Contents

Published: Wednesday 6 September 2023

Early Day Motions tabled on Tuesday 5 September 2023

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

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

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

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

New EDMs

1569South Lancaster Churches Together 25th anniversary

Tabled: 5/09/23 Signatories: 1

Cat Smith

That this House notes that on Sunday 17 September at St Bernadette's Catholic Church, South Lancaster, Churches Together will celebrate its 25th anniversary with songs of praise; and congratulates all the churches that have come together over the past 25 years in the spirit of ecumenicalism and community spirit to serve and pray for the communities across South Lancaster and beyond.

1570150th Anniversary of St Augustine’s Episcopal Church, Dumbarton

Tabled: 5/09/23 Signatories: 1

Martin Docherty-Hughes

That this House notes that St Augustine’s Episcopal Church in Dumbarton recently held anniversary celebration events to mark 150 years of serving the people of Dumbarton and surrounding areas with their ecumenical needs and working with the local community; understands that as well as providing a place of worship for the local community, it also has a community hall which local numerous groups use to tackle social issues that are found at the heart of town ministry, particularly poverty and recovery from addiction; further notes that in addition to these local groups the Church is the base for the local food bank, Food for Thought, which provides emergency food aid five days a week to those struggling to provide for their families; and believes that the Church has played an invaluable role in the development of the town and the local community and wishes it well for the next 150 years.

1571World Suicide Prevention Day 2023

Tabled: 5/09/23 Signatories: 1

Jim Shannon

That this House marks World Suicide Prevention Day 2023, held on 10 September; highlights this year's aim to focus attention on the issue, reduce stigma and raise awareness among organizations, governments and the public, giving a singular message that suicides are preventable; notes the theme for World Suicide Prevention Day 2021-2023 is creating hope through action and that whilst there has been a reduction in the number of people committing suicide over the last 10 years, the numbers are still worryingly high; further highlights how this day offers an opportunity to remind people that it's good to talk and that recovery is always possible; thanks organisations such as the International Association for Suicide Prevention and the World Health Organisation for the key roles they play in promoting the importance of suicide prevention; and encourages those with suicidal thoughts to always speak to someone and know the necessary support is there to help people overcome difficult times.

1572InGAME research and development hub

Tabled: 5/09/23 Signatories: 1

Chris Law

That this House acknowledges the publication of a new report highlighting the transformative role played by the InGAME (Innovation for Games and Media Enterprise) research and development centre in Dundee; notes that InGAME, established in 2018 by Abertay University in collaboration with academic and industry partners, has emerged as a pioneering hub of innovative research and support services for games companies, facilitating creative experimentation, developing scale-up capacity and fostering diversification and growth throughout the Dundee games cluster and beyond; welcomes the findings of the BiGGAR Economics report which shows that companies collaborating with InGAME are projected to generate an estimated £84.7 million gross value added (GVA) for the UK economy over the next 10 years, with £55.3 million GVA and 115 jobs expected to be generated within the Tay Cities Region alone; further notes that the impact analysis reveals that for every £1 of UK public funding invested in InGAME, the project is anticipated to generate an impressive £15.90 GVA for the UK economy, while successfully stimulating £2.08 of research and development investment from industry partners; notes that to date more than 177 research projects have been funded through InGAME’s innovation voucher scheme and more than 2,200 games industry professionals and researchers have been up-skilled through training and engagement activities; and recognises that InGAME’s success was instrumental in Abertay University securing preferred bidder status to host one of four new UK virtual production labs which are funded through UKRI’s Convergent Screen Technologies and performance in Realtime (CoSTAR) programme.

1573Battlefield Rest and The Food Awards Scotland

Tabled: 5/09/23 Signatories: 1

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

That this House congratulates the Battlefield Rest for winning the Best Italian Establishment award and the Restaurant of the Year in Glasgow award at The Food Awards Scotland; recognises the value of the Battlefield Rest as a social hub for people across Glasgow and as a vital part of the local economy; and wishes the Battlefield Rest every continued success.

1574Attacks on Jacqueline McKenzie

Tabled: 5/09/23 Signatories: 1

Bell Ribeiro-Addy

That this House stands in solidarity with Jacqueline McKenzie, a partner and head of immigration and asylum law at Leigh Day law firm, who has faced unprecedented attacks from the Home Office and the Conservative Campaign Headquarters; believes that these attacks have the direct aim to undermine Jacqueline McKenzie’s professional reputation but have also jeopardised her safety and put her at direct risk of harm; is concerned that these attempts to undermine the work of Jacqueline McKenzie, and other independent lawyers, represents an erosion of values in public discourse, which now permit elected government officials to not only endorse, but also propagate threats against individuals, and in particular those who work aims to defend the rule of law; further believes these attacks are part of an attempt to divert public attention away from the Government’s flawed immigration policies; and calls on Government ministers, departments and Party officials to cease these attacks and act in a manner that is befitting to their role in public office.

1575Pulmonary fibrosis awareness month

Tabled: 5/09/23 Signatories: 2

Mohammad Yasin

Valerie Vaz

That this House marks Pulmonary Fibrosis Awareness Month which takes place in September; acknowledges the importance of raising awareness of pulmonary fibrosis, a debilitating and often life-threatening lung condition affecting 70,000 people across the United Kingdom; regrets that 1% of all deaths are due to pulmonary fibrosis; recognises the work of Action for Pulmonary Fibrosis, healthcare professionals, and researchers in raising awareness of the reality of living with pulmonary fibrosis; reaffirms the need for fast and accurate diagnosis, as well as access to treatments and pulmonary rehabilitation; understands the need for improved funding for research and support services; and calls on the Government to support initiatives that raise awareness of pulmonary fibrosis, encourage early diagnosis, and promote research into the disease.

1576Freddie Mercury's 77th birthday

Tabled: 5/09/23 Signatories: 1

Seema Malhotra

That this House extends its best wishes to the family of Freddie Mercury, who grew up in Feltham alongside Brian May, on what would have been Freddie’s 77th birthday; recognises the enormous contribution of Freddie Mercury and Queen to music and culture and the love for Freddie, which is still felt around the world; thanks Emi, Rico and Japanese fans for their donation of a Sakura tree in recognition of Freddie’s love of Japanese culture and of cherry trees; and congratulates Angela Parton and volunteers from the Friends of Feltham Green on their organising of an event in Freddie’s honour and the unveiling of the Sakura tree by Freddie’s sister Kashmira and the Mayor of Hounslow Cllr Afzal Kiani, which will be planted in the Freddie Mercury Memorial Gardens and be an inspiration in tribute to Freddie for generations to come.

Added Names

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

152840th anniversary of Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 6

Patrick Grady

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Allan Dorans

Chris Stephens

That this House congratulates Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau on reaching its 40th anniversary; recognises the exceptional work and dedication of staff, volunteers and trustees in providing the communities of North Glasgow with free and confidential advice on a wide range of issues from benefits and debt to housing and energy; notes that it now supports in excess of 6,000 local people annually; further notes that it is based within the heart of Maryhill and operates in an area with high levels of multiple deprivation and that the service is a lifeline to many local residents; understands that during the last 40 years Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau has provided advice on over 500,000 issues and secured more than £70 million for local people in the form of financial gains; acknowledges that Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau also offers a well-established tribunal service which assists clients with hearings on benefit claims, and an EU Settlement Project to help EU citizens with their immigration status; appreciates that Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau's service is delivered in large part by volunteers who come from diverse backgrounds and reflect the communities that they serve; and extends gratitude and best wishes for a successful future to Glasgow North West Citizens Advice Bureau.

1529Exchange Communications work on Battersea Power Station

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 6

Amy Callaghan

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Allan Dorans

Chris Stephens

That this House congratulates East Dunbartonshire-based firm Exchange Communications on their work in achieving Battersea Power Station’s connectivity; recognises that thanks to their brilliant work, Battersea is now one of the most well-connected neighbourhoods in Europe; commends the firm on their role in helping Battersea Power Station fulfil the goal of becoming one of London’s leading Landmarks; and notes that the firm’s work on this project provides a fantastic example of the talent and ambition in East Dunbartonshire and the huge achievements that can come from this.

1530Emma Dean, Dance World Cup

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 7

Kirsten Oswald

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates Emma Dean, the ten-year-old dancer from East Renfrewshire, on her stunning success at the Dance World Cup in Portugal; notes the competition is the world’s largest all-genre dance competition with some 7,500 dancers competing from across the world; highlights Emma’s terrific achievements at the competition, winning gold for tap, silver for acro, and placing sixth for jazz dance; appreciates that Emma’s success in Portugal adds to an already impressive record of wins as Emma is currently the Scottish juvenile ballet, modern, and acro dance champion following the Scottish Championships in April 2023; understands Emma attends Dancebase Academy and Performing Arts in the Vale of Leven; commends the work of Lindsey Donald, the principal teacher and founder of Dancebase, in helping Emma to prepare for the competition; further notes that Emma underwent an intense training schedule in preparation for the competition, training five to six times per week; and wishes Emma all the best for future competitions.

153170th anniversary of the Korean War armistice

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 8

Patricia Gibson

Jim Shannon

Jonathan Edwards

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

That this House commemorates the 70th anniversary of the armistice that concluded the Korean War; notes that the conflict was fought from 25 June 1950 to 27 July 1953; understands that, following North Korea’s invasion of South Korea, over 80,000 British troops mobilised under the United Nations banner, alongside troops from the United States and 20 other allied countries, in support of South Korea; recognises that 1,109 British service personnel were killed, 236 of them Scots, with thousands more wounded, captured or missing, contributing to the estimated three million service personnel and civilians killed, with, it understands, the Korean peninsula devastated and divided; acknowledges that the Korean War is often called the Forgotten War, as its memory is often overshadowed by the Second World War and the Vietnam War; is aware that no formal peace treaty was ever signed, contributing to what is considered to be a continued uneasy coexistence between the Republic of Korea in the South and the Democratic People's Republic of Korea in the North, and remembers all who fought in the war, the sacrifices that they made, and those who sadly lost their lives or were maimed in body or mind.

1532State pension payments for women

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 9

Patricia Gibson

Jim Shannon

Jonathan Edwards

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Douglas Chapman

That this House notes with great concern that thousands of parents, mostly mothers, who took time out of work to care of their children have been underpaid their state pension as a result of maladministration by the Department for Work and Pensions which was first identified in July 2022; acknowledges that this error relates to those who claimed home responsibilities protection which was introduced in 1978 to protect state pensions of parents or carers before the introduction of national insurance credits in 2010; is concerned that this error is believed to be the second largest source of state pension errors after the underpayments scandal that has affected around 237,000 people, overwhelmingly women, who reached state pension age before April 2016; understands that this error arose because periods of home responsibilities protection were not recorded accurately resulting in those affected having fewer national insurance contributions credited to them and that those people have received a lower state pension as a result; is disappointed to learn that the DWP annual report and accounts 2022 to 2023 has warned that it could take until late 2024 before all those affected have this error corrected; and urges the UK Government to launch a public awareness campaign to ensure that all those potentially affected are alerted about how they can check their national insurance record and claim any missing home responsibilities protection credits so that they can claim the correct level of their rightful state pension as soon as possible.

1533Ben Sandilands, 2023 World Para Athletics Championships gold medal winner

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 3

Neale Hanvey

Jim Shannon

Chris Stephens

That this House extends its warm congratulations to 19 year old Kirkcaldy-born laddie Ben Sandilands on his T20 1500 gold medal victory at the 2023 World Para Athletics Championships in Paris; commends him for his athletic skill and ability as a world class competitor, and for his determination in producing a late run in the final 250m moving up from fifth place to win with a new championship record of three minutes and 42.52 seconds; further congratulates Ben on setting a European record in March 2023 while representing Great Britain and Northern Ireland at the Para-Athletics Grand Prix in Dubai; and also commends team coach Steve Doig, and team mates Steven Bryce and Owen Miller, for their collective encouragement to achieve consistently excellent results.

1534Street Soccer Nations Cup 2023 tournament in Largs

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 7

Patricia Gibson

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Douglas Chapman

Allan Dorans

That this House celebrates the Street Soccer Nations Cup tournament, which is being held in Largs in August 2023; understands that women-only teams from Scotland, England, Wales, Northern Ireland, Republic of Ireland and Sweden will compete at Largs Thistle’s Barrfield Stadium and that players will stay at sportscotland’s Inverclyde facility; understands that Street Football projects are active across the globe, offering life-changing experiences for players who are experiencing social isolation; believes that the tournament will bring together players to build their self-belief and showcase the importance of inclusivity in football; and wishes the players the best of luck for the tournament, with Scotland winning the competition.

1535EU nature restoration law

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 6

Patricia Gibson

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Allan Dorans

Chris Stephens

That this House supports the European Parliament’s recent vote to support a nature restoration law, to place recovery measures on 20% of the EU's land and sea areas by 2030, rising to cover all ecosystems in need of restoration by 2050; is aware that a 2019 global study, carried out by the Intergovernmental Science-Policy Platform for Biodiversity and Ecosystem Services, found 75% of the world’s land surface and 66% of seas have been significantly altered by humans, while more than 85% of wetland areas have been lost; recognises that the EU’s binding targets to restore degraded ecosystems are aimed at reversing what it sees as this worrying trend; is aware that, in the run-up to the vote, an open letter signed by over 6,000 scientists highlighted studies showing that restoring nature would improve food security, help fisheries, create jobs and save money, while opponents of the law not only lack scientific evidence, but even contradict it; notes with concern that the State of Nature Scotland Report 2019 concluded that, in Scotland, 49% of species decreased in abundance between 1994 and 2016; acknowledges that the Scottish Government’s investment in biodiversity and nature restoration continues to grow, including through £250 million to restore peatlands, and through planting more trees than any other part of the UK every year, and urges both the UK and Scottish governments to emulate the EU nature restoration law by ramping up the pace of action to combat biodiversity loss, not least by introducing statutory nature restoration targets.

1536New Lanark grant

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 6

Angela Crawley

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Allan Dorans

Chris Stephens

That this House congratulates New Lanark Trust on their award of £2.3 million funding to ensure the future of the New Lanark UNESCO World Heritage site; understands that the funding from the National Heritage Memorial Fund’s Covid-19 Response Fund will allow New Lanark Trust to undertake maintenance on a number of the Category A listed buildings on the site, which have been delayed because of the pandemic; acknowledges that New Lanark was founded as a cotton-spinning village in 1785 by David Dale and was expanded by Robert Owen to become the biggest cotton mill in Scotland and one of the largest factory sites in the world with over 2,000 people living and working in the village; recognises that New Lanark Trust was established in 1974 to rescue the former cotton mill village from demolition and has successfully managed and preserved the site, leading to the UNESCO World Heritage Site designation in 2001 for their restoration work and the history and social philosophies of David Dale and Robert Owen; and commends New Lanark Trust for all their hard work and dedication over the last half century and wishes them well for the future.

1537Robbie Shepherd

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 6

Kirsty Blackman

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Allan Dorans

Chris Stephens

That this House recognises the life of Robbie Shepherd following his sad passing; acknowledges his outstanding contribution to broadcasting as host of Take the Floor; celebrates his accomplished literary works on Scottish country dancing and Scottish dance music; recalls his championing of Doric; and conveys condolences to his family and friends during this sad time, fit a richt guid loon, what a good man.

1538Elfyn Evans and the Rally of Finland

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 3

Jonathan Edwards

Jim Shannon

Chris Stephens

That this House congratulates Elfyn Evans and co-driver Scott Martin on winning the Rally of Finland held in August; notes that they are now placed second in the World Rally Championship; wishes Elfyn and Scott well for the remaining four events; and hopes they will win the Rally World Championship.

1539Emma Finucane UCI Individual Sprint world champion

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 3

Jonathan Edwards

Jim Shannon

Chris Stephens

That this House congratulates Emma Finucane from Carmarthen on winning the Women’s Individual Sprint Track Championship held in Glasgow in August at the age of only 20; congratulates Glasgow and Scotland on hosting a successful championship; notes that Emma is the third UK cyclist and second from Wales to become Individual Sprint world champion; and looks forward to following Emma’s career over the coming years.

1540FIFA Women's World Cup and the Lionesses' legacy

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 10

Munira Wilson

Wera Hobhouse

Layla Moran

Tim Farron

Sarah Olney

Sarah Green

That this House recognises the extraordinary achievements of the England women’s national football team, the Lionesses, on reaching the final of the FIFA Women’s World Cup 2023; notes the historic nature of their success, as the first time England’s Lionesses have reached a World Cup final, and only a year since their heroic victory at the UEFA Women’s Euro 2022; further notes that the only previous time an English senior national football team reached the World Cup final was in 1966, when the ban on women’s football was still in place; congratulates England’s No. 1, Mary Earps, on receiving the Golden Glove for the tournament, in addition to her well-earned title as FIFA Best Women’s Goalkeeper 2022; notes with disappointment the refusal of the England national teams’ sponsor to reproduce Earps’ kit to capture the wave of enthusiasm for goalkeeping she has inspired; praises every Lioness for their invaluable work on and off the pitch to encourage a new generation of footballing talent, regardless of gender; thanks them for their tireless campaigning to level the playing field, improving girls’ access to football and every child’s access to sport in school; calls on the Government to make good on their promise to honour the Lionesses’ legacy by ensuring every child has access to 2 hours of PE per week; and further calls for a progress report on how effective the Schools Games Mark and School Sports Action Plan have been in delivering equal access.

1541Photographer Joe Gilhooley

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 7

Owen Thompson

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Douglas Chapman

Allan Dorans

That this House acknowledges the supreme talents of photographer Joe Gilhooley from Loanhead, Midlothian; notes his recent success in a global photographic competition where his image Red Eyed Frog on an Orchid won third place; further notes his impressive list of previous achievements including winning The Scots Magazine Photographer of the Year in 2017 when he entered his Loch Rusky sunrise photograph in their national competition; applauds his further success at again winning the award in 2019; recognises his prodigious talents, selfless commitment and role in promoting photography; and wishes him every success in all of his future photographic endeavours.

1542FIFA Women's World Cup The Lionesses

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 4

Tracey Crouch

Jim Shannon

Mary Kelly Foy

Apsana Begum

That this House congratulates England's Lionesses on reaching the FIFA Women’s World Cup final; notes that the team under the brilliant stewardship of Sarina Wiegman gave everything right up to the final whistle; further notes that the team and the support staff deserve all the plaudits; highlights the team's impeccable sportsmanship throughout the tournament; thanks the team for being exceptional role models both at home and around the world; and recognises that all those achievements will have inspired girls and women to play football for years to come.

1543Nike women's goalkeeper shirt

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 3

Tracey Crouch

Jim Shannon

Mary Kelly Foy

That this House recognises the brilliance of the Lionesses’ goalkeeper Mary Earps; notes that Nike chose not to produce a replica shirt for England’s keeper, which has been criticised as shameful, hurtful and devaluing the role that the keeper plays in women’s football; and calls on Nike to reverse this decision and to put on sale Earps’ replica goalkeeper shirt, so that girls who were inspired by the FIFA Women’s World Cup and who want to play in goal feel that their role is as important as that of an outfield player.

1544Williamwood High School Rights Respecting award

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 6

Kirsten Oswald

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Drew Hendry

Allan Dorans

Chris Stephens

That this House congratulates Williamwood High School, East Renfrewshire on achieving the Gold: Rights Respecting award, which is granted to schools that have fully embedded the principles of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child into their curriculum; understands that the school's values of respect, kindness and ambition were developed in partnership with pupils, staff, parents and other stakeholders to explicitly tie to the ideals of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child; notes the range of activities undertaken by the school to achieve the award, including updating their equality policy to reflect the unique challenges of returning to in-person teaching, promoting the development of healthy lifestyles, training mental health first aiders, supporting pupils to become advocates for other young people globally including by hosting a Culture Day and focusing on Worlds Aids Day, LGBTQI+ equality groups and Black History Month; appreciates that the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child must be seen as a whole, that all rights are linked and no one right is seen as more important than another, and that the convention is the most widely ratified human rights treaty in the world; and wishes all the pupils, staff and parents well as they continue to support the implementation of the UN Convention on the Rights of the Child.

1545Greig Steven Memorial

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 7

Patricia Gibson

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Allan Dorans

That this House applauds the Greig Steven Memorial (GSM) for its work in supporting people of all ages living with cancer and their families, through its provision of a complimentary five-night stay at ‘Greig’s House’ located in Wemyss Bay within Park Dean Resorts; recognises the work of family, friends and colleagues of Greig Steven, who founded this charity after he sadly died in 2015, just six months after he was diagnosed with cholangiocarcinoma, a very rare and aggressive form of cancer; understands the annual ‘It’s a Knockout’ event hosted by the charity at Valefield Park in Kilbirnie in June raises significant funds, around £18,000 in 2023 alone, in support of its cause; and wishes the volunteers who work so hard to promote this charity every future success in Steven Greig’s memory and all the support it will continue to provide to those living with cancer and their families, now and in the future.

1546Peoples Ford Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia Pipe Band and the 2023 World Pipe Band Championships

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 6

Martyn Day

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Allan Dorans

Chris Stephens

That this House congratulates Peoples Ford Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia Pipe Band on their magnificent victory at the 2023 World Pipe Band Championships, held at Glasgow Green on 18 and 19 August in front of 35,000 spectators; notes that 190 bands and almost 9,000 pipers and drummers from 15 countries across the globe competed; commends the hard work and dedication of everyone involved in the Peoples Ford Boghall and Bathgate Caledonia Pipe Band in achieving this level of success; and wishes the Band all the very best in future competitions.

1547150th anniversary of Sacred Heart Parish, Glasgow

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 8

Alison Thewliss

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Drew Hendry

That this House congratulates Sacred Heart Parish in Bridgeton, Glasgow, on the 150th anniversary of it's founding; notes that the church was built through the efforts of it's first Parish Priest Father Edward Noonan, who performed the opening ceremony in the original wooden church in 1873; welcomes the commitment to education of this endeavour, with school facilities opening alongside the church in 1874, where they still remain at neighbouring Sacred Heart Primary School; recognises the role of Sacred Heart School's first headteacher, Andrew Kerins, better known as Brother Walfrid, in the growth of football in Glasgow for the purpose of raising funds for educating and feeding young Catholics through the Penny Dinner scheme, and thereafter the establishment of Celtic Football Club; appreciates that the growth of the church necessitated the construction of the present Church of the Sacred Heart, which was opened in 1910; congratulates all involved in the parish for their efforts over the years, and wishes them all the very best for the future.

1548Stonewall's Top 100 Employers list 2023

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 7

Angela Crawley

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Apsana Begum

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates the employers who secured a place on Stonewall’s Top 100 Employers list; commends the progressive work of those employers who are setting the highest standard of LGBT inclusivity in the workplace, which should be mirrored by all; regrets the Cabinet Office’s decision to remove itself from Stonewall’s Diversity Champions Programme in 2021; rejects claims that the Government’s involvement in such programme had disastrous consequences; expresses its disappointment that no UK Government Department has made Stonewall’s list in 2023; condemns the Government’s inaction on LGBT inclusivity in the workplace; recognises that the omission of Government Departments from Stonewall’s top 100 list reflects their position on LGBT inclusivity; and encourages all Government Departments to uphold the highest standards in workplace diversity, setting an example to all UK employers.

1549Carluke Primrose Orchestral Flutes

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 6

Angela Crawley

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Allan Dorans

Chris Stephens

That this House congratulates Carluke Primrose Orchestral Flutes on their Platinum Award at the Scottish Concert Band Festival; celebrates their success in being one of seven winning amateur groups chosen by a panel of esteemed judges for Classic FM and their Big Platinum Performance as part of their birthday celebrations and the Queen’s Jubilee in 2022; appreciates their musical talent and their role in enriching culture in Carluke; and wishes them success in their 41st annual concert.

1550Machan Trust

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 6

Angela Crawley

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Allan Dorans

Chris Stephens

That this House celebrates the 25th anniversary of the Machan Trust; recognises their meaningful work with young people, enabling them to reach their potential and better their lives; acknowledges the positive impact that the Machan Trust has had on Larkhall, building trusting relationships with young people, and working collaboratively with them to adopt healthy decision-making processes in their lives; values their role in enabling young people to participate in extracurricular activities; and wishes them every success with their 25 years celebration event.

1551Retirement of coxswain Joe Miller from RNLI Troon Lifeboat

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 12

Dr Philippa Whitford

Allan Dorans

Alan Brown

Patricia Gibson

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Joe Millar on his recent retirement from his role as coxswain of the RNLI Lifeboat in Troon, to which he has dedicated 31 years of service, initially as a volunteer, then as a full-time mechanic and, for the last 20 years, as coxswain; gives grateful thanks to Joe for his involvement in numerous rescues and for providing assistance to all types of vessels and persons in distress, including children on inflatable Unicorns, and for unselfishly giving of his own time to the community of Troon by hosting visits to the station and sharing his passion and dedication for the service with groups including primary and secondary schools, youth groups such as the Boys Brigade, Scouts and Guides, Army and Navy Cadets as well as many adult groups; highlights that Joe’s dedicated service has been recognised on several occasions, including four letters of commendation from the RNLI Chief of Operations and one from the RNLI Chief executive, along with a vellum for his leadership and boat handling during the rescue of four people from the Spes Bona V fishing boat; acknowledges Joe as a highly committed professional who is well respected and liked by all within Troon Lifeboat Station and beyond; and wishes Joe a happy retirement.

1552Trauma-informed public services

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 5

Rebecca Long Bailey

Jim Shannon

Mary Kelly Foy

Jon Trickett

Chris Stephens

That this House recognises that many organisations are implementing trauma-informed approaches, actively working to create a service where clients feel safe and empowered and won’t be re-traumatised; notes that many public services can inadvertently perpetuate trauma for vulnerable people they work with, given the nature of the services they provide and requirements for evidence or assessments to access specific support; acknowledges that the Government set out guidance in 2022 for a working definition of trauma-informed practice, which was a step in the right direction, based on the United States Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Administration definition; supports the calls from many charities including the Mental Health Foundation, Chayn, and Agenda Alliance for trauma-informed services; and calls on all Government departments to commit to becoming a trauma-informed UK, to achieving a trauma-informed and trauma-responsive workforce throughout the UK, and to consistently review how trauma-informed approaches could be adopted consistently during policy development and by public facing services under their jurisdiction, particularly the Home Office in terms of policing, immigration, passport and licensing application processes, the Department for Work and Pensions in terms of the welfare system, and the Department for Levelling Up, Housing and Communities in terms of social housing and temporary accommodation policy and regulation.

1553Lily Kelman's success at the World Highland Dancing Championships

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 7

Drew Hendry

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Douglas Chapman

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates Lily Kelman on her recent success at the Under 18 World Highland Dancing Championships; notes that Lily came runner up as well as being awarded best Scottish Dancer; and wishes Lily ongoing success for her upcoming competitions this year, and beyond.

1554Loch Ness 24 Challenge

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 7

Drew Hendry

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Douglas Chapman

Ms Anum Qaisar

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates all those who took part in this year’s Loch Ness 24 challenge; notes that this endurance trail requires participants to clock up as many 7km laps of the trail as possible within the 24 hour timeframe; celebrates female winner Rosie Doull for achieving 24 laps, and male winner Iain Bethune for achieving 29 laps; and, finally, thanks all those who dedicated their time to ensuring this event could go ahead safely.

1555Elsie Normington and the Haven Centre

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 7

Drew Hendry

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Douglas Chapman

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates Elsie Normington and the team at the Elsie Normington Foundation on the recent opening of the Haven Centre in Inverness; recognises that the Haven Centre is a purpose built centre and respite facility for children and adults with complex needs and disabilities with three two-bedroom respite flats for people up to the age of 30, an indoor specialist children’s play centre, a community café, meeting spaces and an outdoor garden; notes that the centre aims to provide an inclusive community space where children and young people with profound and multiple learning disabilities have opportunities to have fun, play, socialise and develop; notes that the Scottish Government committed £1.75 million of funding to allow this development to go ahead; and, finally, thanks all those who dedicated their time and resources to this incredible centre, most notably Elsie Normington, for her tireless dedication to improving the lives of those with additional needs in the Highlands.

1556The Loch Ness Centre in Drumnadrochit

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 7

Drew Hendry

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Douglas Chapman

Ms Anum Qaisar

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates the Loch Ness Centre in Drumnadrochit on their recent reopening on the 90th anniversary of the first Loch Ness Monster sighting; notes that the Centre has undergone a £1.5m transformation; recognises this hour long exhibit that brings the legend of Nessie to life, voiced by Scottish actor David Tennant; and, finally, pays thanks to all of those who dedicated their time to the refurbishment and reopening of this first-class Highland attraction.

1557Highland and Islands Third Sector Interface Saltire Awards

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 7

Drew Hendry

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Douglas Chapman

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates all those who were successful at the recent Highlands and Islands Third Sector Interface Saltire Awards; notes that these awards are a nationally recognised award for volunteering for young people aged 12-25 where they gain certificates signed by Scottish Ministers for the volunteering they have successfully achieved; and pays thanks to the hours of time these volunteers selflessly dedicated for the betterment of our local community.

155850th anniversary of the 1973 Chilean military coup

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 25

Mick Whitley

Jon Trickett

Ian Byrne

Jeremy Corbyn

Claudia Webbe

Margaret Greenwood

That this House notes that 11 September 2023 marks the 50th anniversary of the 1973 Chilean coup d’état; honours the heroic sacrifices of all those who resisted the murderous dictatorship of Augusto Pinochet between 1973 and 1990 and remembers the three thousand Chileans murdered by state security forces in that time; notes that, at the direction of the dictatorship, Chile was subject to a radical neoliberal experiment that came at enormous and lasting cost to the lives and standards of living of millions of working-class Chileans; condemns the longstanding diplomatic and political support given to the Pinochet regime by successive British and American governments; commends by contrast the solidarity demonstrated by the British trade union movement and those civic society groups which assisted approximately three thousand Chilean exiles in seeking asylum in the United Kingdom in the aftermath of the coup; believes that the overthrow of the democratically-elected government of Chile offers vital lessons for the modern-day when democracy around the globe is again threatened by authoritarianism, racism, and the self-interest of global capital; and restates its commitment to championing democracy, peace, and equality, taking as its inspiration President Allende’s final broadcast to the Chilean people, in which he said history is ours and people make history, and that much sooner than later, the great avenues will again be opened through which will pass free men to construct a better society.

1559Air Traffic Control disruption

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 4

Wera Hobhouse

Jim Shannon

Jonathan Edwards

Munira Wilson

That this House notes with concern that a major fault in the Air Traffic Control system lead to significant disruption for passengers; further notes that nearly 2,000 flights were cancelled with around 250,000 passengers disrupted; believes that the NATS service bears responsibility for the issue; further believes that the Government has let passengers down; urges compensation to be paid to passengers as quickly as possible, so no one is left out of pocket; calls on the Government to review the bonus payments for the NATS executive team following the disruption; and further urges them to ensure compensation for any future Air Traffic Control failure is paid automatically.

156010th anniversary of the passing of Seamus Heaney

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 5

Mr Gregory Campbell

Sir Mike Penning

Jim Shannon

Paul Girvan

Colum Eastwood

That this House notes the recent tenth anniversary of the passing of Nobel Laureate Seamus Heaney, whose poetry and verse have been read by millions; and acknowledges his Bellaghy roots in County Londonderry and his Irish Nationalist background, epitomised by a well-known quote from 1983 about not raising a glass to the Queen, followed in later years by another quote during a dispute about the flying of the Union Flag, where he admirably and accurately said, sure there’s never going to be a united Ireland, so why don’t you let them fly the flag.

1561Holm Grown community garden

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 7

Drew Hendry

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Douglas Chapman

Allan Dorans

That this House notes the opening of Holm Grown, a community garden in the Holm area of Inverness; recognises that Holm Grown is a community growing initiative led by Holm Community Council, run in partnership with Incredible Edible Inverness; commends the work that has been done over the last two years to transform previously unused land; thanks all volunteers and supporters who contributed to this projects success; and encourages all people in the local community to make use of this space, which is free for all to use.

1562VAT and the hospitality sector

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 9

Alyn Smith

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Douglas Chapman

Ms Anum Qaisar

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

That this House recognises the immense challenges facing the hospitality sector during the cost-of-living crisis; notes that the Government implemented a temporary cut of 5% on VAT for hospitality businesses during the pandemic; further notes that VAT is not devolved and can therefore only be set by the UK Government; adds that the UK is an outlier for having a flat rate of VAT across the whole economy unlike other European economies; notes that organisations such as the Scottish License and Trade Association, Scottish Beer and Pub Association and Scottish Hospitality Group support a cut of 5% on VAT as the most straightforward and effective policy measure to help many small and local businesses get through the current crisis; acknowledges that local hospitality businesses deliver an important social good to their communities as well as bring in vital income and jobs; and calls on the UK Government to implement a permanent cut of 5% on VAT for the hospitality sector to help hospitality businesses meet the challenges of the cost-of-living crisis.

1563175th anniversary of Conlig Presbyterian Church

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 2

Jim Shannon

Paul Girvan

That this House celebrates the 175th anniversary of Conlig Presbyterian Church; notes the opening of the Church in 1848; further notes that the building is beautiful and that it will host exhibitions on 9 and 10 September 2023; highlights that many of the pieces that will be on display are original and that the Church has many original features; celebrates this Church's incredible community spirit; and wishes the Church and its community all the very best for the future.

1564Management of anticoagulation-associated bleeds

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 3

Jim Shannon

Sir Mike Penning

Paul Girvan

That this House notes that an estimated 1.6 million people are living with atrial fibrillation in the UK; acknowledges that atrial fibrillation is a contributing factor in one in five strokes; welcomes the NHS’s commitment to improve the early detection and treatment of atrial fibrillation; further notes NHS England’s commitment to expand access to direct oral anticoagulants to help prevent 21,700 strokes and save 5,400 lives over a three-year period; further acknowledges that anticoagulants carry an increased risk of life-threatening bleeding, particularly within the gastrointestinal tract; recognises that the increase in anticoagulation medication will likely lead to an increased number of associated bleeds; further acknowledges the variation within the management of anticoagulation-associated bleeds; urges the National Institute for Health and Care Excellence to review and update clinical guidelines to improve outcomes within the management of anticoagulation-associated bleeds; and calls on NHS England to establish policies to reduce the variation within the management of anticoagulation-associated bleeds and improve patient outcomes.

156525th anniversary of Omagh bombing

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 3

Jim Shannon

Sir Mike Penning

Paul Girvan

That this House marks the 25th anniversary of the 1998 Omagh bombing, the bomb planted by the Real IRA that killed 29 people including a pregnant woman with twins; remembers that a large car bomb exploded on a Saturday afternoon in the centre of Omagh, Co Tyrone, when the town's main street was crowded with shoppers and that more than 200 people were injured; notes that it has been described as the worst single atrocity in almost 30 years of the Troubles in Northern Ireland; highlights the independent inquiry into the bombing, which should bring some form of justice and, more importantly, closure to the family and close friends of the victims of the bombing; and further notes that neither those 29 people, 16 of whom were under the age of 25, nor the deplorable actions of the Real IRA, will ever be forgotten.

1566Rosshall Disc Golf Course 10th anniversary

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 5

Chris Stephens

Jim Shannon

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

Allan Dorans

That this House congratulates Rosshall Disc Golf Course on its 10th anniversary; understands that Glasgow Disc Golf Club in partnership with Friends of Rosshall Park will be putting on an event in the park on Saturday 28 October where anyone will be able to try the game of disc golf; further understands that coaching on the basics of the game will be provided by local players and that discs will be supplied; notes that the sport of disc golf has seen huge growth in recent years and that Glasgow is the only city in the UK to benefit from four free-to-play disc golf courses, with a fifth currently in development; observes that while the course in Rosshall Park had become somewhat neglected, new players brought their enthusiasm and hard work to ensure that the course is playable for people of all ages and abilities; further observes that the course at Rosshall Park is one of the courses that make up the Quaich Tour, which will see a national champion emerge at the end of the season; and recognises fundraising by local players, which helped Scottish players Rachel Turton and Chris Smith to travel to Estonia in August to take part in the European Disc Golf Championships.

1567Harry Frew

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 10

Chris Stephens

Grahame Morris

Jim Shannon

Jonathan Edwards

Chris Law

Ms Anum Qaisar

That this House recognises the life and work of Harry Frew, former UCAAT Scottish Secretary and STUC President, who died in August 2023; recognises his lifelong work as one of Scotland's trade unionists over many years and his work as a painter and decorator; sends condolences to his family at this time; further recognises his work to increase pay and conditions for all workers at home and abroad and against inequality and injustice; recognises the esteem in which he was held by his many friends and colleagues; and offers condolences to all who knew him.

1568All Party Groups

Tabled: 4/09/23 Signatories: 2

Sir Peter Bottomley

Jim Shannon

That this House recognises the intention to deal with abuses, including the improper influences of foreign powers and commercial interests; and requires the Committee on Standards to consult directly with Members who help poor, vulnerable and unrecognised groups to gain parliamentary attention before reviewing undesirable sledgehammers to crack the wrong nuts.