My contributions in Parliament

Food Insecurity

Food insecurity is rising, with many struggling to access affordable, healthy options. As a councillor, I championed the Food Justice campaign and helped establish the West Lothian Food Network, which now supports vulnerable communities. Health inequalities are worsening, with obesity, diabetes, and tooth decay disproportionately affecting deprived areas. Junk food dominates low-income neighbourhoods, while access to fresh food remains limited. The Government’s new advertising restrictions and sugar levy changes are steps forward, but more must be done to improve food accessibility. We must prioritise tackling food poverty to build a healthier, more equitable future for all.

January 20th 2025

January 17th 2025

New Homes Solar Panels

Tech companies in my constituency, such as Calnex, export globally, including to the US and South-East Asia. During his visit to South-East Asia in November, what representations did the Secretary of State make to promote Brand Scotland, particularly in the tech sector? Furthermore, will he join me in visiting Calnex to learn more about its vital work in supporting digital infrastructure and strengthening Scotland’s role in global technology markets?

Inclusive PPE

In March last year, Members highlighted the urgent need for improved personal protective equipment (PPE) for women, an issue amplified during the pandemic. During a recent visit to Arco Professional Safety Services—which has a safety training centre in my constituency—I learned that they are now trialling women’s sizes as standard. This is a crucial step towards inclusivity and workplace safety. Will the Leader of the House allocate Government time to debate legislating for the mandatory provision of women-specific and inclusive PPE, ensuring that all workers have properly fitting, effective protective equipment?

January 16th 2025

January 17th 2025

New Homes Solar Panels

There is often a perceived tension between protecting the natural environment and advancing renewable energy, but the two must go hand in hand. As a former councillor, I know how crucial it is that community voices are heard in these discussions. Nothing frustrates local communities more than being excluded from decisions that directly impact them and their surroundings. Does my hon. Friend agree that meaningful community engagement is essential to ensuring a fair and sustainable transition to renewable energy, fostering both environmental protection and local support for these vital developments?

Endometriosis: Women in the Workplace

I thank my hon. Friend for securing this vital debate. With an average diagnosis time of over eight years, endometriosis sufferers need greater workplace support. Does she agree that employers must adopt more flexible policies, such as the Endo-Friendly Employers Scheme, to better support women with this condition? Will she also join me in thanking campaigners like Endo Warriors West Lothian for their tireless work in raising awareness and advocating for those affected? Their efforts are crucial in ensuring better understanding, improved policies, and a more supportive approach for those living with endometriosis.

January 9th 2025

January 16th 2025

St Michael's

St Michael’s Church in Linlithgow, founded in 1424, remains a significant centre of worship within the newly formed Linlithgow and Avon Valley Parish. As a Category A listed site, it has greatly benefited from the Listed Places of Worship Grant Scheme. Given its importance in preserving Scotland’s religious and architectural heritage, can my hon. Friend confirm what engagement the commissioners have had with church representatives in Scotland regarding the scheme’s effectiveness and continued support for listed places of worship? Ensuring the scheme remains accessible is vital to maintaining these historic sites for future generations.

Bo'ness Railway

The Museum of Scottish Railways in my constituency, based at the Bo’ness and Kinneil Railway and operated by the Scottish Railway Preservation Society, is Scotland’s largest railway museum. Welcoming over 60,000 visitors annually, it plays a vital role in preserving railway heritage and is central to the 200 Years of Modern Railways celebrations. Heritage railways contribute significantly to tourism, education, and local economies. Will the Leader of the House grant time for a debate on how we can better support and celebrate heritage railways, ensuring their continued contribution to our history and communities?

January 9th 2025

January 15th 2025

PMQ

Dental deserts are leaving many communities without access to routine check-ups and treatment. In my constituency, a dedicated space for a dental practice has remained empty in the Blackburn Partnership Centre since 2018, as NHS Lothian has been unable to secure a provider. This is a growing issue across the UK, impacting oral health and widening health inequalities. What steps will the Prime Minister take to work with devolved governments to improve access to NHS dental care, ensuring that people can receive the treatment they need in their local communities?

Scotland's Transport

Scotland’s transport links must be improved, particularly in growing areas like Winchburgh, where residents still lack a long-promised train station. Despite timetable adjustments allowing for a stop, no station exists, forcing long bus journeys or increased car use. Meanwhile, ScotRail’s proposed cuts to ticket office hours, including in Linlithgow, raise safety and accessibility concerns, particularly for women and disabled passengers. With rail fares rising and bus services cut by 44% since 2007, the Scottish Government’s lack of strategic planning is failing communities. We must learn from successful models, like Manchester’s Bee Network, to create an accessible, joined-up transport system.

January 8th 2025

January 9th 2025

Impact of violence on women and girls

Conflict magnifies the inequalities that women and girls face, exposing them to violence, displacement, and a lack of essential healthcare. From Ukraine to Gaza, Myanmar to Afghanistan, the suffering is immense—yet women remain excluded from decision-making and peacebuilding. The UK must act, ensuring humanitarian funding reaches women’s rights organisations and embedding gender analysis in all aid efforts. Evidence shows that when women are involved in peace processes, outcomes are more durable and equitable. We must use our influence to uphold international law, condemn abuses, and champion the rights of women and girls worldwide, ensuring our time in Parliament truly counts.

Gaza

With medics in Gaza working in unbearable conditions, witnessing unimaginable horrors, and lacking even the most basic supplies to treat civilian casualties, urgent action is needed. Does my hon. Friend agree that establishing safe and secure routes for medical aid must be an immediate priority, ensuring that lifesaving assistance reaches those in desperate need without further delay?

December 16th 2024

January 6th 2025

Linlithgow Women

What steps is the Minister taking to ensure that the historic contributions of women in wartime are properly recognised? In particular, I highlight the vital role of those who worked in munitions factories, such as the Linlithgow Munitionettes, whose efforts were crucial to the war effort. Will the Government take action to honour their legacy and ensure their contributions are remembered for future generations?

Bangladesh

Some of my constituents from the growing Indian community in Winchburgh are deeply concerned about reports of horrific violence against Hindus in Bangladesh. Does the Minister agree that violence against Hindus or any religious minority is completely unacceptable? Furthermore, what reassurance can she provide to my constituents that the UK Government are actively supporting efforts to protect freedom of religion and belief, ensuring that all communities are safe from persecution?

December 2nd 2024

December 3rd 2024

Pimping petition

On the ninth day of the UN’s 16 Days of Activism Against Gender-Based Violence, I present a petition on behalf of UK residents calling for action against commercial sexual exploitation. The demand from a minority of men who pay for sex fuels the brutal sex trafficking trade, facilitated by unchecked pimping websites. The petition urges the Government to outlaw these websites, criminalise paying for sex, and provide support—not sanctions—to victims of exploitation. Will the Government take decisive action to protect vulnerable individuals and end the impunity of those profiting from sexual exploitation?

Gaza

I commend Dr Mamode and his colleagues for their bravery and compassion in supporting those in desperate conditions. Their dedication, highlighted in last week’s International Development Committee testimony, has shed light on the dire lack of medical basics in Gaza. Treating children and adults without essentials like anaesthetics or sanitising swabs is horrifying and cannot continue. Does my hon. Friend agree that urgent action is needed to establish safe routes for medical supplies? Furthermore, does she agree that long-term physical and mental health support must be prioritised to aid recovery and ensure a sustainable future for those affected?

November 19th 2024

November 21st 2024

Banking Hubs

Last week, Bathgate lost its Royal Bank of Scotland branch, leaving just one bank, Bank of Scotland, which is set to close next June—along with its Linlithgow branch. Communities across the UK are seeing their high streets stripped of essential banking services, impacting residents and local businesses. Will the Leader of the House make a statement on what steps are being taken to ensure that communities are not left behind and that access to banking services remains available for those who rely on them?

Budget

This Budget breaks the mould—delivered by Britain’s first female Chancellor, it prioritises investment in industry and public services after years of Tory mismanagement. With a focus on economic growth, it raises wages, injects £22.6 billion into the NHS to cut waiting times, and boosts education funding. However, Scotland must see its fair share. The Scottish Government must ensure funding reaches frontline services, including support for schools like St Kentigern’s Academy in Blackburn, which has received no financial aid for its £35 million rebuild. This Labour Government is rebuilding Britain—fixing the foundations and delivering for working people.

Jan 20th 2025

October 29th 2025

Food banks

Food bank reliance is a national scandal, yet 14 years of austerity have driven soaring food insecurity. In Bathgate and Linlithgow, demand has risen by 77% in five years, leaving children hungry, vulnerable, and stressed. I thank local food banks for their vital support, but eliminating food poverty requires political will. The Labour Government has already raised wages and is introducing free breakfast clubs, but more must be done. The Scottish Government must allocate the £41 million from the Household Support Fund and expand free school meals. All governments must work together to ensure dignity and an end to hunger.

Our creative industry

The new industrial strategy highlights creative industries as key to UK growth. My constituency plays a vital role in this sector, hosting major film and TV productions such as Outlander and the Lockerbie film, as well as the Pyramids studios. With the screen industry becoming an increasingly important economic driver locally, investment is crucial to sustaining and expanding its impact.

October 30th 2024

October 31st 2024

Tackling Food Insecurity and Health Inequalities: My Call to Action

During Restart a Heart Day, we highlighted the importance of lifesaving skills. That same week, five boys from my constituency—including two from Blackburn United Community Sports Club—acted swiftly in an emergency, placing someone in the recovery position, calling an ambulance, and retrieving a defibrillator. Their quick thinking undoubtedly made a difference.

Black History Month - Celebrating West Lothian

I celebrate Black History Month by honouring past and present changemakers. Peter McLagan, Scotland’s first black MP, represented Linlithgowshire nearly 160 years ago, advocating for women’s rights. His legacy, though complex, reminds us to learn from history to challenge today’s injustices. Today, black history is still being made in my constituency. Eunice Simpson, founder of the West Lothian African Women’s Network, empowers black women through culture and business. Recently appointed West Lothian’s first black Deputy Lieutenant, she exemplifies resilience and leadership. We must continue breaking barriers, ensuring equality, and making history that shapes a fairer, more inclusive future.

October 24th 2024

October 29th 2024

Living standards

Under the last Conservative Government, food bank use soared to record levels, surpassing even the pandemic. In Bathgate and Linlithgow, food parcel distribution has risen by 77% in five years, with 27% of children living in poverty after housing costs in 2022-23. This is a national disgrace. Urgent action is needed to tackle the root causes of poverty—low pay, high living costs, and inadequate support.

Employment Rights Bill

A long-overdue uplift in employment rights is essential. Too many hard-working people struggle to make ends meet, cutting essentials, working extra hours, and even selling belongings just to stay afloat. In 2022, the Low Pay Commission found that 20% of minimum wage workers were underpaid. The Fair Work Agency will ensure dignity in work and fair pay. Labour has already mandated that the minimum wage must reflect the cost of living, boosting pay for over 100,000 Scots. This Bill will end unfair work practices, secure proper wages, and drive economic growth—delivering a fairer, stronger future for workers across the UK.

October 21st 2024

October 24th 2024

Retail Crime

Retailers across the country are increasingly concerned about rising retail crime and antisocial behaviour. After meeting business owners in Bathgate, I highlighted the Protection of Workers (Retail and Age-restricted Goods and Services) (Scotland) Act 2021, introduced following a long Co-operative movement campaign. Shop workers deserve protection, yet in England and Wales, assaulting them is not a specific offence. I asked the Leader of the House to confirm when we can expect a Bill to address this, ensuring retail workers across the UK receive the legal protections they need and deserve?

Scotland's Economy

From manufacturing to hospitality and film production, businesses in my constituency drive Scotland’s economy. Yet, underfunding from the Scottish Government is stalling growth. Cuts to public transport and delays to projects like Winchburgh’s train station hinder sustainable travel and development. Severe council budget cuts—affecting both Labour and SNP-led councils—are damaging vital services. Urgent action is needed to close these funding gaps and ensure our communities and businesses can thrive.

October 15th 2024

October 15th 2024

Renewable Energy Projects: Community Benefits

For over a decade, failed energy policies and rising bills have hurt communities while reliance on imports has weakened energy security. Labour is changing that with GB Energy—publicly owned and investing in clean, community-owned power. The Local Power Plan, shaped by years of Co-operative Party campaigning, will create local jobs, lower costs, and give people greater control over their energy.

Delivering for Bathgate and Linlithgow

Honoured to represent our constituency and grateful to Martyn Day for his service. My journey in politics began in West Lothian, tackling food insecurity and inequality. I will fight for investment in infrastructure, local services, and fair pay while protecting our industrial heritage and driving green growth. Restoring public trust starts with collaboration and ensuring every voice is heard in Parliament.

July 26th 2024

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