Contents

Published: Thursday 7 December 2023

Early Day Motions tabled on Wednesday 6 December 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

156Volunteering by Swifts FC Girls u-12s, 9s and 7s

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 1

Douglas Chapman

That this House commends Izzy Breach, Robyn Clarkson, Lucy Final, Amy Innes, Erin Lane, Sophia Hanlin, Erin Milne, Ellie Breach, Ava Morris, Olivia Morris and Keira Moffat from Swifts FC, based in Inverkeithing, Fife for volunteering as ball girls at the European Nations League qualifiers for amputee football; notes that over two days, during terrible weather, they ensured games finished on time and were full of action without delay; recognises the girls' conscientiousness which helped raise the profile of amputee football in Scotland and across Europe; commends them for being a fantastic credit to their parents and ambassadors for the club; and thanks them for giving up their time to help others.

15710th anniversary of the 2013 Glasgow helicopter crash

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 1

Alison Thewliss

That this House recognises that 29 November 2023 was the 10 year anniversary of the tragic helicopter crash at the Clutha Bar in Glasgow city centre; recalls that on 29 November 2013, a police helicopter with three crew members on board crashed into the Clutha Bar on Stockwell Street, killing all three crew members and seven patrons of the bar and injuring a further 31; commends the dedication and bravery of Glasgow's emergency services on the scene of the crash, including 125 firefighters, more than 25 ambulances, and two Special Operations Response Teams; understands that as a result of recommendations made by the Air Accidents Investigation Branch after the accident, the Civil Aviation Authority mandated that all police helicopters be fitted with Cockpit Voice Recorders and Flight Data Recorders; appreciates that the Clutha reopened its doors in July 2015, in a ceremony attended by then-First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon; and expresses its continued sympathy for all those impacted by the catastrophe, and its deepest regret for the casualties of the events of 29 November 2023.

158Zain Iqbal named Glasgow Young Sportsperson of the Year 2023

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 1

Alison Thewliss

That this House congratulates Zain Iqbal of Southside Boxing Academy for being named Glasgow Young Sportsperson of the Year at the Glasgow Sport Awards 2023; notes that Zain received this award after winning the gold medal at the Scottish and GB School Championships, and the silver medal at the European School Championships in 2023; recognises the fantastic work of the Southside Boxing Academy, which has worked to provide a full range of boxing classes for boys, girls, men and women since its foundation in 2018; acknowledges the significance of this achievement; and wishes Zain and Southside Boxing Academy all the best in all future endeavours.

15933rd anniversary of Cathouse Glasgow rock club

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 1

Alison Thewliss

That this House congratulates Cathouse Glasgow, Glasgow's oldest rock club, on the 33rd anniversary of its opening on 22 November 22 1990; acknowledges the contribution of Donald Macleod MBE in establishing the club; recognises the immense contribution of Cathouse to Glasgow's nightlife and cultural flourishing over the years; acknowledges that over the years Cathouse has played host to live performances from world-famous and commercially successful bands such as Anthrax, Black Stone Cherry, Halestorm, Pearl Jam, Fall Out Boy, Queens of the Stone Age, and many others; commits itself to supporting the continued flourishing of the Glasgow night-time economy sector, represented by such iconic institutions of the city as Cathouse; and wishes the staff and management of Cathouse all the best in all future endeavours.

160Raza Sadiq and the sportscotland Lifetime Contribution Award

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 1

Alison Thewliss

That this House congratulates Raza Sadiq, a founder and chairperson of Active Life Club, on his receipt of the sportscotland Lifetime Contribution Award; recognises that the award has been issued after 24 years of dedicated work with Active Life Club, which seeks to provide opportunities for kids, teens and adults to get involved in sports, art, dance and social events across the Southside of Glasgow; welcomes Mr Sadiq's immense contribution to providing opportunities for hundreds of young people in the local community to participate in sport, with a particular emphasis on his work to ensure the inclusion of Glasgow's BAME community; and wishes him well in all future endeavours.

161Recognition of Girvan in South Ayrshire as Most Dog Friendly Town in the UK

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 1

Allan Dorans

That this House recognises and congratulates the town and people of Girvan, South Ayrshire on winning the prestigious Dog Friendly UK awards and recognition as the Most Dog Friendly Town in the United Kingdom, achieving the most public votes of the 122 entrants in the town or city category; notes especially the contribution of the Go Girvan Project, Trustees and local volunteers for their leadership, co-ordination of the project, and their involvement and partnership working with local businesses; further notes that the initiative included introducing a Go Girvan dog-friendly sticker scheme, highlighting over 30 local businesses in the scheme including cafes, shops, pubs, visitor attractions and accommodation providers, and promoting Girvan as a dog-friendly visitor destination by further highlighting the dog-friendly beach which extends to almost two miles, local dog-friendly walks and other dog-friendly activities; and notes the benefits to the local economy by attracting visitors to shop and spend time in the area and increasingly recognising the attractiveness of Girvan as a positive, thriving and welcoming tourist destination.

162Moroccan Paradise Golf and Beach Resort and Atlantic View Development

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 1

Kirsten Oswald

That this House understands that some 800 investors, 300 of whom were British, made investments in the Moroccan Paradise Golf and Beach Resort and Atlantic View Development which was first advertised in 2006; notes the development was subsequently promoted in 2010 as part of Morocco’s Vision 2020 tourism plan receiving some £35 million of foreign investment of which just £12 million appears able to be accounted for; further notes that the development was marketed as a luxurious five-star tourist resort near the city of Tangier but remains incomplete after construction halted in 2009; recognises the distress that this long-running dispute has caused investors who have failed to recoup their initial investments; further understands that UK government ministers have raised the issue of the incomplete resort at meetings with their Moroccan counterparts since 2016 which have been described as constructive but not conclusive; and calls on the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to take all necessary actions to bring a about a swift resolution to this dispute, with investors being refunded in full.

163Sky lanterns

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 1

Sir Greg Knight

That this House is concerned that sky lanterns, also known as Chinese lanterns, continue to pose a serious fire safety hazard due to their uncontrolled and unpredictable flight paths, and are dangerous to livestock, wildlife, crops and the environment; notes that these hazards are exacerbated in rural areas in summer; further notes that the voluntary code on their use is not being universally respected; and calls on the Government to introduce an outright ban on flame-powered sky lanterns.

164Government Property Agency, ISS and outsourced workers

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 2

John McDonnell

Chris Stephens

That this House is extremely concerned about the Government Property Agency’s handling of the transfer of facilities management services from Mitie to ISS with respect to the implications for workers whose employment has transferred; notes that the pay arrangements for cleaners and caterers are being shifted from a monthly to a bi-weekly basis; believes that the shorter frequency will make it harder for workers to pay their monthly rent, mortgage and other essential bills, and that such regular fluctuation in pay dates and amounts can have serious detrimental consequences for workers claiming Universal Credit; notes that the changes represent a unilateral variation to the workers’ contracts of employment made without the agreement of the individual employees affected and their representatives in the Public and Commercial Services Union; fears that these changes are discriminatory as they have only been applied to a section of the workforce in which BAME women are more likely to be employed; and therefore calls on the Government Property Agency to require ISS to align pay arrangements for caterers and cleaners with those of their monthly salaried staff.

165Mearns Cycling Club

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 1

Kirsten Oswald

That this House commends Niaz Haq for setting up Mearns Cycling Club, whose members predominantly reside in Newton Mearns and Giffnock, and is open to riders of all abilities; notes that the club has grown rapidly since it was first founded and now has up to 60 riders attending sessions every week; applauds the club’s group charter which promotes camaraderie between members of the club, by ensuring the front rider of a group is alternated during a ride to lessen the impact of wind resistance for others; understands the club has organised special runs, including during Ramadan, in Gran Canaria, and across Scotland’s scenic countryside; acknowledges the wide range of benefits that cycling can have on the physical, mental, and social health of riders; and wishes all the riders at Mearns Cycling Club well as they continue to pursue their cycling hobby.

166Scots Trad Music Awards 2023 original work of the year

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 1

Mr Alistair Carmichael

That this House congratulates Skipinnish for their song The Clearances Again winning original work of the year at the Scots Trad Music Awards; notes that the song was written in protest against plans by the Scottish Government to block fishing in 10 per cent of Scottish waters with the creation of highly protected marine areas (HPMAs); recognises that the popularity of The Clearances Again formed an important part of the local campaign against the imposition of HPMAs in the Highlands and Islands; welcomes the Scottish Government’s recent dropping of the controversial plans; and wishes Skipinnish success in their future creative work.

167Scots Trad Music Awards 2023

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 1

Mr Alistair Carmichael

That this House congratulates all the nominees and winners in the Scots Trad Music Awards; recognises that 2023 marks the 20th year of the awards, having first been established in 2003; notes in particular that the Orkney Folk Festival was named event of the year, while long-time volunteer and committee member of the Shetland Folk Festival Mhari McLeman was named traditional music enabler of the year; believes that traditional folk music represents a vital part of the cultural heritage of the Highlands and Islands and Scotland as a whole; and wishes local musicians further success as Scottish folk music goes from strength to strength.

168Clarkston Chanukah celebration

Tabled: 6/12/23 Signatories: 1

Kirsten Oswald

That this House wishes all those celebrating a Happy Chanukah; notes that Chanukah 2023 begins on Thursday 7 December; appreciates the efforts made across communities to mark the miraculous festival of lights; recognises the tireless work undertaken by Debra Clapham to secure a Menorah, donated by East Renfrewshire Council which replaced a Menorah previously donated by Sholom Jacobs of the Lubavitch Foundation; welcomes the fact that the Menorah is displayed at Clarkston Toll, shining on the communities of East Renfrewshire; understands that the custom is to light one candle on the first night and then add a candle each subsequent night; appreciates the efforts of Clarkston Chanukah Celebration Association, working with local organisations including Giffnock Newton Mearns Synagogue, to bring people together from across the diverse communities of East Renfrewshire to celebrate together at this time of year; recognises the joy and appreciation felt by those joining these celebrations; and sends all those celebrating best wishes for Chanukah.

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.

94Lawfield Primary School in Midlothian

Tabled: 22/11/23 Signatories: 4

Owen Thompson

Anne McLaughlin

Allan Dorans

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Lawfield Primary School for becoming the first school in Midlothian to win the Sport Scotland Gold School Sports Award; acknowledges that the Mayfield school is one of only 104 schools to achieve the accolade; recognises the work of acting headteacher Jennifer Allison, active schools co-ordinator Carolyn Cameron, PE teacher Enrique Castillo and pupils and other staff; further recognises the school’s bid to use sport to support wider achievement; admires the school’s work to break down barriers to participation and make sure all pupils have opportunities to be active, inspired and enjoy sport; and wishes all pupils, staff and parents every success in the future.

95Retirement of Stephen McLellan from Recovery Across Mental Health

Tabled: 22/11/23 Signatories: 9

Mhairi Black

Kirsten Oswald

Gavin Newlands

Patrick Grady

Chris Stephens

Jim Shannon

That this House congratulates Stephen McLellan for his 33 years of service in the West of Scotland for Recovery Across Mental Health (RAMH); notes that RAMH do vital work giving support to individuals and communities that experience mental ill health; recognises that Stephen’s efforts and contribution in supporting our communities have been both admirable and invaluable; and wishes Stephen all the best for his retirement.

98Cost of applying for indefinite leave under the bereaved partner concession

Tabled: 22/11/23 Signatories: 17

Stuart C McDonald

Steven Bonnar

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Claire Hanna

Patrick Grady

Ben Lake

That this House supports the Refugee and Migrant Forum of Essex and London’s call for a fee waiver to be introduced for grieving widows applying for indefinite leave to remain under the bereaved partner concession; notes that the death of a loved one brings multiple emotional, practical and financial costs; acknowledges that people whose leave to remain in the UK is tied to a partner who dies are in a particularly vulnerable situation; regrets that the spouses of deceased partners are now required to pay £2,885 for the concession despite the application costing just £491 for the government to process; further notes that people who cannot afford this fee may be forced to leave the UK or face detention and removal after the death of their partner; notes that the lack of a fee waiver for the concession discriminates against women who constitute almost 70 per cent of those on family visas; believes it is irrational for the government to introduce a concession in recognition of these applicants’ vulnerability but first insist on payment of a fee that people cannot afford; and calls for a fee waiver to be introduced.

100Sporting ambitions of children on dependent visas

Tabled: 23/11/23 Signatories: 7

Daisy Cooper

Wendy Chamberlain

Chris Stephens

Jim Shannon

John McDonnell

Mohammad Yasin

That this House notes that some people who are legally residing in the United Kingdom have children attached to their dependent visas who are extremely talented at sports; expresses extreme disappointment at the refusal of the Home Office to establish a route for these talented children on dependent visas to enter a professional sporting environment to further their career; regrets that children who have entered the UK dependants are precluded from pursuing a professional sporting career; and calls on the Government to engage with the Professional Footballers Association, football clubs and other sporting bodies that want to nurture the sporting talent of these young people.

106Nuclear test veterans

Tabled: 27/11/23 Signatories: 14

Daisy Cooper

Jim Shannon

Gavin Robinson

Jonathan Edwards

Rachael Maskell

Owen Thompson

That this House acknowledges the treatment of nuclear test veterans in the UK; notes their continuing battle for justice and recognition for their role; further notes with disappointment the delays in issuing of medals to these veterans; further acknowledges their ongoing anger and frustration; affirms the nation’s duty of care to this group of people; applauds the work of Labrats International, a campaigning group for descendants of atomic testing programs across the world; and calls on the Government to fully support these veterans and their families.

107154th anniversary of the founding of the Durham Miners’ Association

Tabled: 27/11/23 Signatories: 14

Mary Kelly Foy

Jim Shannon

Jon Trickett

Grahame Morris

Jonathan Edwards

Kate Osborne

That this House celebrates the 154th anniversary of the founding of the Durham Miners’ Association; recognises that, within three years of its founding, the Durham Miners’ Association had secured the abolition of bonded labour practices; further recognises its remarkable contributions to trade unionism and the wider labour movement; thanks the Durham Miners' Association for its cultural and economic contribution to Durham and beyond; commends the Durham Miners' Association for the enormous success of the 2023 Durham Miners’ Gala, which saw thousands of people gather for the 137th iteration of the Big Meeting; encourages everyone to attend the Durham Miners Gala next year to mark the 40th anniversary of the great strike of 1984-5; and further encourages everyone to become a Marra by joining the Friends of the Durham Miners’ Gala.

109Community ownership of Lismore Post Office and shop

Tabled: 27/11/23 Signatories: 6

Brendan O'Hara

Jim Shannon

Anne McLaughlin

Dr Philippa Whitford

Allan Dorans

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Lismore Community Trust and the residents of the island on successfully bringing into community ownership the Lismore Post Office and shop, which were earmarked for closure; notes that, through the purchase of community shares by more than 200 people in the local community, the Trust raised the remarkable sum of £80,000 and was therefore able to secure the future of Post Office and shop for at least the next five years; commends the Trust and the local community for recognising the importance of the Post Office, not just as a lifeline for many in the community but for being absolutely crucial to the future viability of island; further commends the Trust and local community in having the vision and confidence to take the Post Office into the community ownership; wishes the Trust and the people of Lismore every success in the future; and hopes that other communities facing the loss of vital services will be encouraged to explore the option of community ownership and be inspired by what has been achieved by the community of Lismore.

111Wee Chippy and the Scottish Fish and Chip Awards

Tabled: 27/11/23 Signatories: 5

Wendy Chamberlain

Jim Shannon

Sarah Dyke

Mohammad Yasin

Christine Jardine

That the House commends the Wee Chippy in Anstruther on winning its second national award this year; understands that the fish and chip shop in the East Neuk of North East Fife won the people’s choice prize at the Scottish Fish and Chip Awards on Monday 13 November at an award ceremony in Glasgow; notes that this recent success follows the Wee Chippy winning in its category at the Scottish Restaurant Awards earlier this year; recognises that this is a huge success for the business, which has been open since 1999 and is a testament to its staff’s hard work and the quality of their service; further notes that this award is a result of the esteem in which the business is held by residents and visitors alike; and welcomes the contribution of the Wee Chippy and other hospitality businesses to the local economy.

112HALO Trust mine clearance record

Tabled: 27/11/23 Signatories: 10

Fabian Hamilton

Jim Shannon

Gavin Robinson

Chris Law

John McDonnell

Kim Johnson

That this House pays tribute to the HALO Trust on successfully clearing two million mines since its establishment in 1988; commends the staff, past and present, who have contributed to this remarkable milestone; notes that the HALO Trust is one of just two British mine clearance organisations; notes that the HALO Trust has cleared landmines in 29 countries, saved an estimated two million lives and enabled over ten million people to have safer access to schools, health clinics and farming land; reiterates our commitment to clearing landmines which continue to endanger lives around the world; and expresses our gratitude to the HALO Trust for its remarkable work in conflict affected countries in making communities safer and more prosperous.

113COP28

Tabled: 27/11/23 Signatories: 31

Caroline Lucas

Alex Sobel

Claire Hanna

Mary Kelly Foy

Jim Shannon

Wera Hobhouse

That this House notes that COP28 in Dubai marks a critical moment in efforts to secure a liveable future; expresses profound alarm that, according to the UN, governments plan to produce double the amount of fossil fuels in 2030 than is consistent with limiting global heating to 1.5 degrees and that current pledges under the Paris Agreement would lead to a 2.5-2.9°C temperature rise this century; welcomes the Prime Minister's attendance at COP28 in person and calls on him to work with other leaders to deliver an agreement on the urgent and just phase-out of all fossil fuels in recognition of the end of the fossil fuel era; calls on the UK to back an ambitious political deal in response to the Global Stocktake; further notes the damaging impact of the delayed delivery of the $100bn climate finance pledge and the UK’s changes to its climate finance definitions on trust between countries and efforts to achieve the Paris Agreement goals; urges the Government to deliver its existing climate finance commitments in full, ensure funding is new and additional and support efforts to increase climate finance at COP28, laying the ground work for agreement of the New Collective Quantified Goal; notes that the full operationalisation of a properly resourced Loss and Damage Finance Fund will be the litmus test of success at COP28; and further urges the UK to support this goal and to contribute by providing grant-based funds which are additional to existing ODA and climate finance commitments.

118Carntyne Primary School win road safety award

Tabled: 28/11/23 Signatories: 9

Anne McLaughlin

Jim Shannon

Dr Philippa Whitford

Allan Dorans

Stuart C McDonald

Marion Fellows

That this House congratulates pupils from Carntyne Primary School for winning Best Props at the School Travel and Road Safety Film Awards Ceremony; recognises the hard work and dedication of the pupils and staff who have highlighted the importance of road safety; acknowledges the time and effort put into raising awareness of road safety by pupils, staff and parents; and looks forward to hearing more success stories from Carntyne Primary School and its talented pupils in the future.

12040th anniversary of Spark

Tabled: 28/11/23 Signatories: 6

Hannah Bardell

Jim Shannon

Dr Philippa Whitford

Allan Dorans

Alison Thewliss

Chris Law

That this House celebrates the 40th anniversary of Spark in West Lothian; commends every volunteer and staff member who are dedicated to supporting the Livingston community and preventing social isolation by ensuring that all members of the community feel valued and have the chance to spark their potential; recognises that the group started 40 years ago as the Craigshill Good Neighbour Network that allowed those moving to the New Town of Livingston to connect and share skills; further recognises that Spark have now significantly expanded their services to include weekly craft session, computer skills courses, exercise sessions and mindfulness classes; and wishes every ongoing success to Spark for the future.

121Anniversary of the Bhopal gas leak

Tabled: 28/11/23 Signatories: 16

Mr Virendra Sharma

Jim Shannon

Jonathan Edwards

John McDonnell

Kim Johnson

Lloyd Russell-Moyle

That this House remembers 2 and 3 December 1984, when a Union Carbide factory leaked ultra-toxic chemical methyl isocyanate across sixteen square miles of the city of Bhopal, India, exposing 573,000 people to poison gases; deplores the continuing suffering in Bhopal 39 years after the world's worst industrial disaster; recognises a 2023 study of the university of San Diego that finds eight times higher rates of cancer among those in utero in 1984; notes that 200,000 people now live in areas in which persistent organic pollutants such as organochlorines, solvents and heavy metals contaminate drinking water due to thousands of tons of toxic wastes dumped around the factory being left uncleaned, despite Carbide knowing of the threats to health since the 1980’s; notes Carbide’s owner Dow Inc refuses India’s criminal jurisdiction, in violation of international law, in a manslaughter case concerning the deaths of over 23,000 people; commends the work of Indian civil society groups, the International Campaign for Justice in Bhopal, the Trades Union Congress, UNISON and Action for Bhopal in campaigning on this issue; further commends UK charity the Bhopal Medical Appeal for providing free care to Bhopal’s damaged children; and calls for justice and dignity for the victims, who have been waiting 39 years to finally receive closure.

123Launch of The Rational Policy-Maker’s Guide to the NHS report

Tabled: 28/11/23 Signatories: 18

Richard Burgon

Caroline Lucas

Kenny MacAskill

Margaret Greenwood

Ian Byrne

Jim Shannon

This House welcomes the publication of the report The Rational Policy-Maker’s Guide to the NHS; supports the report’s main conclusions that the NHS is the best and most cost-effective healthcare model yet to be demonstrated in practice in an advanced economy, that the current serious underperformance of the NHS is not the result of its publicly-funded and publicly-provided model but the inevitable result of 13 years of underfunding, and that the worsening health of the British public resulting from this underinvestment is holding back economic growth; notes that the NHS was, until recently, consistently regarded as the best health service in the world by the Commonwealth Fund; further believes that NHS funding has failed to keep pace with need and that no healthcare system can withstand the levels of sustained underfunding experienced by the NHS since 2010 without significant deterioration in its performance; rejects calls for any greater role for the private sector in the NHS, for any privatisation of the NHS or any replacement of funding through progressive taxation with direct charges or what would be a more expensive insurance-based system; and encourages all hon. Members to read the report and policy-makers to act in line with its recommendations and findings.

127Shared rural mobile coverage

Tabled: 29/11/23 Signatories: 9

Helen Morgan

Wendy Chamberlain

Tim Farron

Jim Shannon

Richard Foord

Jamie Stone

That this House notes that mobile signal in rural areas is significantly poorer than in urban areas; is concerned that 9 per cent of rural areas in the UK do not have access to a 4G signal; recognises that this has a detrimental impact on communities and businesses in rural areas; is further concerned that the Autumn Statement did not contain plans to address the poor 4G coverage in rural areas; understands that geographically, only 82 per cent of the UK has access to 4G signal from all four Mobile Network Operators signed to the Shared Rural Network; and urges the Government to ensure that there is good access to at at least a 4G mobile signal in all parts of the UK by requiring Mobile Network Operators either to share masts and network equipment or implement rural roaming for consumers.

128BBC investigative journalism

Tabled: 29/11/23 Signatories: 24

John McDonnell

Grahame Morris

Rachael Maskell

Owen Thompson

Jim Shannon

Ian Lavery

That this House deplores the announcement by the BBC that more than half the jobs on flagship weekday evening programme Newsnight will be lost as part of the latest misguided Digital First savings strategy; regrets that Newsnight will no longer screen investigative reporting and will be truncated to just thirty minutes; is further concerned by proposed reductions to the budget of Panaroma; welcomes investment into the creation of digital news content but remains deeply sceptical of claims that this will compensate for cuts to flagship investigative news programmes; and calls on BBC management to work constructively with the National Union of Journalists to avoid compulsory redundancies and retain the key skills and expertise of its investigative journalists.

130Sportswoman Samantha Gough

Tabled: 29/11/23 Signatories: 6

Owen Thompson

Jim Shannon

Jonathan Edwards

Allan Dorans

Alison Thewliss

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Samantha Gough for winning the Midlothian’s Young People Award in recognition of her supreme dedication to sport; applauds her efforts to advocate for people with disabilities; acknowledges her civic mindedness for volunteering within her local community; notes her success in winning bronze in the European Para Youth Games last year; further notes her outstanding contribution to women's blind football and goalball; and wishes Samantha and her family every success in the future.

135University of Edinburgh and generative artificial intelligence

Tabled: 30/11/23 Signatories: 16

Tommy Sheppard

Jonathan Edwards

Dr Philippa Whitford

Allan Dorans

Deidre Brock

Christine Jardine

That this House celebrates the successful launch of the Generative Artificial Intelligence Laboratory (GAIL) at the University of Edinburgh on 9 November 2023; acknowledges that the university is a leader in artificial intelligence (AI), as exhibited by its celebration of 60 years of AI research this year; supports that GAIL will develop techniques for generative AI in key areas such as robotics, drug discovery, medical diagnoses, semi-conductor development and tackling climate change; understands experts will also work with the university’s Centre for Technomoral Futures to develop ethical, legal and regulatory frameworks necessary to ensure the safe and responsible use of AI; further supports the university’s development of relationships with various public and private sector partners, which will allow for even more innovative discovery and economic growth in Scotland and the wider UK with the implementation of GAIL; and once again congratulates the university on its successful launch of GAIL and its continued work on AI.

136Glencore’s mining activities in Colombia and Peru (No. 3)

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 8

Tony Lloyd

Jonathan Edwards

Martin Docherty-Hughes

Jim Shannon

Mary Kelly Foy

Brendan O'Hara

That this House expresses its concerns regarding the environmental and health impacts of the Carbones de Cerrejón open-pit coalmine in Colombia and the Antapaccay-Coroccohuayco mine in Espinar in Peru, both owned by British-registered multinational Glencore Plc; notes that eight UN Special Rapporteurs called for a halt to Cerrejón’s mining operations because of health and environmental concerns; highlights the specific concerns of the Colombian Wayuu indigenous peoples and the UN Special Rapporteurs regarding contamination of the air, water and vegetation, irreversible biodiversity loss and damage to the globally important dry forest ecosystem; expresses its concern regarding documented child malnutrition in communities near the Cerrejón mine; further highlights indigenous peoples’ concerns regarding the beyond permissible levels of heavy metals in Espinar; highlights reports that the information needed to comply with informed consent under ILO Convention 169 for the Espinar mine’s expansion is not available to communities; notes that Glencore is suing the Colombian government pursuant to the investor–state dispute settlement mechanism clause within an applicable trade agreement challenging a Colombian High Court decision upholding the fundamental rights of indigenous peoples in relation to the Bruno Stream, Arroyo Bruno; calls on the UK Government to join other governments which do not include an investor state dispute settlement mechanism provision in their trade agreements, thereby preventing companies from suing governments over climate policies; and further calls on the UK to adopt a business, human rights and environment act to protect communities harmed by mining linked to UK companies and their supply chains.

137Ann Nisbet and the 2023 Doolan Best Building award

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 4

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Jim Shannon

Alison Thewliss

Chris Law

That this House congratulations to Ann Nisbet for securing the title of Scotland's Best Building of the Year 2023, awarded by the Royal Incorporation of Architects; applauds Ann and her studio for their outstanding achievement in designing and bringing to life a building within a ruin, a project that stood out and earned her this prestigious accolade; recognises the dedication and skill demonstrated by Ann in preserving the character of the original structure and its harmonious integration with the landscape in Cuddymoss, Ayrshire; and extends best wishes to Ann for continued success in her future endeavours.

138EmilyTest Gender-Based Violence Charter Award to St Andrews

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 4

Wendy Chamberlain

Jim Shannon

Christine Jardine

Alison Thewliss

That the House commends the University of St Andrews on becoming the first university in the UK to be granted the EmilyTest Gender-Based Violence Charter Award; understands that the University was presented with the award on 22 November by the charity’s founder and CEO Fiona Drouet MBE and Scottish Minister for Higher and Further Education Graeme Dey; recognises that achieving the award involved significant work by both students and staff and involved the University’s policies, practices and procedures on gender-based violence being assessed by a trained independent panel; believes that the award demonstrates the University’s commitment to achieving a campus that is responsible in tackling gender-based violence; notes that the charity EmilyTest was founded by Fiona Drouet after her daughter Emily, an 18-year-old undergraduate law student, took her own life after being subjected to a sustained campaign of abuse at the hands of a fellow student; further notes that the charity focuses on tackling gender-based violence in education and, alongside the Charter, has developed training programmes and a risk assessment, helping to ensure universities and colleges have the skills, training and resources needed to keep students safe; congratulates the University on taking steps to ensure that it can tackle gender-based violence effectively; and encourages other education institutions to work towards the award.

139No.40 by Bruin's first birthday

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 4

Amy Callaghan

Jim Shannon

Alison Thewliss

Chris Law

That this House commends No.40 by Bruin on its first birthday; recognises the contribution they make to the community in Bearsden, especially by supporting local suppliers and promoting small Scottish businesses; notes its focus on sustainability, helping the local community to access high-quality goods which are responsibly sourced; celebrates the community it has created through its friendly atmosphere and regular events; and wishes everyone at No.40 by Bruin all the best for the future.

14070th anniversary of Ayr Hospital Radio

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 7

Allan Dorans

Martin Docherty-Hughes

Jim Shannon

Patrick Grady

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Alison Thewliss

That this House recognises, celebrates and congratulates Ayr Hospital Radio, one of Scotland’s oldest hospital radio stations on their 70th anniversary; notes that Ayr Hospital Radio was initially established in 1953 to provide patients in Ayr Hospital with live commentary of Ayr United Football Club match days; further notes that it has developed over the years as a charity and is now based at the University Hospital Ayr, with a team of currently about twenty five volunteers; observes that it is a live, seven days a week radio service, broadcasting an eclectic range of music and entertainment for patients in local hospitals and available on the world wide web for the local community; highlights that it provides the opportunity for patients requests and for relatives and friends to request dedication for patients, contributing to their recovery and wellbeing; further highlights that it provides training, skills and experience for volunteers in broadcasting; notes especially the contribution on Mr Mike Manley, one of the original founders and longest serving volunteer, the volunteer Management Committee; and gives thanks to all the volunteers over the last 70 years for their contribution to the community.

141Perth Racecourse and the Racecourse Association Showcase Awards 2023

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 5

Pete Wishart

Jonathan Edwards

Jim Shannon

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Perth Racecourse on its victory in the Diversity and Inclusion category of the Racecourse Association's 2023 Showcase Awards; understands that this award was in recognition of Perth Racecourse's Pride Raceday event, the first-headline billed Pride Raceday in British racing, which attracted thousands of new racegoers to Perth for the first time; and commends Perth Racecourse on its commitment to creating an unrivalled racing experience that offers a blend of tradition and innovation for racing enthusiasts, business and the local community.

142Venezuela and Guyana

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 4

Daniel Kawczynski

Mr Rob Roberts

Jim Shannon

Andrew Rosindell

That this House recognises neither the illegitimate Socialist dictator of Venezuela as President nor his immoral and dangerous referendum to try to seize vast territory from Guyana; notes that this border was settled over 100 years ago; believes that in his attempt to distract the Venezuelan people from the economic disaster that his hard Socialism has brought to the country he is attempting to steal land from Guyana now that this country has found large oil and gas reserves; given the highly biased nature of the questions and extensive irregularities of the referendum urges the Foreign, Commonwealth and Development Office to publicly condemn and reject the outcome; also urges the Government, as the former colonial power, to come to the assistance of Guyana to protect that nation’s integrity and border; and further urges the Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office to raise the issue urgently at the UN and to work with Caricom and others to do everything possible to protect Guyana.

14375th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 13

Tony Lloyd

Jonathan Edwards

Martin Docherty-Hughes

Jim Shannon

Mary Kelly Foy

Patrick Grady

That this House celebrates the 75th anniversary of the Universal Declaration of Human Rights; notes that its adoption in 1948 was a watershed moment reflecting the collective determination of world leaders to prevent a repetition of the horrors inflicted during World War Two and to champion the inherent dignity of every individual; recognises the Declaration’s continued importance in empowering and protecting many globally; regrets that millions continue to suffer appalling violations of the rights set out in the Declaration; expresses its solidarity with human rights defenders, particularly those working at great risk to themselves and their communities, and governmental and non-governmental organisations focused on the realisation of human rights; calls on the Government to ensure that the promotion and protection of fundamental human rights is a key plank of its foreign policy, including in its bilateral and multilateral trading and security arrangements, and to do more to support human rights and environmental defenders; and further calls on the Government to bring forward legislative proposals on mandatory supply chain due diligence to protect human rights and the environment, modelled on the Bribery Act 2010.

14440th anniversary of the Scotch Malt Whisky Society

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 11

Deidre Brock

Patrick Grady

David Linden

Jonathan Edwards

Jim Shannon

Stewart Malcolm McDonald

That this House congratulates the Scotch Malt Whisky Society, which has been celebrating its 40th anniversary throughout 2023; notes that the Society was founded in 1983 by a group of friends in Edinburgh, led by Pip Hills, who had previously jointly purchased a cask of single malt Scotch whisky and wanted to share the experience of sampling single cask whisky with the wider public; further notes that the founding of the society led to the opening of dedicated society tasting rooms at the Vaults in Leith, with later venues opening in London, Queen Street in Edinburgh and most recently in Glasgow; recognises the growth in membership across the UK and around the world over the past four decades, and the expansion of the Society’s bottlings into a range of different spirits, while still maintaining an enthusiasm for rare and unique flavours and a sense of adventure and exploration across their output; notes that events and activities to mark the anniversary have included a refurbishment of the original Vaults venue and a record-breaking online whisky tasting event recognised by the Guinness Book of World Records; and wishes all those involved with the Society every success in the years to come.

145Erin Boothman

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 4

Kirsten Oswald

Jim Shannon

Alison Thewliss

Chris Law

That this House congratulates Erin Boothman, a pupil from Williamwood High School, East Renfrewshire, on her recent cycling successes; notes that Erin achieved a fantastic result at the British Youth Track Cycling Championships in 2022, placing 2nd in the under-16 women’s category; further notes that in July 2023 Erin was crowned champion at the National Youth Omnium Championship at the Lee Valley VeloPark; understands that Erin represented Team GB at the European Youth Olympic Festival in Slovenia where she won a silver medal in the time trial despite some very tough competition from other participants; further understands that Erin was awarded a place on the Scottish Cycling Junior Training Programme; notes that Erin is working towards her goal of representing Scotland at the next Commonwealth Games; and wishes Erin all the very best as she continues in her cycling career.

146Monkton Milers' santa dash for Ayrshire Parkinson's Group

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 13

Dr Philippa Whitford

Allan Dorans

Jim Shannon

Patrick Grady

Patricia Gibson

Alan Brown

That this House congratulates the Monkton Milers on organising their highly successful Santa Dash in Troon to raise funds for the Ayrshire Parkinson's Group; notes that Rachel Cox, Chairperson of the Milers, won the JogScotland Jog Leader of the Year in 2022, and acknowledges the valuable contribution such volunteer-led running groups make towards keeping people active and healthy as well as raising funds to support local community projects.

148Retirement of Paul McLaughlin

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 5

Amy Callaghan

Jim Shannon

Patrick Grady

Alison Thewliss

Chris Law

That this house warmly congratulates Mr Paul McLaughlin on his retirement after twenty years of dedicated service as headteacher at St. Ninian’s High School in Kirkintilloch, East Dunbartonshire; recognises Mr Paul McLaughlin’s unwavering commitment to education and his tireless efforts in fostering an environment of learning and growth at St. Ninian’s, demonstrated by the school achieving the prestigious Raising Attainment in Numeracy award in 2017 at the Scottish Education Awards; commends Mr Paul McLaughlin for playing a pivotal role in shaping the lives of countless students and contributing to the overall success and reputation of St. Ninian’s, which was reflected in his achievements in his post as headteacher when he was named Headteacher of the Year at the Scottish Education Awards in 2009, due to his inspirational leadership at St. Ninian’s High School; acknowledges the positive impact Mr Paul McLaughlin has had on the school community, creating a culture of inclusivity and respect, dedicated to nurturing not only academic achievements but also the holistic development of students, instilling in them values that extend beyond the classroom, which is highlighted through St. Ninian’s High School collaboration with Celtic Youth Academy and its intermediate school programme; wishes Mr Paul McLaughlin a well-deserved and fulfilling retirement, filled with joy, relaxation and new adventures; and calls on the House to join in extending a heartfelt thanks to Mr. Paul McLaughlin for his outstanding contributions to education and the wider Kirkintilloch community throughout his tenure as headteacher at St. Ninian’s High School.

14985th anniversary of the return of the British and Irish volunteers in the International Brigades

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 19

Beth Winter

Richard Burgon

Chris Stephens

Jeremy Corbyn

Ian Byrne

Claire Hanna

That this House notes that 7 December 2023 marks the 85th anniversary of the return to Britain of the British and Irish volunteer members of the International Brigades who fought on the side of the Republican Government against fascism of Franco, Mussolini and Hitler in the Spanish Civil War; recalls that 304 volunteers of around 2500 who served from Britain, Ireland and the Commonwealth were met at Victoria Station by Labour Party leader Clement Attlee MP; regrets the 530 deaths the British and Irish volunteers suffered; notes there are now over 100 memorials to volunteers across Britain and that they continue to increase in number; and celebrates the ongoing work of the International Brigade Memorial Trust, including through its work in schools, and through its close relationship with official governmental and civic society sister organisations in Spain, to keep the volunteers memory alive.

151Medical support for children in Gaza

Tabled: 4/12/23 Signatories: 9

Hywel Williams

Liz Saville Roberts

Ben Lake

Jonathan Edwards

Mary Kelly Foy

Caroline Lucas

That this House notes that the United Nations Children’s Fund has warned that Gaza is the most dangerous place in the world to be a child, following the end of the temporary pause in hostilities between Israel and Hamas on 1 December 2023; mourns the fact that at least 6,150 children have been killed in Gaza since 7 October 2023; further notes that hundreds of children are suffering severe injuries such as burns, amputations and complex fractures due to the conflict; applauds the offer of countries such as France to make arrangements to treat wounded and sick children from Gaza in hospitals in France; and calls on the United Kingdom to offer similar support to the children of Gaza.

15340 years of Street Life Newtownards

Tabled: 5/12/23 Signatories: 2

Jim Shannon

Gavin Robinson

That this House celebrates 40 years of men's clothing store Street Life in the town of Newtownards; notes their first store which was initially opened in Bangor and now their transformation to their current store in Newtownards where they have doubled in size, with a brand new suit lounge; highlights the ten members of staff who have unique in store and online shopping experience, and who always go the extra mile in terms of customer service; thanks them for their contribution to the local economy in Newtownards and wishes them all the best for the future.

154Scottish independence and the role of the Scottish Government (No. 2)

Tabled: 5/12/23 Signatories: 4

Angus Brendan MacNeil

Jonathan Edwards

Neale Hanvey

Kenny MacAskill

That this House notes that 30 November is St Andrew's Day, the patron saint of Scotland; further notes that the UK government continues to refuse to grant a Section 30 order to test Scottish opinion, post-Brexit, on independence; notes that in November 2022 the UK Supreme Court ruled against the Scottish Parliament from legislating on a lawful referendum due to its consequences stemming from authority of the ballot box, noting that referendums usually have no immediate legal consequences but that the outcome, as Holyrood is a devolved Parliament of Westminster and not a sovereign parliament of a nation or a people, could force the Parliament at Westminster through the political culture of democracy to alter the constitution of the United Kingdom; and further notes that the Scottish Parliament can call an unscheduled election at any time by three means: a resignation by a First Minister with no new First Minister appointed within 28 days, a two-thirds majority of MSPs voting for an election or a change to Section 3 (1)(A) of the Scotland Act 1998, where a majority of MSPs amend the two-thirds rule to a simple majority for holding the unscheduled Holyrood election, on any manifesto ask, obviously including independence, to gain the authority of the ballot box, and therefore the route to hold such a ballot box event and to put a question on independence to the Scottish people therefore at present lies with the Scottish Government at Holyrood.

155Pay for Royal Fleet Auxiliary Seafarers

Tabled: 5/12/23 Signatories: 10

Ian Mearns

Mrs Emma Lewell-Buck

Ian Lavery

John McDonnell

Andy McDonald

Richard Burgon

That this House pays tribute to the commitment and dedication of the 1,700 civilian seafarers, including trainees, at the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA); is concerned that nearly fifteen years of pay restraint is having a negative effect on recruitment, retention, training and industrial relations in the RFA; notes that inflation and pay restraint have effectively cut the value of RFA seafarers' pay by over thirty per cent since 2009-10; further notes that the number of RFA seafarers has fallen by twenty eight per cent since 2015 which compromises full and safe deployment of the RFA fleet; notes that RFA's thirteen ships support, re-supply and re-fuel the Royal Navy fleet on international deployment, combat drug trafficking and discharge the UK's humanitarian responsibilities following natural disasters; recognises the integral role that RFA crew play in maintaining the security and international interests of the UK and its maritime allies; highlights the RMT union's finding that nearly sixty per cent of RFA seafarers have worked for the RFA for over ten years; and calls on the Government to convene a forum with the recognised trade unions in the RFA to agree a fair pay award and wider reforms to prevent a crewing crisis at the RFA.