Latest News –  Martin Whitfield MSP

Pubs across South Scotland are involved in supporting and encouraging all kinds of activities in their local communities, whether it's by hosting events, sponsorship or organising their own teams. These pubs that do great work at uniting local communities have the chance to be honoured by PubAid’s Community Pub Hero Awards (supported by Matthew Clark) in association with the All-Party Parliamentary Beer Group. These annual awards are now open with nominations closing on Friday 19th January. Pubs or pub goers can nominate pubs along with a reason why they deserve to win in one of the five categories. Martin Whitfield [...]

While for most of us the festive period is a chance to have a proper break and spend some special time with our loved ones, many people will continue to do their jobs over the holiday. This includes NHS, police and other emergency services and public service workers, as well as many other staff across all sectors of society who are delivering essential services. I want to say thank you to all these workers who help keep the rest of us safe and well during the holidays and throughout the year. This is also a time to express our gratitude [...]

Martin Whitfield MSP has joined parliamentary colleagues in backing the vital work of the Coalfields Regeneration Trust (CRT) in former coalfield communities across Scotland. The show of support followed a members' debate led by Labour colleague Alex Rowley MSP to acknowledge and support the Trust's work. The debate also gave MSPs a chance to oppose Scottish government proposals to cut CRT’s funding, which it has described as “a devastating blow to communities”, and end the charity’s ability to disburse funds to local groups. Mr Whitfield spoke in the parliamentary debate to highlight the Trust's important work in some of the [...]

Campaigning charity Dogs Trust is sharing its advice for dog owners on how to safely guide their pets through the festive period this Christmas. The charity has tips on making your holiday gatherings dog-friendly, keeping dogs safe around potentially toxic festive food and advice on protecting them in the cold winter weather. Martin Whitfield MSP said:  "This time of year means the sounds and smells of the many gatherings and celebrations can be a sensory overload to your dog. There is also the possibility of extreme weather conditions to contend with which can be difficult for dogs and dog owners. [...]

Martin Whitfield MSP has joined colleagues in welcoming the official opening of East Linton's new rail station, which returns train services to the village for the first time in 59 years. The official opening took place today with local residents, including children from East Linton primary school, campaigners and guests coming together to see the first service arrive in the village. Martin Whitfield MSP said:  “Today’s opening has been a long time coming and I’m really pleased that the station is finally complete and operational. "It is a significant investment in local transport infrastructure and all those who have been [...]

Commenting on passage of the United Nations Convention on the Rights of the Child (Incorporation) (Scotland) Bill (Reconsideration) Martin Whitfield MSP said: "This vote is a significant step forward in enshrining children's rights in Scots law, but it shameful that it has been held back by years of constitutional bickering. “While celebrating this landmark moment, we still need assurances that children's rights will be swiftly integrated throughout Scotland's legal system without further delay. “The Scottish Government must provide a transparent and detailed timeline for legislative review of the bill and a firm commitment to continue to funding of the UNCRC Implementation [...]