are working to rebalance our economy; making it more sustainable whilst also meeting green credentials. 

"In his speech on the future of Scotland in Edinburgh the Prime Minister described Scotland as a 'pioneering country'. Today the UK Government has demonstrated its belief in Edinburgh as a pioneer of the green revolution and a vital part of the UK's drive towards a sustainable and green future."

BIS press statement

Written Ministerial Statement by Vince Cable

Location of Green Investment Bank outcome review

Mike's campaign site - A big green boost: Give the green investment bank to Edinburgh

Commenting on the announcement that 36 of the 54 current Remploy factories could close, Edinburgh's Liberal Democrat MP said:

"This is a very difficult time for those working at Remploy sites across the UK. One of the factories facing possible closure is in my constituency.

"I know from speaking to constituents who work at the Edinburgh factory what Remploy means to them. If the factory were to close I am in no doubt that it would be very difficult for the individuals who work there.

"I have already written to the Government to make the case for the Edinburgh Remploy site and will now urgently be in touch with the local DWP office to ensure that everything possible will be done to guarantee quality training and support for anyone affected by this decision."

Edinburgh's Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart, has today written to Jeremy Hunt, Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport urging him to support Edinburgh's application for funding under the super-connected cities banner.

Edinburgh City Council has put in a tiered bid which sets out a menu of possible improvements to Edinburgh's broadband and wireless capacity.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

"A super-connected capital will benefit businesses, individuals and our capital as a whole. Edinburgh has specific challenges: its World Heritage status, high number of research institutions, universities and festivals.

"Each year our capital attracts 3.52 million visitors every year, temporarily housing 2,500 businesses at festival time and the city's bid for funding recognises the need to meet these unique challenges as well as serving Edinburgh's indigenous population.

"I hope that the Minister recognises these unique challenges and agrees to the top tier proposed by Edinburgh Council.

"Of course it is crucial that any improvement to provisions covers the entire city and does not neglect rural parts of west Edinburgh like Kirkliston, Ratho, Dalmeny and South Queensferry. Residents and businesses need broadband which is quick, reliable and fit for the 21st century.

"From the discussions I have had with broadband providers I understand that one of the key challenges in rural areas is the distance between communities. Infrastructure already exists joining those communities and if restrictions relating to the use of roadside, network rail and electricity distribution networks were eased, then I believe that the cost of delivering a broadband infrastructure would be significantly improved. This is a point I have raised with the Minister and I look forward to his reply."

You can join Mike's 'Better Broadband' campaign at www.mikecrockartmp.com

Edinburgh West MP Mike Crockart has applauded the good work of Epilepsy Scotland by signing Early Day Motion 2808 which was tabled by Ian Davidson MP for Glasgow South. The Early Day Motion commends the tool developed by Epilepsy Scotland to assist employers who have employees who suffer from the condition.

More than half a million people in the UK currently suffer from epilepsy, which is around 1 in 100 people. Anyone can develop the condition but it is most commonly diagnosed in children and people over 65. 

Employers across the UK can now use a free occupational health guide developed by Epilepsy Scotland to help any existing employees or new recruits with epilepsy.  This handy new resource, presented to MPs and Peers in Westminster at a reception hosted by Scottish Liberal Democrat MP Alan Reid, covers legal responsibilities and how to handle the most common workplace issues.  It provides both the employer and the employee with information as to how best to deal with epilepsy in the workplace.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

"The work carried out by organisations such as Epilepsy Scotland is priceless. Epilepsy is a serious condition which affects the daily lives of thousands in the UK.

"Developing this tool to help employers in supporting their employees with epilepsy is a great way of highlighting the condition as well as showing that people can continue in their chosen occupation despite the illness.

"The initiative will also help work colleagues who do not have the condition to understand more about epilepsy and how to deal with someone having a seizure. Anything which helps people to better understand the condition must be welcomed. 

"Awareness of epilepsy, seizure triggers and the appropriate first aid response could be much more widespread than it is; Epilepsy Scotland is doing great work to re-address the balance."
 
Full text of EDM 2808

Commenting on the announcement by Scottish Government Transport Minister, Keith Brown, that the public will be allowed to name the new Forth Crossing, Edinburgh's Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart, said:

"I have said for many months that local residents should be able to put forward suggestions for the name of the new crossing.

"Those living closest to the project will have to put up with a lot of disturbance over the coming months and years and I think it is absolutely right that they get a say in the legacy of the bridge by putting forward suggestions for its name.

"I know that the consultation is open to all across Scotland, but I really hope that the panel will consider the entries of local residents from South Queensferry very carefully."

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, had his say on plans to make it easier for consumers to seek out the best energy deal at an event organised by the regulator Ofgem.

Under proposals from Ofgem, each energy supplier will have to offer a no frills tariff with a simple unit price and a fixed standing charge.

Approximately 75 per cent of consumers are on these standard tariffs and will have the opportunity to benefit from these changes.

Standardised price information would allow people to compare standard tariffs with other more innovative tariffs. This will help them to get the best deal for them.

The energy companies would also be required to make their bills, annual statements and other communications to their customers clearer and easier to understand.

They would also be bound by new enforceable standards of conduct.

After hearing more about the plans which could be introduced later this year at an event in the House of Commons, Mike Crockart MP signed a poster in support of the reforms.

Mike Crockart said:

"There are so many tariffs around that it's really confusing for families to choose the right one. Energy prices are a huge drain on people's finances at the moment so anything which helps people to be clearer about what they are spending is most welcome.

"This move would also remove much of the baffling jargon from communications around energy charges. This is a very welcome step that we should replictae across financial projects and the provision of government services."

Ofgem is currently consulting on its proposals for both the domestic and non-domestic energy market. The proposals were drawn up after research by Ofgem identified competition was being stifled by a combination of complex tariffs, poor supplier behaviour and a lack of transparency.

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, today called on local retailers to support the 'No ID, No Sale!' campaign which seeks to ensure that only adults can buy lottery, tobacco and other age-restricted goods.  Mike was speaking at Scotmid Co Operative, Drumbrae, where he was joined by Store Manager Fraser Purvis, Scotmid Compliance Officer, Ian Lovie and CitizenCard's Chief Executive Andrew Chevis.

Mr Crockart said that schemes such as CitizenCard were essential:

"I already have 514 CitizenCard cardholders in my constituency but I am urging all young adults in Edinburgh West to obtain a CitizenCard or a YoungScot Card that contains the police-endorsed PASS hologram.  Only then can retailers fully implement the 'No ID, No Sale!' policy which allows adults to buy whatever they wish whilst ensuring that children cannot buy alcohol, tobacco and other restricted goods."

Fraser Purvis who is store manager is mindful that they face a fine of up to 10,000 pounds if caught persistently selling restricted products to under 18s:

"We have no wish to supply cigarettes or age-restricted products to children and we offer our younger customers a CitizenCard form which means they can prove their age.  Every week we face dozen of attempts to buy tobacco by young people and if they cannot present valid ID we always refuse the sale."

More than two million CitizenCards have been issued across the UK since the scheme was launched by then Home Office Minister George Howarth in February 1999. The Scottish government supports the Police endorsement of CitizenCard, YoungScot Card and other cards bearing the PASS hologram.

The UK Government is expected to announce the location of the Green Investment Bank next week. 32 locations across the UK submitted bids to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills earlier this year.

Edinburgh put together a business case with the bid team drawing on the expertise of both the public and private sector.

Mike Crockart, Edinburgh's Liberal Democrat MP, has been central to the bid and submitted the document to the Government along with Mark Lazarowicz MP for Edinburgh North and Leith last month.

At Prime Minister's Questions today, Mr Crockart pressed David Cameron on the issue asking whether he agreed that Edinburgh is the 'perfect location' for the bank.
Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

"With one week to go until the UK Government announces the location of the Green Investment Bank, all eyes are on Edinburgh.

"The team put together a compelling case for the capital, bringing the very best of public and private sector know-how and experience together. This is the culmination of 16 months of work by the bid team which started with the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce but has grown to encompass more than 25 partners including Scottish Financial Enterprise and Scottish Enterprise.

"We have met regularly with BIS Ministers and Officials in both London and Edinburgh since formally launching our bid in March last year in Westminster. By doing so it is clear that Edinburgh's team has set the agenda and helped to clarify the criteria for siting a successful institution such as this.

"The bank is a ground-breaking initiative and one which will be a vital contribution to the transition to a low-carbon economy. Scotland is leading the way in that field, and of all the Cities in the running, Edinburgh is the only one which has the necessary skills and experience in both the financial and renewable sectors. This co-location of financial and green sectors in the City means it is uniquely placed to act as a springboard for international low-carbon ventures.

"The bank would be good news for the economy too bringing with it an initial 3 billion pounds as well as the creation of 50-70 jobs by 2015. The benefits of the bank would be felt across Scotland and crucially would attract other investors and industry to think about Edinburgh as a base; further enhancing Edinburgh's reputation as a global financial and technological hub.

"Today the Prime Minister agreed that Edinburgh is a great city but obviously didn't give any further indication of the forthcoming decision. In his speech last week the Prime Minister described Scotland as a 'pioneering country all its life'. That sounds like a compelling argument for basing the Green Investment Bank right here.

"Scotland's capital is the natural home of the UK's Green Investment Bank - I very much hope that the Business Secretary agrees."

The full text of Mike's question at Prime Minister's Questions today:

In his speech made in Edinburgh last week the Prime Minister rightly described Scotland as a 'pioneering country all its life' and a 'turbine hall of the industrial revolution'. The next pioneering revolution will be in green technology and the Green Investment Bank will be key in its promotion. Having now visited Edinburgh does he agree that it is the perfect location for this institution?

Ryanair has announced that it will axe five routes operating from Edinburgh Airport, saying it is too expensive to operate out of the capital.

The budget airline currently runs 40 routes from Edinburgh but from April they are reducing traffic by 15 per cent - a reduction of 300,000 passengers.

The routes being axed are Berlin, Malmo, Murcia, Ibiza and Tallinn.

Commenting on the announcement, Mike Crockart MP said:

"It is hugely disappointing that Ryanair has decided to cut five routes - two of which are currently operating with the remaining three due to commence this summer - from our capital's airport. This is bad news for tourism, business and of course passenger choice.

"I understand that negotiations between Edinburgh Airport and Ryanair were extensive but that common ground could not be found on some points. I think BAA Edinburgh is right to say that Ryanair has to operate on the same basis as its other carriers.

"There is no doubt that Ryanair's decision comes at an uncertain time for the airport as it tries to attract buyers; but I know that the airport has managed to reach mutually beneficial long term agreements with a number of other carriers to secures their future at Edinburgh's airport.

"Ryanair has warned that the cuts will have a knock-on effect of 300 job losses in the capital. I know that there is some dispute over this number and that the airport is seeking clarification on this. BAA employs 485 staff at Edinburgh Airport and Ryanair has given an assurance that none of its staff will be out of work. I am therefore unsure of where the figure of 300 has come from. Nevertheless, it is an anxious time for staff and I urge BAA Edinburgh and Ryanair to do all they can to prevent job losses.

"Michael O'Leary, Chief Executive of Ryan Air is in Parliament today to address the All Party Aviation Group. I plan to attend that meeting and speak to Mr O'Leary."

Commenting as Virgin Atlantic makes an official complaint to the European Commission,  Mike Crockart MP, said:

"Air links between Edinburgh and London are vital for businesses and tourists alike. The proposed deal raises serious concerns around competition and passenger choice.

"It's not simply an issue about direct flights between Scotland�s major cities and London Heathrow, but also about the potential impact on competition for connecting routes to the rest of the world.

"I was pleased to co-sponsor an Early Day Motion at Parliament which calls on the UK competition authorities to scrutinise the deal to ensure that any issues are fully understood and addressed."

Commenting on the announcement that Edinburgh Airport has been rated among the top in the world in an independent survey of passenger satisfaction, Edinburgh's Liberal Democrat MP Mike Crockart said:

"I'm delighted that Edinburgh Airport was voted in 2nd place in Europe. As someone who uses the airport on a regular basis, I can confidently say that the award is rightful recognition of the excellent facilities and services.  The airport is of immense value to the local area and I look forward to its continued success."

Edinburgh's Lib Dem MP and member of the Joint Committee on Human Rights, Mike Crockart, has tabled an Early Day Motion in the House of Commons to see an end to human safaris.

The Liberal Democrat MP, with support from Dan Rogerson MP, tabled the EDM after new evidence came to light which showed 'human safaris' were still happening. Survival International has campaigned to stop this disgusting practice for many years.

The motion calls for the Indian government to take immediate action to close the Andaman Trunk Road and to comply with the 2002 Indian Supreme Court ruling. The road runs through the Jarawa reserve and this access to the tribe is a major cause of the exploitation. The Supreme Court ordered the road to close in 2002, however it continues to operate illegally. Since Survival International drew attention to the practice of 'human safaris' in 2010 there has been wide spread international condemnation.

Commenting Mike Crockart said:

"It is a matter of basic human rights, it is not humane or morally right for the Jarawa tribe to be exploited in such a disgusting way. They are human beings; however they are being abused and treated as if they are animals. The latest video showing young girls being told to dance for food is simply abhorrent.

"The recording and video evidence clearly show that the authorities are aware of the Andaman Trunk Road operating illegally, but they are doing nothing about it. We must urge and persuade the Indian government to take action quickly and do everything it can before another tribe is wiped out."

Survival International's Director, Stephen Corry said:

"This new video released by the Observer shows current precautions by the Andaman authorities are not working. It's time the government got to the root of the problem, which is the road: it must be closed."

 Last year, Mike Crockart, Edinburgh's Liberal Democrat MP welcomed an announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, of a new Coastal Communities Fund to support the economic development of coastal communities, which includes 4 million pounds for Scotland.

The Fund will support a wide range of projects, including those that focus on charities, the environment, education and health.

The Secretary of State for Communities and Local Government has today launched a prospectus giving details of the design and delivery arrangements for the new fund.

The fund will be administered by the Big Lottery and more detailed guidance for grant applicants will be issued in the near future. The prospectus can be downloaded from http://tiny.cc/jp17h

Commenting Mike Crockart said:

"The new Fund demonstrates the Government's commitment to support coastal places now and in the future. Coastal communities, like South Queensferry in my constituency, have always been and continue to be of great importance to Scotland not just in financial terms but also culturally.

"The Fund to support economic development will be open from April and innovative bids from charities, businesses, social enterprises and local organisations will be welcome.

"I hope that South Queensferry will be part of this exciting new opportunity."

Mike Crockart, Edinburgh's Liberal Democrat MP has today written to Alex Salmond calling on him to "set a better tone" in the debate around Scottish Independence.

This follows the First Minister having referred to a BBC Adviser as a "Gauleiter" - a term for a regional Nazi Party leader - over the weekend.

Mr Crockart said:

"The BBC has a duty to remain impartial in the run up to such a key constitutional decision as that over independence. This responsibility will be difficult to maintain over the long timetable set by the SNP, which will run for the next 34 months.

"It's clear that both sides will not agree with every decision made by the BBC: indeed many Scots supporters of the Union will have raised their eyebrows at the wisdom of inviting Mr Salmond to be a rugby pundit in the first place.

"But if the response of either side, especially its leaders, is to indulge in petulant, offensive name-calling, then this debate will never rise to the thoughtful level required for such a decision.

"Alex Salmond should apologise immediately and ensure that he and all of his supporters accept that views different from his and his party are not unpatriotic, anti-Scottish or, by inference, Nazi. His party's win last year has set the debate for the foreseeable future; he now needs to set a better tone."

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West is to table an Early Day Motion recognising the Forth Rail Bridge being presented the exclusive gold Blue Peter Badge.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"This is a fitting tribute to the Rail Bridge and to those who risked and lost their lives in its construction.

"That the Bridge is the first manmade structure to receive the award, joining one of the most exclusive clubs, is recognition of its world-class engineering. It's wonderful that Edinburgh West is home to such an iconic structure."

Commenting after the launch of Scotland's Digital Future: Infrastructure Action Plan Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West said:

"This is a start to improving services across Scotland and that is welcome. There has been a lot of new funding made available for broadband development as a result of the UK budget and I am pleased to see that the Scottish Government now has a plan to use that.

"Nevertheless, the delay in the Scottish Government�s plan is a little disappointing - 68.8 million was made available to the Scottish Government in August!

"I have been running a campaign in the rural west of my constituency to ensure that they benefit from digital investment. Kirkliston, Ratho, Dalmeny and South Queensferry all have problems with patchy, slow and unreliable broadband. This is just unacceptable in this day and age and it needs to change.

"That is why I have been working with providers, Edinburgh Council and constituents to try to secure improvements for my constituents in the rural west. In fact I have meetings with BT and Edinburgh Council to discuss the matter next month.

"I was also pleased to prepare a report for the Scottish Parliament's Infrastructure and Capital Investment Committee which highlighted the problems my constituents face and my arguments for making the necessary improvements in infrastructure.

"Unfortunately, the response to the call for evidence was not received by locally elected Members as well as I would have hoped - I think I was the only one to actually respond. I hope that attendance for Thursday's debate on the issue at Holyrood will be more positive and I look forward to listening to the Members' contributions.

"I'm pleased to champion this issue and work until each and every person in my constituency has access to broadband which is fit for the 21st century."

� Mike's submission to the Committee can be found at:
http://www.scottish.parliament.uk/S4_InfrastructureandCapitalInvestmentCommittee/Inquiries/Mike_Crockart_MP.pdf
� The Action Plan is at http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Publications/2012/01/1487/downloads

Mike Crockart, MP for Edinburgh West, has tabled an Early Day Motion celebrating the success of Murrayfield-based Edinburgh Rugby in the Heineken Cup. The team's win against London Irish means they are the first Scottish team to make the quarter finals of the premier club competition in eight years.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

"I'm absolutely delighted for the team on their well deserved victory and progression through to the quarter finals. Not only have they worked incredibly hard for their place in the last eight, but they have also managed to secure home advantage. It is no mean feat!

"Of course we shouldn't forget the near 11,000 people who supported the team at their last outing. I would encourage residents from across Edinburgh and beyond to join the burgeoning black and red army by attending the quarter final with Toulouse on 7th April.

"Edinburgh Rugby's success is not only a boost for the team but for Scottish rugby as a whole. The fact that tickets have already sold out for Scotland's opening match in the 2012 RBS Six Nations against England demonstrates the good health of Scottish rugby. Saturday's crowd will be a sell-out 67,000.

"At a time when we are trying to encourage people of all ages to participate in sport and live a more active life, the high profile achievement of the Edinburgh team really does help. I am sure that Edinburgh Rugby will have many more fans by spring."

The full text of Early day motion 2658

Commenting after the launch of Scotland's Digital Future: Infrastructure Action Plan Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West said:

"This is a start to improving services across Scotland and that is welcome. There has been a lot of new funding made available for broadband development as a result of the UK budget and I am pleased to see that the Scottish Government now has a plan to use that.

"Nevertheless, the delay in the Scottish Government's plan is a little disappointing - 68.8 million pounds was made available to the Scottish Government in August!

"I have been running a campaign in the rural west of my constituency to ensure that they benefit from digital investment. Kirkliston, Ratho, Dalmeny and South Queensferry all have problems with patchy, slow and unreliable broadband. This is just unacceptable in this day and age and it needs to change.

"That is why I have been working with providers, Edinburgh Council and constituents to try to secure improvements for my constituents in the rural west. In fact I have meetings with BT and Edinburgh Council to discuss the matter next month.

"I was also pleased to prepare a report for the Scottish Parliament's Infrastructure and Capital Investment Committee which highlighted the problems my constituents face and my arguments for making the necessary improvements in infrastructure.

"Unfortunately, the response to the call for evidence was not received by locally elected Members as well as I would have hoped - I think I was the only one to actually respond. I hope that attendance for Thursday's debate on the issue at Holyrood will be more positive and I look forward to listening to the Members' contributions.

"I'm pleased to champion this issue and work until each and every person in my constituency has access to broadband which is fit for the 21st century."

� Mike's submission to the Committee can be found at http://tiny.cc/ugfn2
� The Action Plan is at http://tiny.cc/5rppx

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart has today welcomed the decision to shortlist Edinburgh as a 'pioneer' city to set up a local TV Station.

65 cities submitted bids to be selected for the license. The Department for Culture, Media and Sport then selected 20 'pioneer' cities after the responses to the consultation had been considered. Twenty-four other cities are due to be considered in the second wave.

The legislation, which had come under criticism from the Scottish Government for not going far enough in terms of local programming, was laid down in the House of Commons today. The next consultation will last approximately 8-12 weeks at the end of which the shortlisted areas will be awarded their license.   

Speaking in the Statutory Instrument debate, Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart, welcomed the success of Edinburgh, but also raised concerns over the funding and practicality of the stations.

Mike Crockart questioned DCMS Minister Ed Vaizey about the funding for the local stations. Although they will be self-sustaining and reliant upon advertising for income, there is a worry that the need to raise advertising receipts will take money away from other Scottish media rather than generating new income.

Commenting, the Edinburgh West MP said:

"I am delighted that Edinburgh has been named as a pioneer city. 

"UK media has become over centralised and doesn't serve local areas the way it should. Today's announcement is a big step forward in bringing communities across the UK, relevant home-grown programming.

"An Edinburgh-based TV station will allow residents to watch news and programmes which are pertinent to their lives.

"The next job is to make sure that the very many rural communities around Edinburgh, like Ratho and Kirkliston in my constituency, are included in scheduling. There is a fear that programming will be centred on the city, neglecting the views of those in more rural areas. To allow such isolation would simply be swapping one kind of centralised programming for another.

"Of course, to ensure the stations' sustainability their income will come, for the large part, from advertising. To attract these revenues the station must produce and broadcast quality programmes which Edinburgh's residents want to watch. I think we can look forward to some first-class broadcasting!"

Two of Edinburgh's MPs have today delivered the City's bid to the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills. Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West and Mark Lazarowicz MP for Edinburgh North and Leith have been pushing the capital's case since the announcement of the bank last year. Today they met at the entrance of the Department which will make the decision on the bank's location to hand over the City's case.

Commenting Mike Crockart said:

"I'm delighted to be here today to hand over Edinburgh's bid for the UK's Green Investment Bank. This is the culmination of many months of work by the Edinburgh group and I know that our case is compelling.

"I have worked with leaders from the world of business to make certain that they are a part of Edinburgh's case. Their input has been invaluable and I would like to thank them for their efforts.
 
"Of all the Cities in the running, Edinburgh is the only one which has the necessary skills and experience in both the financial and renewable sectors. We know that our capital is the natural home of the bank - I very much hope that the Business Secretary agrees."

Mr Lazarowicz added:

"The Green Investment Bank would provide a much needed boost to Scotland and Edinburgh. It brings with it not only the promise of investment but also the prospect for job creation. This is what Scotland needs to help to give our economy a boost.

"Leith in my constituency has just been named as a low carbon and renewable enterprise zone � it is recognition of the knowledge and skills we have in the industry and certainly adds weight to Edinburgh's case. 
 
"Today is a unique opportunity for Edinburgh and I know that the case we have put forward reflects the City's passion to play host to the first Green Investment Bank."

� Edinburgh's business case in full 

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West will today take part in a debate on the progress of defence reform and the Strategic Defence and Security Review.

Since Dr Liam Fox, then Secretary of State for Defence, announced the closure of Edinburgh's historic army estate, Mr Crockart has argued the case for Craigiehall in his constituency as well as the City's Redford and Dreghorn barracks.

Commenting ahead of today's debate, the Edinburgh West MP said:

"I have been running a campaign calling on the MOD to re-think their proposals. I made the case for a future for Craigiehall to the Secretary of State for Scotland in November and I hope to be able to speak today to restate that call.

"I have asked over 80 Parliamentary Questions but there are still no real answers to many of the fundamental financial questions. It puts the financial case for the sell-off and move to a 'superbarracks' on a very shoogily peg.

"I think that the capacity review currently underway will reveal that many aspects of the present proposals are simply undeliverable.

"The closure of the Craigiehall HQ would have a significant impact on civilians currently employed there. 103 civilian roles would be lost in Edinburgh West in addition to a loss of 89 military jobs; and with these cuts the loss of very experienced and skilled staff.

"I believe that there are clear efficiency savings to be made in co-locating headquarters at Craigiehall. Not only would this work at a command and cost level but it would also save the experience and skill of those at Craigiehall.

"I urge the MOD to think again."

Find out more about the campaign and how you can join.

Top executives could see their pay and bonuses clawed back if their company fails under the new proposals made by Business Secretary Vince Cable.

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, welcomed yesterday's announcement, especially those proposing increased transparency and power for shareholders.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"The fundamental principle must be that executive pay reflects company performance. 

"It is right that high salaries should be justified to shareholders and that those who take excessive risk are not rewarded for their failure. 

"The evidence for this much needed reform is very clear to me and every other taxpayer. Business and investors also recognise that there is a disconnect between top pay and company performance.

"It is high time that something is done to tackle the reward for failure culture that has been a part of too many of our biggest companies for far too long. I am proud to be part of the Liberal Democrat government that has tackled that head on.

"The Business Secretary's announcement could not have been made at a more appropriate time given the High Court case next week. In it, 107 bankers are suing Commerzbank for 1.6 million pounds in bonuses to be paid for a period when they delivered the worst results in Dresdner Kleinwort's 137 year history. They should examine their consciences and think again."

Mike Crockart, MP for Edinburgh West, joined volunteers from the International Diabetes Federation (IDF), Bayer and Novo Nordisk to raise awareness of the increasing prevalence of diabetes in the UK. 

The MP attended a diabetes testing event in Parliament following on from the success of World Diabetes Day held last November. Diabetes is a significant and growing health issue, affecting over 300 million people worldwide. 

The IDF believes that, unless action is taken, this could rise to 500 million within a generation. The IDF and its member organisations - which include Diabetes UK - is working to improve the political and public awareness of the diabetes pandemic and the critical interventions that are necessary to counter it. 

Around 2.9 million people have been diagnosed with diabetes in the UK, but it is estimated that a further 850,000 people may be living with the condition without realising it.  This means that around 1 in 16 people in the UK are living with the disease - or approximately 5,770 people in the average constituency. 

If diagnosed early, diabetes can be actively managed to help mitigate the serious consequences of the disease. Mr Crockart had a diabetes test and met healthcare professionals at a special event in Westminster to find out more about the disease.  The event was held with the support of healthcare companies Bayer and Novo Nordisk.

Mike Crockart said:

"I'm delighted to be supporting the work of the International Diabetes Federation in raising awareness of diabetes in Parliament.  Diabetes is a growing health problem both in the UK and around the world, but if it is detected early then it can be actively managed. I would encourage anyone who is concerned about diabetes to speak to their GP about having a blood glucose test, as I did yesterday.  It only takes a few minutes, but it could save you years of illness."

Sir Michael Hirst, President-Elect of the IDF added:

"We welcome the support of Mike Crockart MP in raising awareness of diabetes through our parliamentary event.  Last November millions of people around the globe came together to mark World Diabetes Day.  We hope that the two-day event helps create further awareness in the UK of the condition and its consequences."

Commenting on the event, Viggo Birch, Managing Director of Novo Nordisk Ltd said:

"At Novo Nordisk, we are committed to fighting diabetes and advancing diabetes care for the benefit of the growing numbers of people living with the condition. The public, private and third sectors must continue working together to make progress in the fight against the diabetes pandemic.  Awareness days such as this are a step towards ensuring that those living with this chronic disease in the UK, receive the optimum care that they truly deserve."

A Bayer spokesperson said:

"As a market leader in the field of blood glucose monitoring systems, Bayer is delighted to be involved in the International Diabetes Federation awareness day.  Diabetes is an issue that affects people across the UK. By working closely with Members of Parliament, we hope they will take the message back to their constituents and aid in raising awareness."

Scotrail today ran the 07:58 service from Fife to Edinburgh with six carriages. Local MP Mike Crockart who has contacted rail bosses almost daily since the matter was brought to his attention welcomed the move saying:

"This is excellent news for commuters from Dalmeny. I have been in touch with Scotrail bosses virtually daily since the issue was raised with my office.

"During a telephone call yesterday I was told that a six carriage service would not run until Monday so I was very pleased that this morning's train was actually back up to its normal capacity. It just shows what a bit of local pressure can do!"

Mike Crockart is joining the BUAV in marking the first anniversary of the No Cruel Cosmetics campaign to end animal testing for toiletries and cosmetic products sold in the EU.
 
Despite UK and EU bans on animal testing for cosmetics, products can still be tested on animals in other parts of the world and then imported and sold in the EU.  A marketing ban which would end this cruelty is due to come into effect in 2013. However, it is now in danger of being delayed, thereby putting thousands more animals at risk, who will continue to suffer and die needlessly in cruel tests for new beauty products sold in the EU.

A delay could mean that hundreds of thousands more rabbits, guinea pigs, mice and rats will be injected, gassed or force-fed cosmetics worldwide for new beauty products sold in the EU, including the UK.

The coming weeks will be critical as an announcement is expected shortly from the European Commission regarding its proposal for the 2013 ban. The BUAV believes, however, that the Commission plans to respond to our pressure by keeping the 2013 deadline, but it may seek to introduce exemptions.

Over one hundred and fifty thousand people across the UK and EU, including Mike Crockart MP, have already signed the No Cruel Cosmetics petition which is being sent to the European Parliament. The BUAV petition can be signed at www.NoCruelCosmetics.org.
 
Mike Crockart MP said: 
 
"The European Commission should listen to the No Cruel Cosmetics campaign and implement the 2013 ban to end the cruel use of animals to test products sold in the EU."
 
Michelle Thew, Chief Executive of BUAV, added: 
 
"We are delighted to have support from Mike Crockart MP for our campaign to end cruel tests on animals for beauty products sold in the EU. Testing on animals is cruel and unnecessary. Please sign our petition to the European Parliament at www.nocruelcosmetics.org." 

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West has tabled an Early Day Motion to celebrate the Royal Highland Show on being voted the top show in the UK by readers of Farmers Guardian. Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"I'm delighted that the hard work of the Royal Highland and Agricultural Society of Scotland has been recognised with this accolade. It demonstrates the level of support that the show has, not only in Scotland but across the UK.

"To come out top against competition like the Great Yorkshire Show and the Royal Welsh is a reflection of how hard the Society works year round to co-ordinate the show and its efforts to bring new things to the experience of visitors each year. I visit with my young son each summer and it really is a super day out - he has a great time!

"Of course, the Society does more than the show and this award is for me as much about recognising its role in supporting the very best standards in agriculture, forestry and stewardship of the countryside, which are an essential part of Scotland's heritage and future.

"The role played by the Royal Highland Educational Trust is particularly important. The Trust aims to give every child in Scotland the opportunity to learn about food, farming and the countryside through visits, estate days and classroom talks. Craigie's Farm at South Queensferry is one of the farms which takes part in the scheme to provide this valuable education.

"I am sure that the Society and the Show will continue to evolve - not only growing the show's status as an important trade fair but also its work in educating and informing the public about farming, food and rural issues in Scotland."

New figures released today show that unemployment in Scotland rose by 19,000 to 231,000 in the three months from September to November 2011. This puts the Scottish unemployment rate at 8.6%; higher than the UK average of 8.4%.

Commenting on the statistics, Edinburgh West MP Mike Crockart said:

"Today's figures are uneasy reading and are particularly worrying for Scotland.

"They demonstrate very clearly why we need to focus on building our economy and creating jobs. We need to make sure that we continue to make decisions which will help businesses and boost our economy.

"Tackling youth unemployment is a major factor in getting people back into work and the economy back on its feet. Earlier this month we introduced the Youth Contract, a 1 billion pound initiative aimed directly at getting young people into work. It is practical measures like this which Scotland needs right now.

"In Edinburgh West the number of unemployed people claiming Job Seekers Allowance sat at 1,592 which is 5 lower than in November 2011. It is not a huge difference but it is a small change in the right direction.

"I will continue to work with businesses across the constituency to try to find opportunities for young people to gain work experience and training. I am pleased that Secretary of State for Scotland, Michael Moore, will Chair a national event aimed at tackling youth unemployment in March.

"I hope that the Scottish Government will concentrate on building a strong and sustainable economy and job creation over the coming months and will work productively with the UK government to that end. That is what Scotland needs."

Local MP, Mike Crockart, has contacted Scotrail again today over the chaos commuters at Dalmeny station are facing.

Last week, the Edinburgh West MP was told by Scotrail management that the Edinburgh bound commuter train at 7.58am would be restored to a six carriage service. However, it appears that further storm damage to the rolling stock has delayed the additional carriages being added to the peak-time train.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"The situation for commuters at Dalmeny is simply unacceptable. Not only is there reduced capacity on the peak-time train but passengers are now facing delays on the line and overcrowding at the platform.

"I know that the Perth-Edinburgh service is now stopping at Dalmeny at 8:03 but this, as I have pointed out to Scotrail, is of little help to those wishing to travel to the Gyle. I was told by Scotrail that my comments would be passed on to their train planners.

"I have however been advised this afternoon that 'the additional call was introduced in an endeavour to assist in what is accepted is a difficult situation... There is no scope for this service to call at South Gyle.' I was also told that the 7:58 service is now scheduled to run with six carriages from Monday.

"During my call to Scotrail today I have to say that I was shocked and disappointed by their attitude to the escalating problem. When I asked whether disruption would continue for four to six weeks as commuters have been advised via PA announcements at the station, I was simply told that updates would be available via their website. It was in a subsequent email that I was informed of the plan to run a six carriage service from Monday 23rd.

"Needless to say, I will be writing to the Managing Director again."

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, today spoke in a debate on the future of Britain's town centres and high streets. The debate focussed on the Portas review and how its findings can be implemented in each area.

Commenting after delivering his contribution to the debate Mike Crockart said:

"Today's debate was important to highlight the plight of many of our high streets and to discuss the way forward.

"The Portas review has some excellent recommendations and I hope that local authorities, planners and communities as well as those at the centre of government will take these on board and have frank discussions about the future of local high streets.

"Much was said in the debate about the negative impact of online sales. I think my view is a little different - businesses across Edinburgh West have contacted me to support my better broadband campaign. They highlight the fact that modern technology is essential for on-street as well as online sales with card transactions dependent on fast, reliable internet connections.

"In my speech I said that many people, including me, become flippant about the struggle our high streets face when it actually comes to where we shop. We don't automatically associate our business with the high street's survival - we think someone else will shop there or use the service. I said that this attitude needs to change.

"That is why I will be contacting high street businesses across the constituency to find out what help and support they need as well as campaigning for people to make the most of their local amenities."

Edinburgh West MP Mike Crockart has today welcomed John Swinney's announcement of four enterprise zones across Scotland which will focus on manufacturing, life sciences and low-carbon renewable energy sectors.

Fourteen sites have been identified within the zones which should be running from April. The areas will help to stimulate private investment, create jobs and improve the economy.
Specific incentives to be offered in each site are still to be decided but they may include reduced business rates.

Commenting on the announcement Mr Crockart said:

"Today's announcement is good news for Scotland and I am pleased to see that the Scottish Government is following the coalition's example by setting up Enterprise Zones.

"In March last year the Chancellor announced that Enterprise Zones south of the border would benefit from business discount rates worth up to 275,000 pounds as well as a radically simplified planning processes, and superfast broadband. I understand that the Scottish Government will consider similar measures and this is very welcome.

"It is of course crucial that as the details are being worked out, discussions continue with business. Enterprise Zones provide a real opportunity for key growth sectors in Scotland and with the challenging economic circumstances this is good for the economy and jobs.

"I am pleased that Edinburgh's BioQuarter is to be designated an Enterprise Zone - it's good news for Edinburgh and for Scotland's life sciences industry in general. The announcement of Leith as a low carbon and renewable area also adds additional weight to Edinburgh's case as the natural home of the Green Investment Bank."

�          GlaxoSmithKine in Irvine, Ayrshire, which will form part of the Life Sciences Enterprise Area, along with sites in Moray, Highland, Edinburgh and Midlothian.
�          Two low carbon and renewables areas are proposed in the east for the ports of Dundee and Leith, and a north area focusing on Hatson and Lyness in Orkney, Arnish in the Western Isles and Nigg and Scrabster in Highland.
�          The fourth area, for manufacturing, will take in the Creative Clyde waterfront area of Glasgow and Prestwick International Aerospace.

Last week, Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West contacted Scotrail after hearing that constituents were being left on the platform at Dalmeny station due to a lack of carriages.
The sudden surge in demand for places comes not from a growth in passenger numbers, but rather a decline in carriage space as some were damaged in last week's storms.
In a letter to Scotrail bosses Mr Crockart asked whether it would not be possible to re address the balance and shift surplus carriages from Fife bound trains to the train with highest demand at peak times. Mr Crockart was told by Scotrail that the train travelling to Fife is also a three carriage train and therefore carriage re-allocation from that train is not possible. Nevertheless, he was given assurances that additional carriages would be added to the 7.58am train this week. Following reports that this morning's train was only three carriages Mr Crockart again contacted Scotrail.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"It is really disappointing that commuters continue to face this difficulty and disruption. I have contacted Scotrail again today and have been told that since their original communication with me two more trains have been damaged by hitting trees.

"Whilst the company is working as quickly as possible to revert to the original plan of additional carriages on the 7.58 Edinburgh train, this has not yet been possible because of the latest damage to carriages.

"I understand that Scotrail has introduced an additional stop at Dalmeny - the Perth to Edinburgh service at 08.03 - to ease the problem. I have however pointed out to Scotrail that this train does not stop at the Gyle and is therefore unsuitable for many commuters.

"I will continue to ask questions of Scotrail and work to resolve this problem. As I said last week, I appreciate that the lack of adequate carriages is an ongoing issue for commuters joining peak trains at Dalmeny station. I have therefore asked for a meeting to discuss this issue further with Scotrail."

Rising fuel bills are stretching household finances and people are looking for ways to save money on their energy bills.

Help is at hand through Big Energy Week (16-21 January 2012) which is being run by Citizens Advice and has received support from Edinburgh West MP Mike Crockart.

During Big Energy Week you can get practical advice on cutting your fuel bills and help to see if you are getting all of the financial support you are entitled to.  You can pick up a leaflet with tips and advice on cutting your fuel bills at your local Citizens Advice Bureau. 

A new website www.bigenergyweek.org.uk is full of tips on how to cut your energy bills.  The website also has details of local Big Energy Week events in your area.  

Citizens Advice, Chief Executive, Gillian Guy said:

"We know hikes in prices have put extra pressure on people's budgets at a time when money is already tight. Day in day out our Bureaux helping people who can't afford their fuel bills.

"We're worried that some people are struggling unnecessarily because they're not on the best deal; live in homes that haemorrhage heat or are not getting all of the financial help available to them."

Mike Crockart added:

"Fuel bills are a big worry for many people at the moment.  I am pleased to support Big Energy Week and hope it will make a big difference to my constituents by saving them money on their bills."

Big Energy Week tips to help you save money on your bills:

� Contact your supplier to check you are you are on the best tariff and payment method for you.  Monthly direct debit is on average 100 pounds cheaper per year than paying by cash or cheque.

� Visit an accredited switching website to see if you could get your energy cheaper elsewhere. You may be able to save up to 200 pounds off your annual bill by shopping around for a different supplier, particularly if you have never changed energy firm.

� Insulate the walls and the loft of your home and you could save on average around 120 pounds per year.  All major gas and electricity suppliers are giving away free or discounted insulation to any household, not just their own customers. Ask if you're eligible so you don't miss out.  That goes for heating oil customers too.

� Check you are not missing out on any benefits or tax credits that could up your income; your local Citizens Advice Bureaux can help you with this.

� Using less energy could save you money, just by doing simple things like turning off lights and switching appliances off at the wall. Turning your thermostat down 1 degree alone could cut your heating bill by 60 pounds on average.

� If you are unable to pay your bills you should contact your energy supplier immediately as they have to help you manage your bills in a way that you can afford. 

� If you use heating oil or liquid petroleum gas to heat your home, shop around and compare prices from different oil suppliers.  You could also save money by buying in bulk with your neighbours; check if there is an oil club you can join or start one up. 

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West has welcomed the announcement by Scottish Gas and British Gas that its electricity prices are to fall by an average of 5%. The cut will come in to effect immediately. It equates to an average saving of 24 pounds per year for 5.3 million electricity customers across the UK.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"This is good news for people struggling to meet the cost of utilities. We all know only too well the pressure that electricity and gas price increases have placed on households across the UK; this announcement brings a little relief at last.

"The government is determined to do all it can to ensure cheaper, fairer and more transparent prices for people across the UK. We will keep working with industry to ensure a better deal for customers."

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West is on today's order paper for Scottish Questions. Mr Crockart intends to raise the issue of the Green Investment Bank and the benefits it could bring to Scotland.

Commenting ahead of today's business in the Chamber, Mr Crockart said:

"The Green Investment Bank would be a huge boost not only to Edinburgh but to the whole of Scotland.

"Yesterday's announcement of a deal between Scottish and Southern Energy and Scottish Equity Partners as well as Scotland's landmark agreement to develop green energy products with Masdar demonstrate the way in which the sector is moving and developing internationally.

"Today I want to highlight this internationalisation and Edinburgh's role in it. The co-location of financial and green sectors in the City means it is uniquely placed to act as a springboard for such ventures. That is why Scotland's capital should be home to the UK's Green Investment Bank.

"I have been pushing Edinburgh's case over the past year and will continue to do so until Vince Cable, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, makes his decision on the bank's location."

Mike Crockart is No.14 on todays order paper for Scottish Questions.
The text of the full questions is:

"What discussions he has had with Ministerial colleagues on the likely benefits to Scotland of the Green Investment Bank."

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West has today welcomed EDF Energy's move to cut the price of gas by 5%. The company is the only one of the major supplier to announce it will pass on falling wholesale prices to its customers in 2012.

The lower gas price announced today will come into effect on 7th February.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"This is good news for consumers who have faced with rising bills over the past years. With more than one in three households in Scotland estimated to be living in fuel poverty, this announcement is a step in the right direction to reducing that figure.

"The government is working with industry to do all it can to ensure cheaper, fairer and more transparent prices for people across the UK. I hope that other major suppliers will follow EDF's example and pass on cost-savings to customers. That is the right thing to do."

Mike Crockart, Liberal Democrat MP for Edinburgh West, has today asked the Prime Minister for his support in campaigning for the closure of Guantanamo Bay by the end of 2012.

Speaking in the Commons on the 10th anniversary of the first detainees being moved to Guantanamo Bay, Mike Crockart welcomed a report published by Amnesty International and pressed the Prime Minister, for "his commitment to do all he can to see 2012 as the year this abomination closes".

The report 'Guantanamo: A decade of damage to Human Rights' highlights the 'toxic legacy' the facility  is leaving for Human Rights and draws attention to the unlawful treatment of its detainees.

Although President Obama pledged to close the Guantanamo facility by 22 January 2010, there are still 171 men being held at the camp, one of who is a UK resident. 12 of those still held were part of the original group who moved to Guantanamo on the 11 January 2002.

Amnesty International wants an end to indefinite detention at Guantanamo, and will present a petition to Barack Obama on the 24th January, ahead of his State of the Union Address.

Mike Crockart MP, a member of the Joint Committee on Human Rights, commented:

"Today's Amnesty Report has once again highlighted the plight of those held at the Guantanamo facility. After 10 years, and broken promises on its closure, enough is enough.

"It is a despicable institution and we must do everything we can to see it closed as soon as possible. That is why I raised the issue with the Prime Minister today and I very much welcome his response."

The full text of the question and the response 

Mike Crockart (Edinburgh West) (LD): Today, unfortunately, is the 10th anniversary of the opening of Guantanamo Bay, a despicable institution that to this day still holds one UK national. Will the Prime Minister commit to do all he can to see that 2012 is the last year in which that institution operates?

The Prime Minister: My right hon. Friend the Foreign Secretary is working very hard with the United States to try to secure the issue and bring this chapter to a close. As the hon. Gentleman will know, we have also taken steps as a Government and as a country to try to achieve some closure to what happened in the past, through a settlement with the people who were in Guantanamo Bay and through setting up a proper inquiry to ensure that the British Government were not complicit in any way in the torture of people in Guantanamo Bay or elsewhere.

You may be interested to read the Amnesty International report Guantanamo: A decade of damage to Human Rights or why not sign the Amnesty International petition for the closure of Guantanamo Bay

Local MP Mike Crockart has today written to the Managing Director of Scotrail asking him to re-address the balance of carriages being used on the Edinburgh-Fife line. The call comes on the back of Mr Crockart being made aware of the problems that many of his constituents travelling from Dalmeny to Edinburgh have had in recent days.

The sudden surge in demand for places comes not from a growth in passenger numbers, but rather a decline in carriage space as some were damaged in last week's storms.

In the open letter, Mr Crockart asks the Scotrail chief whether it would not be possible to re address the balance and shift the carriages to the train with highest demand.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"I understand that storm damage on trains cannot always be avoided, but the current arrangement just seems bizarre. In one direction, a more or less empty five carriage train and in the other, a packed three carriage train with people being left on the platform!

"I have written to the Managing Director of Scotrail today asking that the situation be looked at. It seems absurd not to move any spare carriages to the train with the highest demand.

"I appreciate that the lack of adequate carriages is an ongoing issue for commuters joining peak trains at Dalmeny station. I have therefore asked for a meeting to discuss this issue further with Scotrail.

"If you experience problems with the trains at Dalmeny then I would be grateful for your views. The easiest way to contact me is via my website www.mikecrockartmp.com"

The full text of the letter is:

Mr Steve Montgomery
Managing Director
Scotrail
Atrium Court
50 Waterloo Street
Glasgow
G2 6HQ

11 January 2012

I wanted to contact you on behalf of my numerous constituents who commute from Dalmeny to Edinburgh and who are having problems with a peak-time train; the 7.58am.

I understand that following carriage damage in the storms, the 7.58am train is operating with only three carriages, the result of which is many passengers being unable to board because the train is already at capacity. Over the last three days it seems that in excess of 50 people have been left on the platform, forced to wait for the next train to Edinburgh at 8.20am.

However, I have been informed that the train travelling in the opposite direction just four minutes earlier operates with five carriages and is more or less empty. I understand completely that storm damage cannot always be avoided but would it not be possible to re-address the balance and shift the carriages to the train with highest demand?

I appreciate that boarding peak trains at Dalmeny is a long-term problem and one that is somewhat unique to that station as many commuters from Fife alight at the Gyle, but the current situation is exacerbating existing issues and is causing significant disruption to my constituents. As such, I would urge you to consider amending your operations so that the trains with most demand do run with five to six carriages rather than three.

I wonder if we could also arrange a meeting to discuss the issue of demand at Dalmeny more generally.

Yours sincerely,

Mike Crockart
Member of Parliament for Edinburgh West

Edinburgh West MP Mike Crockart today visited Edinburgh Zoo's most recent arrivals, Tian Tian and Yang Guang. Commenting after the visit to the Zoo which is in his constituency Mr Crockart said:

"I was previously able to say that I represented the most penguins of any MP. Now I'm delighted to be the only MP to have two giant pandas as constituents.

"The pair seemed to have settled in very well and I understand that they are attracting a lot of attention. Zoos continue to draw huge numbers of visitors even during the winter and Edinburgh Zoo was Scotland's second biggest tourist attraction last year with over 600,000 visitors. All of this delivers huge benefits to the regional economy."

Hugh Roberts, Chief Executive of Edinburgh Zoo, stated:

"Visitor numbers were up 200% on the same period last year.

"This is good news for the future of the Zoo. I hope that people continue to make the trip to Edinburgh to see Tian Tian and Yang Guang.

"But these are only two out of over a thousand animals we have at Edinburgh. I hope that people will be just as excited to see our pygmy hippo born on New Year's Eve as well as the many baby monkeys, zebras and penguins which have arrived in the last few months."

Mike Crockart added:

"As I pointed out in a Parliamentary debate last month, Zoos are worth 645 million pounds to the UK economy each year. They should not be looked on as leftover curios from a previous age but should be recognised as being shop windows for cutting-edge research being carried out in our universities and dynamic engines for regional growth and development. With visitor numbers on the up, this is a success story which deserves our support."

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart has today written to over 100 of the top financial service, legal, recruitment, property and support service companies in the UK to urge them to join the campaign to bring the Green Investment Bank to Edinburgh. 

The companies were all represented at the Scottish Financial Enterprise Awards held earlier this month where Mark Tennant , Chairman of SFE said:

"Increasingly Scotland is becoming a world renowned centre for alternative energy. It is critical ...that we colocate the financial engine which will drive the sector with the sector itself i.e. up here in Edinburgh.

Mr Crockart has now followed this up with a personal appeal for those companies to join the long-running campaign:

"We launched Edinburgh's bid in March this year in Westminster and so it is good that we are now in the final straight, but for the final push, we need all sectors of business in Scotland to step up and show that Edinburgh meets all the criteria recently set out by Vince Cable.

"At Xmas time, every parent is aware of just how potent 'pester-power' can be. I'm urging each of these influential companies to write to the Secretary of State, emphasising their support and highlighting their breadth and depth of relevant experience in this critically important sector.

"By doing so, perhaps we can ensure that Edinburgh gets a belated Xmas present in the New Year in the form of another financial institution to cement Edinburgh's already formidable reputation for green investment."

The deadline for submission of bids for locating the Green Investment Bank has now been set for 30th January 2012 with a decision due to be announced in February.

The full text of the letter:

I wanted to write following the Scottish Financial Enterprise Annual Dinner and Financial Services Awards earlier this month.  I thought the evening was most enjoyable and I hope that you too had a good time celebrating Scotland's excellence in the sector.

You will recall that during his speech Mark Tennant, Chairman of Scottish Financial Enterprise, gave his unequivocal backing for the Green Investment Bank to be based in Edinburgh, saying:

"Increasingly Scotland is becoming a world renowned centre for alternative energy. It is critical, not just to the success of Scotland, but the UK as a whole that we colocate the financial engine which will drive the sector with the sector itself i.e. up here in Edinburgh. We have the skills, the people and the environment to drive this critical industry forward. We need every voice we can corral into helping us ensure that the Bank is located here."

I could not agree more. I have long argued that Edinburgh is the bank's natural home and continue to make the capital's case to Ministers.

My son has been asking for a red power ranger for Xmas. He's made a good case: he also has a blue one; it's not that expensive; and it'll fit in well with his other 'Ben 10' figures. He'll probably get it too, but that's mainly because he reminds me about it every week without fail. I've been doing much the same thing in parliament, telling Vince that I'd really like a Green Investment Bank; that we'd look after it really well and that if he gave it to us it would flourish and be extremely effective. But Vince has others pestering him too and he only has one Green Investment Bank to give. So I want to urge you to join me in the campaign and to add to Edinburgh's already strong case for locating the GIB here.

It would benefit Edinburgh's case significantly if you would consider writing to the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, before 30th January 2012, emphasising your support and highlighting your relevant experience in the sector.

I am confident that the criteria set out by Vince Cable, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, for making this decision, means we can demonstrate unequivocally that Edinburgh is the best location for the Green Investment Bank. I hope that you share this confidence and are willing to add your name to the campaign.

If I can be of any assistance or if you require any further information then please do not hesitate to contact me by email at mike.crockart.mp@parliament.uk or on 0131 339 0339.
 
Full list of companies contacted:
Company
CMS Cameron McKenna
Tesco Bank
RBS
Royal London Mutual Insurance
Nucleus Financial Group Ltd
Barclaycard
State Street
SWIP
Ernst & Young
BlackRock International
Kames Capital
BNP Paribas
HSBC
Inglis Asset Management
Scottish Development International
Avaloq
School of Informatics
Ryden
DTZ
Morgan Stanley
HEROtsc
Resource Global Professional
Sykes Europe
OMC Partners
The Murray Partnership
Thames River
Barclays Corporate
DLA Piper
Henderson Loggie
HBJ Gateley Wareing
McGrigors
Matter Consulting
Martin Currie Investment Management Ltd
Morton Fraser LLP
IBM Financial Services Consulting
Citi Scotland
Barclays Wealth
University of Edinburgh
Lloyds Banking
JP Morgan
Association of British Insurers
Aberdeen Asset Management
Brewin Dolphin Securities
Standard Life
Espirito Sancto
Financial Skills Partnership
Aviva
HG Capital
Vesta Wind Systems
Six Telekurs UK Ltd
Russell Investments
Adam & Co Plc
Saffrey Champress
Abbotsford House Ltd
Miller Developments
Johnston Carmichale LLP
Springbank Consulting Ltd
TWJN Lawyers
Barnett Waddingham LLP
Valu-Trac Investment Management Ltd
Shepherd & Wedderburn
McInroy & Wood
Deloitte
BNY Mellon
Alliance Trust Asset Management
Saracen Fund Managers
CBRE
Financial Future Forum
Accenture
Maclay, Murray & Spens LLP
KPMG LLP
Dundas & Wilson CS LLP
Urbicus Ltd
National Australia Group Europe Ltd
Aegon UK Plc
SVM Asset Management Ltd
CashFac
Scottish Widows Bank
Virgin Money
Franklin Templeton
Maven Capital Partners
Personal Assets Trust
Manfield Partners
Optos
Sibcas (Holdings) Ltd
Brodies LLP
F&C Asset Management Plc
NBNK Investments Plc
Dunedin Capital Partners
Cornelian Asset Managers Ltd
PWC
Prudential
Assiso
Bravura Solutions
Natwest Trustee & Depositary Services
Baillie Gifford
Santander
FNZ
First State
AutoRek
Novo Altum
Kinetic  Partners
PRG
Airdrie Savings Bank
Navigant
Brown Brothers Harriman
Amaces Limited
IM Wealth Services
Turcan Connell
Interactive Data Corporation
Newton Investment Management
Scottish Investment Operations
Logica
Scoban Plc
Dickson Minto WS
Bright Gray
Scottish Friendly Assurance Society
Scottish Investment Trust
Artemis
Semple Fraser LLP
Oriel Asset Management
Mazars LLP
Glenalmond Group
Sumerian
Erdington Group
Cairn Energy
Speirs & Jeffrey
Wood Group

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, has today welcomed BT's announcement that more than 50,500 homes and businesses in Edinburgh are set to benefit from super-fast broadband as part of the company's biggest ever fibre announcement for Scotland.

South Queensferry is one of the 34 Scottish locations included in the latest phase of the company's 2.5 billion pound roll-out of fibre broadband. The news means around 125,000 households and businesses in and around Edinburgh will be part of the fibre network.

Commenting the Edinburgh West MP who is running a campaign to secure better broadband in the rural west of the city said:

"This is great news for residents and businesses in South Queensferry. Access to superfast broadband means that people can do much more online; whether it is watching a film, researching a homework topic, or processing card payments the opportunities afforded by today's announcement will be welcomed by families and businesspeople alike.

"However, what today's announcement does put into perspective is quite how poor broadband provision is for others in my constituency. Whilst South Queensferry will benefit, other rural communities like Kirkliston, Ratho, Ratho Station and Dalmeny are still suffering from speeds which are well below average.

"It just isn't acceptable for some to be able to download a song in around two seconds, whilst people just a few miles down the road have speeds of between only 1 and 2 Mbps which means just under 2 hours to download a Microsoft file of 585mb!

"It's vital that in this day and age people have access to reliable, quick broadband which is why I am continuing my campaign to secure better broadband for all of my constituents in the rural west."

If you've not already joined the campaign and would like to then you can join the campaign here

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, has today welcomed the announcement by the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills of the criteria which will be used to decide the location of the Green Investment Bank. The announcement comes on the back of a Parliamentary Question by Mr Crockart last week in which he pushed the Business Secretary to publish the factors to be used in the decision.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

"Today's announcement brings to an end months of speculation over what criteria will be used to decide the location of the UK's first Green Investment Bank.

"The document which sets out the criteria makes it clear that any proposed location must satisfy the basic needs of the GIB as an organisation. These are to have good national and international transport and communication links as well as appropriate available office accommodation with good energy efficiency and environmental performance ratings. I am in no doubt that Edinburgh can meet these without any difficulty whatsoever.

"Assuming the basic requirements are met, locations will then be considered against three criteria specific to meeting the particular needs of the GIB. These range from the ability to attract staff with the necessary expertise to considerations of cost effectiveness.

"Having looked at the criteria, I am sure that Edinburgh will put forward a compelling case. There is no doubt that we already have individuals with extensive expertise in the financial sector as well as world leaders in renewable technology. Edinburgh could certainly ensure that the GIB delivers its primary objective of increasing the speed and scale of commercial investment in the UK's green infrastructure.

"The bank would bring with it an initial 3 billion pounds as well as the creation of 50-70 jobs by the 2015. The benefits of the bank would be felt across Scotland and crucially would attract other investors and industry to think about Edinburgh as a base. This would further enhance Edinburgh's reputation as a global financial and technological hub.

"The Government has stated its commitment to an open and transparent decision process and this, along with clarity over GIB criteria, is most welcome. I look forward to continuing my work to make Edinburgh's case before the Secretary of State makes his final decision in February."

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West has won the Plain English Campaign's website award. Each year the Plain English campaign recognises those who use language in a clear, concise and easy to understand way - as well as those who could perhaps improve!

The accolade, presented on Plain English Day, recognises a website that has been created in a way that is clear and relevant to the audience, and achieves excellent standards of usability and accessibility.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"I am absolutely delighted to receive the Plain English Campaign's web award. For the past few months I have been working hard to develop a website which is helpful to constituents and easy for them to use. Of course, the real test of the website will be feedback from constituents!

"All too often people forget that effective communication is about getting to the point. In politics we are guilty of slipping into jargon or tip-toeing around a subject so that we say a lot whilst actually communicating nothing at all.

"But relationships depend on communication, and unclear writing creates a barrier. This is true in our personal lives, in business and in government. In government the potential for confusion and misunderstanding is enormous because the audience is so large. But we must remember that even the most complicated policies or the toughest decisions can be explained in a few straightforward words.

"That is why I am going to work with the Plain English Campaign to try to get some of the UK's big organisations and government agencies using plain language. Simplicity and clarity should not be overlooked in favour of big words and long sentences. People need to understand the decisions they are making which is why English, whether on government forms or bank statements, should be functional, not flowery.

"Please do have a look around the website and let me know what you think."

Chrissie Maher OBE and founder of Plain English Campaign added:

"Mike is a truly memorable winner of our Web Award.  To have a Member of Parliament make such a positive effort for his constituency is a constructive commitment that sets the standard for others in both Parliament and Government.  We applaud Mike's clear and plain English communications and I'm sure the people of Edinburgh West will appreciate this."

Plain English day is Friday 9th December 2011.

Mike will be tabling a Private Members Bill in the New Year. The title of the Bill will be 'A Bill calling for all public information to be provided in a clear, simple and functional way, without the use of jargon or gobbledygook'.

If you have any good examples of gobbledygook or jargon on documents or forms then please do get in touch .

You can also sign the Plain English Campaign's e-petition which calls for a UK Plain Language Act for crystal-clear communication of public information.

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart has welcomed the news that Heriot-Watt University is to be the first in Scotland to offer a full time MA in British Sign Language (BSL). The course in the minority language will become part of the University's modern language portfolio.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"This is excellent news. BSL is a minority language used by 6000 people in Scotland, but at present there are only 50 official interpreters in Scotland.

"Finland which is of a comparable size and has a similar population to Scotland has between 500 and 600 sign language interpreters; but the country still considers itself to be short of interpreters. Professor Graham Turner, chairman of Interpreting and Translation Studies has worked out that each deaf person in Scotland is entitled to just three minutes a day of interpreting support. This is simply not enough.

"The course to be offered by Heriot Watt will not only improve the numbers of interpreters in Scotland and the services available to Deaf BSL users, but it will also create opportunities for graduates. BSL interpreters are needed in many different roles, with jobs in schools, hospitals and even the UN.

"Ofcom is consulting right now about the rights of Deaf BSL users to use Video Relay Services to allow them to access goods and services in the same way that every one of us takes for granted. Increased provision of BSL interpreters will go a long way towards answering the telecoms industry's reticence to support greater access.

"We know that there is an urgent need for more BSL interpreters, and this course is a very positive step in fulfilling that demand. Yet again, Edinburgh's universities are leading the way in designing first-class courses providing real skills to address real needs."

Mike Crockart is working with the UK Government and commercial operators to try to secure better Video Relay Services. SignVideo is now available at Mr Crockart's constituency office.

Mike Crockart, this morning questioned the Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills on the criteria to be used for deciding the location of the UK's Green Investment Bank. In his reply, the Secretary of State confirmed that the criteria will be announced "in the next few days".

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"I am pleased that we now have an idea of when the Government will publish the criteria to be used for deciding the bank's location. I have been working with the Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce, Edinburgh's financial services sector and industry leaders to make a case for the capital. Clearly this is easier if you know on what basis the decision will be made.

"What is absolutely clear is that Edinburgh has a pedigree in the financial services sector. Combine this with the unrivalled engineering and renewable energy presence here in Scotland and it's clear that we have an exceptional case for the bank's headquarters to be located in the capital.

"I am confident that whatever criteria Vince Cable sets out for making the decision, we will be able to demonstrate unequivocally that Edinburgh is the natural home of the Green Investment Bank.

"I will continue to make the case for the UK's first Green Investment Bank to be located in the capital over the coming weeks."

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, today highlighted the excellent work being done by Edinburgh's Bio-Quarter.

Following a statement on life sciences in the UK made today by Andrew Lansley, Secretary of State for Health, Mr Crockart asked the Health Secretary if he agreed that the Bio-Quarter held a 'unique' position in the UK.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"The strategy announced today is dependent on the sector's ability to translate primary research into commercial outcomes.

"Edinburgh's Bio Quarter, sharing a campus as it does with the capital's state of the art Royal Infirmary, is uniquely placed to do exactly this; securing early adoption and positive commercial outcomes.

"Edinburgh is recognised as having state of the art facilities and world leading researchers. It is time that the commercial success of that innovative work is celebrated."

The full text of Mike question was:

"Mr Speaker, key to the strategy announced today is the ability to translate primary research into early adoption and commercial outcomes. Would the Secretary of State agree with me that Edinburgh's Bio Quarter is uniquely placed to do this, sharing a campus as it does, with the State of the art Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh and hopefully soon to be joined by the excellent Sick Kids Hospital in Edinburgh, giving a base for the commercialisation of the innovative work being carried out by Edinburgh's universities."

The Scottish Financial Enterprise Awards were held last night at the Edinburgh International Conference Centre in front of an audience of 700 representing all the different sectors of Scotland's Financial Services industry.

Speaking at the awards ceremony, Mark Tennant, Chairman of industry body Scottish Financial Enterprise gave his unequivocal backing for the Green Investment Bank to be based in Edinburgh:

"Increasingly Scotland is becoming a world renowned centre for alternative energy. It is critical, not just to the success of Scotland, but the UK as a whole that we colocate the financial engine which will drive the sector with the sector itself i.e. up here in Edinburgh. We have the skills, the people and the environment to drive this critical industry forward. We need every voice we can corral into helping us ensure that the Bank is located here."

Also attending the event was Mike Crockart, MP for Edinburgh West, who has led the campaign to bring the UK institution to the city.

Commenting after the event, Mr Crockart said:

"An event like this shows the strength and depth of Scotland's Financial Services sector. There are over one hundred thousand people directly employed in the industry in Scotland with more world class companies choosing to base themselves here every year. Combine this with the unrivalled engineering and renewable energy presence here and it's clear that we have an exceptional case for the bank's headquarters to be located in the capital.

"I'm confident that whatever criteria Vince Cable, Secretary of State for Business, Innovation and Skills, sets out for making this decision, we will be able to demonstrate confidently that Edinburgh is the Green Investment Bank's natural home."

There are over 650,000 unpaid carers in Scotland who provide care and support to family, friends and neighbours, providing unpaid care worth an estimated 10.3 billion pounds each year. The carers' rights campaign, run by Carers Scotland, seeks to increase the up-take of benefits and raise awareness of carers' rights and the support that they may be able to receive in order to protect their pensions. It might be the Carer's Allowance, Council Tax discount, Pension Credit or Housing Benefit that makes a difference.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"It's a real concern that carers in Edinburgh West may not be getting all the help they are entitled to. Carers fulfil a vital role in society and without them the NHS and social care system would not be able to cope. It is essential that they are given information about their rights so that they get the support they need."

Fiona Collie, Policy and Public Affairs Manager at Carers Scotland added:

"Nearly three quarters of carers are financially worse-off as a result of caring, with many falling into financial hardship and debt. Yet around 80 million pounds per year in carers' benefits go unclaimed. It is crucial that carers receive clear information on what they are entitled to, and how to claim it."

Carers can order a free booklet called Looking after someone: a guide to carers' rights and benefits from Carers Scotland by visiting www.carerscotland.org or calling the freephone hotline on 0808 808 7777. Copies are also available at Mike Crockart's constituency office at 1a Drum Brae Avenue, Edinburgh.

Mike will be holding a special advice surgery for carers in his constituency in the New Year. A time and date for the surgery will be announced before Christmas. If you are interested in attending then please contact Mike's office on 0131 339 0339.

Local MP Mike Crockart is calling on residents to get creative and put forward their ideas for the name of the new Forth crossing.

The bridge, designed to take the pressure off the current Forth Road Bridge, has so far been referred to as 'the replacement crossing' but local residents and elected representatives have called for a more suitable title for the third bridge to span the Forth.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"There is no doubt that the construction of the new crossing will cause upheaval to those who live locally and the process to date has certainly involved a lot of work and disturbance for them.

"Sadly, up until now, many local residents feel that their views and wishes have been ignored. So this is a good opportunity for people to be involved and finally have their say about their bridge.

"To see such a grand construction carrying your suggested name would be something special and that is why I am inviting Queensferry and Kirkliston residents to give their ideas. I am really looking forward to receiving them."

If you would like to put forward a suggestion, you can email Mike at mike.crockart.mp@parliament.uk or by using the get in touch page

Edinburgh West Liberal Democrat MP, Mike Crockart, has tabled an Early Day Motion highlighting the essential contribution that Scotland's oil and gas industry makes to the UK's economy and urging the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills to continue working with the sector to ensure its future growth.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

"Last week saw the launch of 'Make it in Great Britain', a campaign to raise the profile of British manufacturing.  People seem to think that Britain is no longer a nation which makes things, but this couldn't be further from the truth.

"My constituency of Edinburgh West is best known for its financial services headquarters and blue chip companies, but there is excellence in manufacturing too. 

"A couple of weeks ago, I spent a fascinating morning at the Premier Hytemp site at Newbridge in my constituency. A world-leading engineered solution provider, stockist and supplier for the Oil and Gas industry. The company has three decades of experience and a reputation as a dependable supply chain partner, selling complex alloy components through operational facilities in Edinburgh, Sheffield and Singapore.

"I am a keen advocate of green technologies and have made numerous calls for the UK's Green Investment Bank headquarters to be located in Edinburgh. But, the fact remains that oil and gas is the UK's biggest industrial investor, worth 5 to 6 billion pounds in exports, and supporting hundreds of thousands of jobs.

"The oil and gas industry indirectly supports 230 jobs in Edinburgh West through wider supply chain contracts. A further 100 jobs are sustained by economic activity induced by employees spending.

"In 2010 the oil and gas industry supported 440,000 jobs across the UK, with 45 per cent of these based in Scotland; and there is further growth on the horizon. Earlier this year an OPTIO and Engineering Construction Industry Training Board survey estimated that the rate of recruitment and training will have to double in the next five years, which could mean an additional 15,000 jobs for the UK.

"But the sector is facing a skills shortage in spite of the industry having a good track record in industry-funded and successful apprenticeship schemes. It is therefore essential that we ensure the government continues to support the industry and those supply chain companies which face challenges recruiting individuals with relevant skills."

For more information about 'Make it in Great Britain' visit the website at http://makeitingreatbritain.bis.gov.uk/

Full text of Oil and Gas motion

Edinburgh West MP Mike Crockart this month took on the hairy challenge in supporting the Movember campaign to raise awareness and funds for men's health issues worldwide.

The international charity Movember encourages men to get friends and families to sponsor them to grow moustaches each November.  The money raised by Movember in the UK funds research into the causes, prevention and treatment of prostate and testicular cancer, and the programmes of The Prostate Cancer Charity to support people affected by the disease.

Liberal Democrat MP Mike Crockart has not only grown an impressive tache this Movember, but has also put forward a motion in the House of Commons to raise awareness for the campaign, with the support of many other MPs. David Cameron today applauded the campaign during Prime Minister's Questions.

Commenting today Mr Crockart said:

"I would encourage every MP and member of the public to become involved in Movember next year. Prostate and testicular cancer affect thousands of men every year, yet many are not being screened or tested. It is crucial that we raise awareness of these terrible diseases, which is why I tabled a motion in the House of Commons and am trying my wife's patience by growing a moustache for the second year in a row.

"Men often feel very uncomfortable talking about their health to GPs and family members but this is a fantastic way of opening up the issue. If my embarrassment for the past month makes one man realise that using their GP is a manly choice, then it will have been worth it.

"This year the number of UK participant has more than doubed to 250,000, with over 13 million pounds raised already. We can and will do even better in 2012!"

� Prostate cancer alone affects up to 40,000 men a year.

� Since its creation in 2003 the Movember movement has inspired 1.1 million participants, with 112,000 people last year raising a grand total of 11.7 million pounds.

� To donate to the campaign or for further details please visit the Movember website at http://uk.movember.com/mospace/1056566/

Full text of the Movember EDM

Mike had his moustache removed live on BBC Daily Politics on 1st December. Sadly, the show is not available on iplayer.

Commenting following the Chancellor of the Exchequer's Autumn Statement, Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West said:

"There are clearly many challenges facing the UK economy now and over the coming years. The government is working hard to reduce the UK's debt and get the nation's finances back on track, but that does mean that tough decisions have to be taken.

"In spite of this, the Liberal Democrats have been quite clear that recovery will come from growing our economy. That is why we are investing so much in initiatives to help manufacturing, support small and medium sized businesses and tackle youth unemployment with a 1 billion pound youth contract. And today's Autumn Statement delivered more good news for Scotland.

"The National Loan Guarantee Scheme will help small and medium sized businesses by reducing the cost of borrowing by 1per cent. In addition, 1 billion pounds will be made available through the Business Finance Partnership, which will invest in smaller and mid sized businesses across the UK. There are 665 mid-sized businesses in Scotland which may benefit from the growth measures.

"Households across Scotland will benefit too with the decision to defer the 3.02ppl fuel duty increase that was due to take effect on 1 January 2012 to the 1 August 2012 and cancel the inflation increase that was planned for 1 August 2012; the basic state pension increase will help 1 million of our pensioners across Scotland.

"As well as benefiting from many of the UK policies announced today, the Scottish Government will receive additional CDEL funding, including Barnett consequential, totalling 433 million pounds. The Scottish Government will of course determine its own priorities in certain areas, but this significant extra funding represents a real opportunity for the SNP to support investment in housing, schools, childcare and skills.

"More locally, Edinburgh will benefit from the government's 100 million pounds to create up to ten 'super connected cities' across the UK, with 80-100 megabits per second broadband and city wide high speed mobile connectivity. This will focus on small and medium sized enterprises and strategic employment zones which will support economic growth.

"Today's Statement shows that this Government is determined to deliver permanent reductions in spending, whilst using some of the savings to fund an ambitious programme of infrastructure investment. This is critical to economic growth and the future prosperity of Scotland."

Additional investment in Scotland includes:
� 50 million pounds available to enable the replacement of the Caledonian Sleeper fleet to improve on-train facilities. This exceptional funding is subject to the Scottish Government agreeing to co-fund the replacement programme
� Ongoing network investment in wind energy programmes, electricity and gas transmission investment
� Rural Fuel Rebate Pilot scheme (announced on 25 November) with Scottish island communities in the Inner & Outer Hebrides, Northern Isles and islands in the Clyde to benefit from a 5 pence a litre fuel discount
� An additional 100 million pounds (already announced) for the Scottish Government to enable it to draw down its fossil fuel levy surplus and increase investment on renewable energy in Scotland
 

This weekend, Edinburgh West MP Mike Crockart spent some time at the Marie Curie Cancer Care shop in Corstorphine as part of Community Service Volunteers's (CSV) Make a Difference campaign.

CSV creates opportunities for people to take an active part in the life of their communities through volunteering, training and community action. Last year 165,666 people gave their time as volunteers through CSV.

Each year the campaign makes a real difference with volunteers taking part in activities from giving blood to knitting toys. This year the campaign particularly highlighted how volunteers can combat loneliness and isolation, with many of the activities following this theme. 

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

"I was pleased to give some time to join CSV's Make a Difference campaign. Marie Curie does great work helping those suffering from cancer as well as supporting their family and friends.

"The support Marie Curie received last year meant that more than 31,000 people were given the choice of where and how to spend their final days. But the charity needs to raise more than 10,000 pounds every hour of every day to carry on its hugely important work. Marie Curie shops are a vital part of the charity's fundraising and the volunteers who run them are crucial to their success.

"Although Make a Difference Day is held in October, CSV welcomes volunteers at any time. This year the campaign is focusing on combating loneliness and isolation and with winter coming, it is even more important that we have people in our communities willing to give up a few hours to help others. But it's important to remember that you don't need to join the campaign formally to take part. Checking in on a vulnerable neighbour, or making time to pop in and say hello to an elderly member of the community really can make the difference."

Mike Crockart MP, Member of Parliament for Edinburgh West is taking part in Forth One's Cash for Kids Christmas appeal.

The appeal, in association with ASDA is asking people to be 'Secret Santa' and buy an extra present to help make a real difference to a local child in Edinburgh this Christmas.
Mike's office at 1a Drumbrae Avenue is one of the local collection points where people can drop off a present for the appeal.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

"Cash for kids is an excellent appeal and I hope that people will buy an extra gift this Christmas.

"I know that times are tight for most people, but all the appeal is asking for is a small present.

"Without appeals like this, some children will wake up to no presents on Christmas morning. By simply donating a very small gift, you can change this and bring a smile to a child's face.

"The appeal is obviously about more than giving a present; it encourages people to think about those less fortunate than themselves at Christmas."

Liberal Democrat Leader and Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg has announced a 1 billion pound Youth Contract to tackle youth unemployment, which aims to ensure that all jobless young people are earning or learning again before long-term damage is done.

In Edinburgh, 2,905 18-24 year olds are currently in receipt of Jobseeker's Allowance and would stand to benefit from the Youth Contract.

Starting next April, the Youth Contract will provide at least 410,000 new work places for 18 to 24 year olds into work over the next three years. This includes 160,000 wage subsidies and 250,000 new work experience placements.

Commenting, Edinburgh West MP Mike Crockart said:

"In these difficult times Liberal Democrats are doing the right thing and making sure we help those who need it most.

"If young people are out of work, the consequences of that will be felt for decades afterwards. We need to ensure that the young people of today do not have a false start.

"The Youth Contract will help those who need it most through advice, support, training and by giving people in Edinburgh the experience necessary to be successful in the work place.

"While we're clearing up the economic mess that Labour left behind, the Coalition Government is ensuring that our children do not bear the consequences of Labour's mistakes.

"As a Liberal Democrat, I am proud that the Coalition Government is doing the right thing to prevent another lost generation."

Commenting further, Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg said:

"Youth unemployment is an economic waste and a slow-burn social disaster.

"We can't lose the skills and talent of our young people, right when we need them most. We can't afford to leave our young men and women on the scrap heap. We need the next generation to help us build a new economy.

"The aim of the Youth Contract is to get every unemployed young person working or learning again before long-term damage is done.

"This is a 1 billion pound package and what's different about it is that it gets young people into proper, lasting jobs in the private sector."

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West is supporting an international campaign to press for women's rights in Afghanistan.

Mr Crockart took part in an event in Parliament on Wednesday 23 November which saw a crossparty group of MPs and peers having their photograph taken in front of hundreds of handmade kites designed by campaigners from around the country to symbolise their support for women's rights in Afghanistan. 

The campaign, led by ActionAid UK, Amnesty International UK, CARE UK, GAPS, Womankind Worldwide and Women for Women International - has seen 18,000 campaigners petition the UK government to support Afghan women's rights, with more than 8,000 kites designed.

Campaigners are using the kite symbol because in Afghanistan women and girls make kites but are effectively prevented from actually flying them because of cultural attitudes that make it socially unacceptable. 

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"This is an important campaign which I'm very pleased to support. If the human rights of women and girls in Afghanistan are not front and centre of peace negotiations, it will be an absolute tragedy.

"I will be following up on this issue with the Foreign Secretary William Hague at the earliest opportunity."

Amnesty International UK Director Kate Allen said:

"We'd like to see all Parliamentarians supporting this campaign for women rights in Afghanistan.

"There is a clear and present danger that the rights of Afghan women and girls could be sacrificed in deals with the Taleban as the international community looks for the exit sign in Afghanistan.

"Numerous MPs have been vocal on the subject of Afghan women's rights during the past decade. Now's the time for them to stand up and be counted."

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, today met Secretary of State for Scotland Michael Moore at Dover House to make the economic case for the retention of the present army estate in Edinburgh.

In July, then Secretary of State for Defence, Dr Liam Fox, announced as part of the Strategic Defence Review that Dreghorn and Redford barracks as well as the current Divisional HQ at Craigiehall are to close. In their place, a 'super barracks' is to be built at Kirknewton.

Local MP Mike Crockart has voiced opposition to the plan since it was announced, branding the proposal 'historical vandalism'. Commenting after his meeting with Michael Moore, Mr Crockart said:

"Today I presented the Secretary of State for Scotland with a document setting out the very many concerns I have with the proposal to close Edinburgh's historic army estate in favour of a 'super barracks' at Kirknewton.

"Of particular concern to me as MP for Edinburgh West is the impact that the closure of Craigiehall will have. Today I made the case for Craigiehall to be saved and become home to the headquarters for the brigade and two battalions which will be based in Scotland. A co located headquarters in Edinburgh would bring the efficiency savings which the Government is looking for as well as high level army personnel based close to the Scottish Government and key stakeholders.

"Craigiehall supports just over 100 civilian jobs which will be lost if the MoD's plan goes ahead. I wrote to Nick Harvey, Minister of State for the Armed Forces, last week asking if there is any opportunity for individuals in these civilian roles to be redeployed. In that letter I also made the case for the base to become home to co-located HQs. Crucially, this would protect jobs and preserve the significant knowledge and experience already present at Craigiehall.

"I have now asked over 80 Parliamentary Questions to try to understand the case put forward by Dr Fox in July. But, the MoD is still unable to give me significant detail on any aspect of the proposal, including the likely capital receipts from the estate's sale.

"I cannot see that there is a case, financial or otherwise for the MoD's plan. And I am therefore calling today for the MoD to pause for thought both in the Basing Review and the process for Voluntary Early Release resulting in 103 jobs being lost at Craigiehall."

Edinburgh West MP Mike Crockart has joined students at Edinburgh University campaigning for tax justice. The call comes after ActionAid UK compiled a database providing a comprehensive overview of the use of tax havens by FTSE 100 companies.

Mr Crockart also tabled an Early Day Motion congratulating ActionAid for its work in trying to get FTSE 100 companies to act responsibly when it comes to tax in October.

Commenting the Liberal Democrat MP said:

"I have previously congratulated ActionAid on their excellent work in highlighting this problem and now I'd like to extend that to the work being done by the dedicated group of students at Edinburgh University.

"The scale of potential tax avoidance going on in the UK today, even by seemingly respectable, well-known British companies is alarming and needs to be addressed as a matter of urgency.

"Not only did tax avoidance cost the UK 5 billion pounds in 2009-2010, but it is also morally wrong for businesses to avoid paying their fair share of tax. This is money which we cannot afford to be losing in the current economic climate.

"This kind of irresponsible and greedy behaviour has a hugely detrimental impact on developing countries; the OECD asserts that these countries lose more through tax avoidance than they receive in aid. It astonishes me that anyone can try to justify this."

Mike had written to the big six energy companies asking them to end the use of cold calling which has become an increasing problem over the past few years.

Mr Crockart said:

"The decision by Scottish Power to end doorstep selling  has come soon after similar decisions taken by British Gas and Scottish & Southern Energy. I look forward to more companies taking a similar approach

"Many of my constituents  have voiced their concern at the use of cold calling. If people keep up the pressure on those companies which continue to use this old fashioned and unpopular sales technique then the practice will soon be a thing of the past.

"Anyone who is concerned about cold calling in their area should call their local Trading Standard's Office."

Mike encourages any of his constituents to contact him if they are worried by cold calling.

Mike Crockart, Liberal Democrat MP for Edinburgh West, has today condemned the actions of youths in Clermiston who attacked fire crews called to put out illegal bonfires with eggs, sticks and stones.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

"This kind of behaviour is completely unacceptable. Fire crews already put themselves in some of the most dangerous situations to protect the public; to think that they are being attacked whilst doing this is sickening.

 "As a former policeman I know firsthand that public safety is the uppermost concern of the emergency services; emergency personnel need to be able to get on with the job in hand, without having the added worry of being attacked.

"I would ask that anyone with information about those who were involved in the attacks does the right thing and informs the police."

Lothian and Borders police can be contacted on 0131 311 3131

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, has urged residents to stay safe this bonfire night. Commenting ahead of 5th November, Mr Crockart said:

"Bonfire night is great fun, but safety on 5th November must be taken seriously. If not used properly fireworks are a real danger and can cause terrible injuries.

"I trained as a pyrotechnician some years ago but I still choose to go to one of the organised displays held in the city. I hope that local residents looking to enjoy bonfire night will do the same.

"I wish everybody a very safe and enjoyable 5th November."

Edinburgh's main display will be held at Meadowbank Stadium. The fireworks start at 7:30pm, with pre-show entertainment from 6:30pm.

Hopetoun House will stage a bonfire and fireworks display, with the event also featuring fire jugglers, fire eaters, and samba drummers.

A bonfire and fireworks display will take place in front of the Pentland Community Centre in Oxgangs Brae at around 7:30pm.

Clovenstone Community Centre will hold a fireworks display from 7pm.

Mike Crockart, Liberal Democrat MP for Edinburgh West, highlighted the dangers of the SNP's independence agenda to Scotland's renewable energy sector at today's Prime Minister's questions.

Mr Crockart's question came on the back of a report published yesterday by global financial services giant Citigroup. The report concluded that 'utilities and other investors should exercise extreme caution in committing further capital to Scotland' because of the 'huge uncertainty' that any referendum process would create.

Commenting Mr Crockart said:

"Yesterday's report by Citigroup made clear that the benefits of green energy in the UK are only unlocked if Scotland�s renewable potential is combined with the large scale investment made possible by the UK.

"At the moment, renewable power in Scotland is subsidised as part of the UK wide Renewable Obligation Certificate scheme. This means that all of the UK's 27 million households and 4.5 million business customers help to fund renewable energy in Scotland.

"But if Scotland were to break away from the UK then the scheme and resulting subsidy would, most likely, be lost. Scotland�s consumer base is too small to support the annual subsidy of around 4 billion pounds alone.

"Instead of focusing on an independence agenda, Scotland, led by the SNP, needs to pull together with the rest of the UK to realise its potential as a world leader in the green energy sector.

"Now is a time of great opportunity for Scotland. With the location of the UK�s Green Investment Bank still undecided, we should be pushing our case and capitalising on our natural resources, academic and research excellence and long financial services history.

"I will continue to do this. In the meantime, the SNP really need to re-think their flagship policies � independence and a renewable renaissance simply do not fit."

Mike Crockart, MP for Edinburgh West, has congratulated the charity Deaf Action on its launch of SignVideo, an online interpreting service available throughout the UK for deaf, deafened and hard of hearing people.

Mr Crockart recently became the first elected member in the UK to make SignVideo available at his constituency office, and in an Early Day Motion he has called for other MPs to do likewise. Mr Crockart is also pushing for the Government to ensure that all public information and services are accessible to everyone suffering from hearing loss.

Mr Crockart said:

"As parliamentarians, we are here to represent all of our constituents in the political process. However, nine million people in the UK are being disenfranchised by the fact that they face great difficulties in accessing the information they need.

"All MPs should be working with Deaf Action and the Royal National Institute for Deaf People to ensure that each and every one of their constituents is able to clearly and easily understand information in their constituency offices.

"I am delighted that Deaf Action will be pioneering this new online interpreting service throughout Scotland, and to do my bit to improve information access for my constituents who suffer from hearing loss."

The full text of Early Day Motion 2306

Mike Crockart, MP for Edinburgh West, has congratulated the charity Deaf Action on its launch of SignVideo, an online interpreting service available throughout the UK for deaf, deafened and hard of hearing people.

Mr Crockart recently became the first elected member in the UK to make SignVideo available at his constituency office, and in an Early Day Motion he has called for other MPs to do likewise. Mr Crockart is also pushing for the Government to ensure that all public information and services are accessible to everyone suffering from hearing loss.

Mr Crockart said:

"As parliamentarians, we are here to represent all of our constituents in the political process. However, nine million people in the UK are being disenfranchised by the fact that they face great difficulties in accessing the information they need.

"All MPs should be working with Deaf Action and the Royal National Institute for Deaf People to ensure that each and every one of their constituents is able to clearly and easily understand information in their constituency offices.

"I am delighted that Deaf Action will be pioneering this new online interpreting service throughout Scotland, and to do my bit to improve information access for my constituents who suffer from hearing loss."

The full text of Early Day Motion 2306

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West is the first elected member in the UK to make SignVideo available at his constituency office.

The service provided through Deaf Action in collaboration with SignVideo, an award winning service developed by Significan't, a deaf-led Social Enterprise, means that Deaf BSL constituents are able to visit Mike to discuss their concerns without having to worry about a language barrier.

The latest technology means that a translator joins the meeting via a webcam and provides simultaneous translation. The online interpreting service for deaf people will provide instant access to experienced SASLI registered BSL/English interpreters using the most advanced technology in the field.

Commenting Mr Crockart said: "Throughout the UK there is a shortage of British Sign Language/English interpreters; this is a particular problem throughout Scotland with the ratio of qualified interpreters to sign language users estimated at around 1 interpreter for every 200 sign language users.

"This shortage means that interpreters are booked up in advance and many interpreters are unable to accept bookings at short notice. Commonly, sign language interpreters are booked for a minimum of two hours, even for an appointment that may only last 15 minutes. Clearly, this booking process is not very convenient for deaf users of the service.

"SignVideo will allow Deaf Action to deliver the same high quality interpreting service, for which Deaf Action's Communication Support Agency is renowned, as an online service. Deaf Action's SignVideo will provide deaf people with access to video interpreters within seconds - over the last six months the average wait for a SignVideo interpreter has been 30.6 seconds!

"This technology will revolutionise the way that I can communicate with Deaf BSL constituents. I hope other elected representatives across Scotland will think about adopting SignVideo."

Tony Nicol, a 22-year-old DJ from Corstorphine is to represent Scotland in a battle against four other UK music-mixing-smiths for the opportunity to compete for the Movida Corona world title in Madrid in November. 5 UK finalists will compete for a place in the worldwide final in the Ministry of Sound on 18th October.

Tony's local MP Mike Crockart said:

"Tony reaching the UK final is very exciting indeed and I wish him the very best of luck. It is very difficult for up-and-coming DJs to get the opportunity to break onto the worldwide music scene.

"This competition is a unique opportunity for talented new DJs to gain exposure to large audiences and Tony will get the chance to play his set to 2,000 music lovers at the UK final.

"Of course, the finalists also have the chance to fast-track their way to the grand final via 'facebook Chance'. Each entrant is allowed to notify friends and fans that they have entered the competition and the DJ with the most Facebook votes will go directly through to the grand final. So people in Edinburgh West need to get onto facebook and back Tony."

Commenting on the announcement that BAA is to sell Edinburgh Airport, local MP Mike Crockart said:

"Today's announcement has come as a surprise, but it does at least give clarity on the matter.

"Who owns the airport is of less importance than a clear commitment to Edinburgh and the wider regional economy.

"Over the last few years, Edinburgh Airport has boosted tourism and business opportunities through its policy of route development. It remains integral to the economic health of Edinburgh and Scotland.

"It will of course be an anxious time for staff at the airport and I hope that BAA protects staff in its discussions with potential buyers.

"I am meeting Jim O' Sullivan, Managing Director of Edinburgh Airport on Friday. The sale as well as winter contingency planning will be top of the agenda."

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, has criticised elements of the Government plans to 'transform' the UK's defence capabilities, citing a lack of solid evidence or statistics to back them up.

In July this year, then-Defence Minister, Liam Fox, announced sweeping changes to the basing of armed forces in Scotland as part of the Strategic Defence and Security Review. Troops will be brought back from Germany, five new multi-role brigades are being created across the UK and several army units will be relocated, with some bases being closed completely including Craigiehall in Edinburgh West.

Mr Crockart said:

"Despite frequent opportunities to explain their thinking and to justify the proposed changes, the Ministry of Defence has singularly failed to provide any sort of coherent rationale for their plans. I have asked over 80 Parliamentary Questions around this issue, and the stock response to my questions seems to be that research is ongoing, and no answer can be provided until more is known.

"For example, when asked what assessment had been made of the feasibility of expanding Glencorse Barracks in Scotland to accommodate the 600 plus additional soldiers the MOD has already announced are to be moved there, the response from the Department was that, 'Comprehensive planning work is now under way...[and] will include an assessment of the site�s personnel capacity and potential for expansion.'

"My problem with this is, if you haven't already made that assessment, how can you sensibly decide to base 600 extra soldiers there?

"I fully agree that reform of the armed forces is necessary, particularly in the current economic climate. However, I do think that the Ministry of Defence needs to be able to offer clear and balanced explanations as to why it makes either economic or strategic sense to close barracks and disrupt the lives of many hundreds of service families."

Mike Crockart, MP for Edinburgh West, is calling for direct payments to farmers in Scotland to remain part of the EU�s Central Agricultural Policy (CAP). In addition, he is supporting the call by MEP George Lyon for the funds allocated to the UK to be more fairly distributed between each country in the Union.

This week the European Commission will present its latest proposals for reform of the CAP to the European Parliament.

Mr Crockart said:

"By producing food, providing jobs, capturing carbon, enhancing biodiversity and protecting landscapes, Scottish agriculture makes a huge contribution - not simply to the economy but also to the environment and to society itself. The CAP needs to recognise the wide range of public benefits contributed by Scottish farmers.

"Direct payments are vital for our hill farmers, particularly in the current economic climate, but not only do we need to ensure that these payments are retained � they should also be set at a fair level.  

"The European Commission�s budget proposals recommend that all member states who currently receive less than 90% of the EU average direct payments should get an increased share. At present, as grants are awarded to member states (i.e. the UK as a whole), there is huge disparity across the UK, with Scotland receiving far less per hectare than either England or Northern Ireland.

"If the Commission's proposals for a fair distribution of CAP funds were used within the UK it would give Scotland a 40 per cent increase in its direct payments budget, providing a much needed additional 225 million pound a year for Scottish farmers."

Edinburgh West MP, Mike Crockart, has called on FTSE 100 companies to justify their presence in tax havens, following the compilation of a database by the anti-poverty charity, ActionAid UK, which shows that all but two of the UK's 100 largest multinationals have subsidiaries based in tax havens.

In a House of Commons Motion which has gained cross-party support, Mr Crockart also called on the Government to continue to act to tighten tax loopholes.

Commenting, Mr Crockart said:

"I would like to congratulate ActionAid on their excellent work in highlighting the worrying scale of potential tax avoidance going on in the UK today, even by seemingly respectable, well-known British companies.

"Some of the 34,216 subsidiaries found are undoubtedly in those countries for very good reasons, but there are far too many doubts and suspicions thrown up by this data. Why do Vodafone need 20 subsidiaries registered in Mauritius? What functions do HSBC's 24 subsidiaries in Bermuda perform? Why are a quarter of BT's subsidiaries based in tax havens? And even more curiously, why are over a third of Barclays 1069 subsidiaries based there too?

"Tax avoidance cost the UK 5 billion pounds in 2009-2010 alone. On top of the fact that it is simply morally wrong for anyone, including businesses, to avoid paying their fair share of tax, this is clearly money which we particularly cannot afford to be losing in the current economic climate.

"This kind of behaviour also has a hugely detrimental impact on developing countries; the OECD asserts that these countries lose more through tax avoidance than they receive in aid. How can anyone justify this?"

The full text of the Early Day Motion 2242

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West is the first elected member in the UK to make SignVideo available at his constituency office.

The service provided through Deaf Action in collaboration with SignVideo, an award winning service developed by Significan\'t, a deaf-led Social Enterprise, means that Deaf BSL constituents are able to visit Mike to discuss their concerns without having to worry about a language barrier.

The latest technology means that a translator joins the meeting via a webcam and provides simultaneous translation. The online interpreting service for deaf people will provide instant access to experienced SASLI registered BSL/English interpreters using the most advanced technology in the field.

Commenting Mr Crockart said: "Throughout the UK there is a shortage of British Sign Language/English interpreters; this is a particular problem throughout Scotland with the ratio of qualified interpreters to sign language users estimated at around 1 interpreter for every 200 sign language users.

"This shortage means that interpreters are booked up in advance and many interpreters are unable to accept bookings at short notice. Commonly, sign language interpreters are booked for a minimum of two hours, even for an appointment that may only last 15 minutes. Clearly, this booking process is not very convenient for deaf users of the service.

"SignVideo will allow Deaf Action to deliver the same high quality interpreting service, for which Deaf Action's Communication Support Agency is renowned, as an online service. Deaf Action's SignVideo will provide deaf people with access to video interpreters within seconds - over the last six months the average wait for a SignVideo interpreter has been 30.6 seconds!

"This technology will revolutionise the way that I can communicate with Deaf BSL constituents. I hope other elected representatives across Scotland will think about adopting SignVideo."

The first educational farm visit of the new school year will take place on Monday as part of Scottish Food and Drink Fortnight; an event to celebrate Scottish food and drink, and a industry worth 9 billion pounds to the Scottish economy. VION Food Group, the Royal Highland Educational Trust and Scottish Food and Drink have joined together to make the visit to Craigie's Farm in South Queensferry possible.

The visit comes after an announcement that VION Food Group is to sponsor the Royal Highland Educational Trust for three years. The sponsorship money will be used to provide educational farm visits for Scottish schoolchildren. The Royal Highland Educational Trust aims to give every child in Scotland the chance to learn about food, farming and the countryside; as well as an idea of the importance and value of rural Scotland.

Commenting ahead of the visit, local MP Mike Crockart said:

"This visit is just the beginning of the innovative work being carried out by the Royal Highland Educational Trust and its partners. Getting children to understand about food and where it comes from is important to the future of rural Scotland, but it is also vital for their health and central to fighting the obesity epidemic.

"I have visited Craigie's many times and I am sure that the children from Cargilfield School will have a very enjoyable time taking their classroom to the countryside.

"I hope that schools across Edinburgh will benefit from the Royal Highland Educational Trust's initiative over the coming months."

A survey carried out by Local Company Data has shown that the number of high-street shops lying empty in Scotland has increased. The proportion of vacant properties has risen to almost the same level as the rest of the UK.

The survey of 56 of Scotland\'s high streets shows average vacancy of just under 14 per cent, up almost 1.4 per cent from February, continuing a rising trend from mid-2010. The UK average has remained almost static with high-street vacancies of 14.3 per cent.

Edinburgh, along with Dundee, Glasgow and Perth has seen the number of empty premises rise by an average of 25 per cent since June 2010.

Commenting on the new figures, Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West said:

"These latest figures are very worrying. Scottish towns and cities are still feeling the effects of the banking crisis and economic downturn. The survey shows that our main high streets are suffering, but we must not forget smaller high streets which are valuable to local economies.

"Corstorphine, South Queensferry and Kirkliston in my constituency all have small high streets which are vital to the local economy and important for residents and tourists alike. These high streets seem busy enough at the moment but these latest figures are food for thought.

"Local authorities, businesses and retailers must work together to ensure the future of the Scotland's high streets, but we must also think of innovative ways in which we can help.

"Last month, I launched my better broadband campaign in Kirkliston and I have already had businesses for other parts of the constituency asking to join, because the slow and unreliable broadband connection has a negative impact on business.

"It is essential that we address issues like this to ensure that local businesses, which are often the life blood of our high streets, can use technology to grow and diversify enough to survive difficult economic circumstances."

Following the questioning of Transport Scotland Officials about the construction of the Forth Replacement Crossing at the Scottish Parliament's infrastructure committee, Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West said:

"The contractors are not the main issue here. The Bill was rushed through the last session of the Scottish Parliament because the SNP wanted it to go ahead no matter what. This was more about providing Alex Salmond with a legacy project than providing the best transport solutions.

"Contrary to usual practice the SNP Government signed the contract - for the biggest ever Scottish transport project - only a matter of days before an election without consulting the other major parties before it was signed.

"If the SNP government was worried about learning lessons from the trams contracts then it should have paused before signing the contract. We only have the government's word that the dispute resolution clauses are strong enough.

"The SNP has also failed to listen to the concerns of those living closest to construction, there is little chance of my constituents in South Queensferry having their complaints dealt with adequately. But the SNP is only interested in the big headlines. If this is meant to be good governance, then I'm afraid it's too little too late."

EDF Energy has today announced that it will suspend un-solicited door to door selling in residential areas. Acknowledging that the majority of customers do not want to be sold energy on their doorstep, EDF Energy will suspend cold calling whilst it carries out a sales review.

Commenting Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West said:

"Today's announcement by EDF Energy is good news for consumers. Last month, I wrote to all energy suppliers in Scotland to ask them to follow British Gas and Scottish and Southern Energy in ending cold calling; an outdated and unpopular sales technique. I am pleased that EDF Energy has listened - I hope that the review will not recommend a return to the practice.

"The announcement does affect a significant number of EDF Energy employees and I am pleased that the company will consult these individuals over the coming weeks. I hope that the staff can be re-deployed within the business.

"I will continue to call on other energy suppliers to end cold calling and join the fight against doorstep crime."

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West is set to row a one mile route in support of the WWF's Blue Mile campaign. Crockart will row the course, from Port Edgar to Hawes Pier and back, with members of the Queensferry Rowing Club in a St Ayles skiff, The Ferry Lass.

Commenting ahead of the event, Mike Crockart said:

"The WWF's Blue Mile event is encouraging thousands of people across Scotland and the rest of the UK to raise vital funds for the WWF's work in protecting our rivers and seas. You can swim, kayak, paddle, walk along a river or - like me - row. All that WWF asks is that you complete one mile on or near water, so it's a great way of getting fit too.

"The boat I'm rowing in was built in Queensferry by two local joiners/boat builders and other members of the community. Queensferry Rowing Club and Scottish Coastal Rowing worked together to get the boat for South Queensferry and it's an incredibly popular project. The club has already taken part in seven rowing regattas in its first season.

"The next step for the club is to build a second boat and the club is busy fundraising to buy the kit and materials required. Again this will be a community project involving those people interested in boat building a chance to learn some new skills. Membership is open to everyone at all levels.

"I hope that people across the constituency will support the WWF's Blue Mile as well as Queensferry Rowing Club's bid for a second skiff."

According to new Bank of Scotland research, the proportion of disposable earnings devoted to mortgage payments, a key affordability measure, has fallen significantly since 2007. Scotland is the most affordable region in the UK with mortgage payments accounting for the lowest proportion of disposable earnings in Scotland at 22%. These levels were last seen in 2003 and are down by almost half from a peak of 38% of disposable earnings in 2007.

Commenting on the figures, Mike Crockart, MP for Edinburgh West said:

"This is welcome news for families across Scotland who have had to keep pace with rising mortgage rates over the past few years. It is also encouraging for first time buyers who, in spite of lower house prices and reduced mortgage rates, are having to put down a bigger deposit.

"Although affordability has increased in all Scottish local authorities, The City of Edinburgh still remains one of Scotland's most expensive regions with mortgage payments accounting for around 29% of disposable earnings. The City urgently needs more affordable and social housing for those struggling to make ends meet.

"Of course this is only part of the picture. People in my constituency and across the UK are having to deal with increasing fuel and energy prices, as well as a rise in the cost of basic commodities. That is why I am conducting a cost of living survey in my constituency to find out what is the greatest drain on people's wallets."

Yesterday, Queensferry RNLI station received a new Atlantic 85 class lifeboat. The naming and handing over ceremony took place at Dundas Castle with HRH The Duke of Edinburgh naming the Atlantic 85 Jimmie Cairncross after a Perth jeweller who donated money for the boat.

The boat is the most powerful inshore lifeboat operated by the charity. It has a maximum speed of 35 knots, two 115 horsepower engines, a crew of four volunteers and utilises the latest equipment to ensure casualties can be located quicker than ever. It is longer than Queensferry's Atlantic 75 boat, the Donald and EthelMacrae.

Commenting on the new addition to Queensferry Lifeboat station, local MP Mike Crockart said:

"I am delighted that Queensferry Lifeboat Station is the new home to an Atlantic 85 class lifeboat thanks to the generosity of the late Mr Cairncross who was a Life Governor of the RNLI.

"Queensferry station was the busiest in Scotland in 2010 with 74 launches and the rescue of 138 people. Already this year, the Queensferry Lifeboat has launched 40 times.

"I know that the Queensferry crew, all of whom are volunteers, are thrilled to receive the Jimmie Cairncross which will help them continue their lifesaving work for years to come.

"A new station is being built for the inshore lifeboat and I hope to be able to visit the Jimmie Cairncross in Queensferry in the coming months."

BAA's figures for July have been released this morning and show that Edinburgh Airport had its best ever month in July 2011, with 16th July being its busiest day ever. The figures represent an increase of 3.3% on last year meaning that the capital's airport was only 7000 passengers short of its first million passenger month.

Commenting on the figures, Mike Crockart, MP for Edinburgh West said:

"Almost 1 million passengers passed through Edinburgh Airport in my constituency in July. This comes on the back of a fantastic start to the year for the airport with its busiest March, April and June.

"The sustained growth of Edinburgh Airport is testament to its Management Board and team of staff, all of whom work to ensure that the needs and expectations of passengers are at the heart of the airport's operation. Edinburgh Airport is often the first glimpse of Scotland that a person has and I know that the airport will continue to work to ensure that this vital first impression is a positive one.

"Earlier this year, Edinburgh Airport won the Best European Airport: 5m -10m Passengers award and today's figures again highlight the excellence of the airport and its staff.

"I met senior staff at the airport just last week and I know that they frequently question not only how the airport can improve but also what more they can do to encourage growth in the future."

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West has added his support to the 'JustPay! Campaign for Living Wages in the FTSE 100'. The JustPay! campaign is organised by FairPensions, which campaigns for responsible share-ownership by pension funds and other major investors. The campaign is working with investors to encourage Britain's biggest companies to become living wage employers.

There is a growing problem of working poverty in the UK - more than half of all children in poverty have at least one parent in work. The Living Wage encourages companies who can afford it to pay their workers a decent wage.

Commenting on the JustPay! Campaign, Mr Crockart said:

"This is a practical measure to help to tackle the growing problem of poverty in the UK and I am pleased to have supported the Early Day Motion linked to the campaign.

"I very much welcome the announcement by Standard Life that it is to become a Living Wage employer. I hope that this move encourages other FTSE 100 companies to introduce the measure. I will be writing to any FTSE 100 employers in my constituency to encourage them to adopt this wage standard."

The Edinburgh Guarantee, led by Edinburgh City Council, aims to create 50 new apprenticeships and provide training and support for a further 80 school leavers across Edinburgh. The scheme has received significant support from some of the capital's most prestigious companies like JP Morgan and The Royal Bank of Scotland. Commenting on the announcement of the scheme, Mike Crockart MP, whose constituency is home to RBS headquarters at Gogarburn said:

"This is an innovative and modern approach to addressing both the educational and training needs of Edinburgh's young people and the skills gap faced by employers.

"Integrating formal qualifications with on the job training not only provides young people with the skills they need in the modern workplace, but also allows employers to train the workforce to meet demand in specific skills areas. This is going to be crucial if Scotland is to lead the way in emerging fields like low carbon technologies, as well as maintain its position as a world renowned financial centre.

"I have written to the Council outlining my support for the scheme and I will be continuing to meet some of the major employers in Edinburgh West to discuss the project."

Mike Crockart, MP for Edinburgh West, has welcomed today's announcement by the Chancellor of the Exchequer, George Osborne, of a new Coastal Communities Fund to support the economic development of coastal communities, which includes 4 million pounds for Scotland.

The Fund will support a wide range of projects, including those that focus on charities, the environment, education and health.

It will be financed by the Government through the allocation of funding equivalent to 50 per cent of the revenues from the Crown Estate's marine activities in each country of the UK, with separate funding for England, Wales, Northern Ireland, the Highlands and Islands, and the rest of Scotland.

Mr Crockart said:

"Coastal communities, like South Queensferry in my constituency, have always been and continue to be of great importance to Scotland not just in financial terms but also culturally.

"Today two iconic bridges span the Forth at Queensferry and it is best known as a tourist hotspot but its history is steeped in its status as a fishing and trading port. The community is still very active and close knit and I welcome the support that this Fund will give to local projects in coastal areas like South Queensferry.

"The Fund to support economic development will be open from 2012 and innovative bids from charities, businesses, social enterprises and local organisations will be invited shortly. I hope that South Queensferry will be part of this exciting new opportunity."

Mike Crockart, MP for Edinburgh West, has welcomed a statement this week from junior Home Office Minister Lynne Featherstone, announcing arrangements to deliver two key commitments in the coalition agreement on the use of animals in scientific research.

A new license condition will be added to the current law, ending the testing of household products on animals, and a science-led programme will be led by the National Centre for Replacement, Refinement and Reduction of Animals in Research (NC3Rs) to work to reduce the use of animals in scientific research.

Mike said:

"Animal welfare is a matter on which I feel particularly strongly, and I am therefore delighted to welcome this significant progress.

"The UK already has some of the strongest regulation to protect animal rights, but there is always more that can, and should, be done. These steps will ensure that the UK continues to lead the way in using the developments in science and technology to reduce animal use and suffering."

Mike Crockart, MP for Edinburgh West, has today written to all Chief Constables in Scotland, asking for them to ensure that each and every missing person report filed by their Constabulary is submitted to the Missing Persons Bureau.

At present this is a legal obligation in England and Wales, but in Scotland, as a result of devolution, it is simply looked on as "best practice", meaning there is no legal obligation for police forces in Scotland to comply.

Without all information on unidentified bodies and missing persons from local police forces being shared with the Missing Persons Bureau there is a clear risk of loopholes and data gaps, leading to unnecessary further distress and uncertainty for families across the UK when they are desperate to know what has happened to their loved ones.

Mike said:

"As an ex-police officer, I recently co-chaired a UK Parliamentary inquiry into cross-matching unidentified bodies with missing person reports, in conjunction with the All-Party Group on Runaway and Missing Children and Adults.

"Clearly this relies on two sets of data being held by the Missing Persons Bureau; both the missing person reports and information about unidentified bodies, on a country-wide basis.

"At present if an unidentified body is discovered in Edinburgh, there is no guarantee that the Missing Persons Bureau will be made aware of the fact and if that person was filed as missing in Kent, for example, the two cases may never be connected.

"The Missing Persons Bureau does a vital job, but in order for it to be able to do this job effectively, we need fully joined-up and coordinated sharing of information from the whole of the UK."

Mike Crockart MP for Edinburgh West today visited the Drumbrae Library Hub in his constituency. The new Drumbrae Library and Community Hub is due to open in early 2012 and will offer a range of services for local residents and Council teams.

The new facility is the first project to be developed as part of the hub South East Scotland programme. Over the next ten years the programme will deliver projects worth around 300 million pounds in Edinburgh, Lothian and Borders.

The Drumbrae Hub will be home to a library, community safety and housing teams as well as a safer neighbourhood police team. There will also be a day centre for older people and an adult learning facility; community information; ICT access points; careers and learning guidance; as well as space for locally elected representatives to hold their advice surgeries and community groups to meet. Information on health and parenting support will also be available at the Hub.

Commenting after the visit local MP Mike Crockart said:

"This is an exciting initiative being delivered by the Lib Dem led Council. The library has long been demanded by local residents and the Hub is a state of the art, purpose built facility at the heart of the local community. It will be a one stop shop for people to access the services and support they need.

"Co-located services will give far greater connection between residents and those services that are most important to them. I look forward to hosting my surgery there for the first time early next year."