Contents
Published: Friday 24 May 2024
Early Day Motions tabled on Thursday 23 May 2024
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
790Protecting Our Democracy from Coercion report
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Mick Whitley
That this House recognises the fundamental importance of the right to non-violent protest to the democratic process; believes that the freedom of citizens to exercise this right has, in recent years, been undermined by oppressive Government legislation, including the Public Order Act 2023; is concerned by the recommendations of Lord Walney’s recent report on Protecting Our Democracy from Coercion, which, if enacted, would further circumscribe the ability of citizens to hold governments and corporations to account; highlights, in particular, the proposed reforms to the Public Order Act 2023 outlined in recommendations 14 and 20 as well as recommendations 29, 30, and 31, which would create unreasonable and oppressive obstacles to citizens wanting to organise or participate in nonviolent protests and direct actions; notes that, cumulatively, Lord Walney’s recommendations would have a chilling effect on our democracy; further notes that Lord Walney is employed by Rud Pederson Group and Purpose Business Coalition, which are reported to count amongst their clients BP and the defence company Leonardo, and which might reasonably be construed as being legitimate targets for non-violent direct action by campaigners against the arms trade and climate protestors; calls on the Government to reject Lord Walney's recommendations; and recommends that he be immediately removed from his position of Independent Advisor on Political Violence and Disruption.
791100 years of D’Jaconelli’s Café
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Patrick Grady
That this House congratulates all those associated with the the iconic D’Jaconelli’s Café in Glasgow as it marks 100 years since its opening by Mario Jaconelli in 1924, and its service to the community in Maryhill and across the north of the city ever since; appreciates that it serves hot food and home-made artisan ice-cream in its traditional 1950s interior; recognises that the character of the café has attracted people from all over Glasgow and around the world; notes that the café has been used as a film and television location for famous productions including Trainspotting starring Ewan McGregor, Carla’s Song with Robert Carlyle, and Tutti Frutti featuring Robbie Coltrane; further congratulates the team for their commitment to maintaining an authentic old-fashioned café experience for all of its visitors and the local community; particularly thanks the team for their service to members of the Glasgow North parliamentary constituency office over the years since May 2015; and wishes all at D’Jaconelli’s the very best for many years to come.
792900th anniversary of the High School of Glasgow
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Carol Monaghan
That this House congratulates the High School of Glasgow on its 900th anniversary; celebrates the 900 Campaign that the school has launched in order to increase its Bursary Fund and promote skills and sustainability; commends the school on its charitable fundraising activities to organisations such as Social Bite, a charity that seeks to end homelessness in Scotland, and Janarupam, an organisation which focuses on the education and development of children and young people in Bangalore, India; praises the school for operating such a wide variety of clubs and societies, totalling over 100, including a Medical Society, multiple excellent choirs and an award-winning pipe band; lauds the role of the teaching staff and management in nurturing the minds of the young people under their tutelage; further celebrates the students for their ongoing academic feats from kindergarten to senior school; and wishes the school continued success as it grows ever-older.
793Disciplinary cases at Benton Park View HMRC Office
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Chris Stephens [R]
That this House regrets the recent dismissal of Joel Hamilton from his job as a civil servant working for HMRC at Benton Park View in the wake of lawful industrial action taken with his union, PCS; notes that, since then, two more PCS union reps have been dismissed, and a further two are now subject to investigation; further notes the strength of feeling amongst the workers relating to these cases; and therefore calls on Government to commission an investigation into the use of disciplinary processes within HMRC, to reinstate all members of staff who are found to have been wrongfully dismissed, and to defend the democratic right to trade union representation within the civil service and beyond.
794Dunterlie Foodshare 5th anniversary
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Kirsten Oswald
That this House congratulates all the volunteers at Dunterlie Foodshare, based at Dunterlie Resource Centre, Barrhead, on their 5th anniversary; applauds the efforts of the volunteers who have given out 12,000 bags of food, worth over £300,000, to people from across the Barrhead area, helping to reduce poverty and improve lives; notes that Dunterlie Foodshare is open every Friday from 11.30am to 12.30pm and operates on a first-come-first-served basis; recognises that Dunterlie Foodshare was founded by local community activist Rena McGuire; understands that Dunterlie Foodshare works with the Corra Foundation, Barrhead Housing, FareShare Glasgow and West of Scotland, East Renfrewshire Council, East Renfrewshire Culture and Leisure Trust, East Renfrewshire Citizens Advice Bureau, Social Security Scotland and Money Advice Scotland to help support people in need; and wishes Rena and of the volunteers at Dunterlie Foodshare all the very best for the future.
795Kingdom of Fife highland dancing team success
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Peter Grant
That this House congratulates Alexa Bianconcini from Glenrothes, Lucy Funnell from Coaltown of Balgonie, Murron Putka from Leven, Louise Barton from Cairneyhill, Kirsten Stewart from Leven and Serena Bianconcini from Glenrothes on their fantastic success at the Highland Dancing Scottish Area finals which were recently held in Oban; highlights that the competitors were individually selected during championships and events held in 2023 and the group competed against 17 teams from areas throughout Scotland; notes that this event is the only event in the Highland Dancing calendar that allows competitors to dance as a troop rather than solo in a solo sport; commends the troop on their wonderful win which marks the first time since the competition began 31 years ago that Fife has picked up the top spot despite being a regular qualifier; and wishes the group and everyone at the Kingdom of Fife Highland Dance Festivals all the best for the future.
796Return of Tally’s Blood to the stage
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Patrick Grady
That this House recognises the return to the stage of the modern Scottish classic Tally’s Blood, written by Scots-Italian playwright Ann Marie Di Mambro; welcomes that, in late 2023, audiences across Scotland got to enjoy the first full production of the play in 20 years, directed by Ken Alexander who also directed the 2023 production; understands that the play takes places between the 1930s and 1950s, and follows the lives and loves the Pedreschis, an Italian immigrant family who own a traditional café in Glasgow, in the run up to and aftermath of the Second World War; further recognises that the story is based on aspects of the playwright’s own Scottish-Italian heritage; appreciates that Tally’s Blood’s universal themes of love, family, war, identity and prejudice have resonated with audiences for decades, and are as relevant today as they were when the play was first performed at the Traverse Theatre in Edinburgh in 1990; further notes that that the play, which is a set text for the National 5 English curriculum in Scotland, helped raise awareness of the Arandora Star tragedy of 2 July 2040 when a passenger ship was torpedoed by a German U-boat while transporting Italian and German detainees to Canada, resulting in the loss of over 800 lives; is pleased that new audiences have had a chance to enjoy the play’s return to the stage; and is confident that the heartwarming story of Rosinella, Massimo, Lucia and Hughie will continue to delight audiences for years to come.
797Celebrating the achievements of Beavers Community Primary School
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Seema Malhotra
That this House congratulates the students and staff of Beavers Community Primary School on the development and performance of their own original musical Trapped in Terminal Three! set in Heathrow Airport; recognises the incredible achievements of the Year 4s, 5s and 6s who have spent six months rehearsing as part of the school’s first musical theatre club; notes the hard work and creativity of teacher James Wood and other staff in writing the musical; further congratulates the club on their recent performance at Heathrow Airport’s Terminal Three; acknowledges the support of Heathrow Airport and Virgin Atlantic in giving the club the opportunity to perform at the airport; and further recognises the importance of music and drama education in building confidence and skills such as communication, critical thinking, problem-solving and teamwork.
798Gibson's Engineering St Rollox Train Depot in Springburn
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Anne McLaughlin
That this House congratulates Gibson's Engineering, a father and son duo company, on reopening the famous St Rollox depot, known as The Caley; notes that the historic St Rollox Locomotive Works, established in 1856 by the Caledonian Railway, was the central hub of Scotland's locomotive industry, operating for 163 years until its closure in 2019; recognises the hard work and determination all involved in the revitalisation of this historic landmark as a train engineering facility; and shares their ambition to see significantly larger-scale employment of engineers, coachbuilders, project managers and apprentices in the north of Glasgow.
799165th anniversary of Jewish Care Scotland
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Kirsten Oswald
That this House congratulates Jewish Care Scotland as they celebrate their 165th anniversary; notes that Jewish Care Scotland dates back to 1858, when it was mentioned in the earliest written record of the Glasgow Hebrew Philanthropic society, with the organisation requesting the use of a room at a Glasgow synagogue to dispense charity to Glasgow’s Jewish population; understands that Jewish Care Scotland is Scotland’s only exclusively Jewish care charity and thus uniquely able to provide culturally sensitive services including a Kosher foodbank, detailed care, a well-being hub and social support visits; further notes that the organisation is marking 165 years of existence with 165-for-165, asking 165 supporters to raise £165 throughout the year, and that this effort is accompanied by a booklet containing 65 unique fundraising ideas; applauds the efforts of everyone involved with Jewish Care Scotland and notes the significant input of over 22,000 hours from dedicated volunteers; appreciates Jewish Care Scotland’s vision is to create a strong community with Jewish values at its heart, empowering individuals to take control of their own lives, providing excellent responsive person centred advice and support, and maximising opportunities for connection; and wishes everyone involved with Jewish Care Scotland all the very best for the future.
800The West Highland Way
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Amy Callaghan
That this house commends the many people who will complete the West Highland Way walk this summer; recognises the opportunity to witness some of Scotland’s most incredible landscapes via this iconic route; notes the abundance of local businesses available at the start of the route in Milngavie for walkers to rest, eat and stock up ahead of their trip; and wishes all walkers a safe trip with beautiful weather.
801Rossvale FC Women
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Amy Callaghan
That this house congratulates Rossvale on winning the Scottish Women’s Football Championship and League One Cup; notes the effort of all players, coaches and staff in this fantastic win, as well as throughout their season and training; celebrates Megan Whiteford for finishing as joint top scorer, with 20 goals in 19 games; and recognises the incredible support that the team has from fans and family, and the influence that support has had on their victories.
802Skin cancer awareness month
Tabled: 23/05/24 Signatories: 1
Amy Callaghan
That this house recognises the importance of skin cancer awareness month in educating the public on the harms of the sun; recognises that sunscreen is an essential health item, and not a luxury to be used just on holidays; notes that almost 90% of melanomas are preventable, so it is vital the public are educated and empowered to protect themselves; further notes that just one blistering sunburn in childhood or adolescence more than doubles your chances of developing melanoma in later life, demonstrating the importance of preventing each one of these burns; and acknowledges that cost is often a barrier to accessing sunscreen, and so a reduction in cost through removing the VAT would improve access to sunscreen, a cancer preventing essential healthcare item.
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.
740Selina Rashid, Say It with Flowers Award
Tabled: 9/05/24 Signatories: 7
Marion Fellows
Chris Law
Allan Dorans
Jim Shannon
Anne McLaughlin
Chris Stephens
Martyn Day
That this House recognises the achievements and hard work of Selina Rashid who was the recent recipient of Wishaw Press’s Say It with Flowers Award that celebrates those who go above and beyond to help others; congratulates her, along with Abdul and Khalida Rashid, as well as Agnes Ferguson, for running the Post Office and the minimarket convenience store in New Stevenson for over 10 years; further recognises her selfless and generous character that led to being nominated and the recipient of the award; acknowledges her recent going public against the Post Office Network on mystery Horizon shortfalls yet still found time to take care and look after others and the community; and wishes her luck with her new business as a digital creator.
742Funding to restore the historic Mavisbank building
Tabled: 13/05/24 Signatories: 8
Owen Thompson
Marion Fellows
Jim Shannon
Anne McLaughlin
Chris Stephens
Allan Dorans
Martyn Day
This this House welcomes the £5.3 million from the National Heritage Memorial Fund to restore the historic building of Mavisbank in Loanhead, Midlothian; congratulates the campaigners who have strived for more than 50 years to save this 18th century building, the Landmark Trust has worked with Midlothian Council, Historic Environment Scotland, the Mavisbank bank Trust and other to identify a viable solution for this property; and notes Mavisbank was built in 1723, in a pioneering neo-Classical style which William Adam’s son Robert Adam and others would develop for Edinburgh’s New Town a generation later, set in 70 acres with a walled garden, canal and Palladian influences, it would become a blueprint for countless other country villas across the country, in the 19th century Mavisbank became a ground-breaking hospital where reforming Doctor John Batty Tuke developed compassionate approaches to mental illness, including through exercise and gardening, Mavisbank House is a building of outstanding importance to Scottish and UK national heritage and this funding will enable the Landmark Trust to acquire Mavisbank House and safeguard the historic fabric of the Category A building, laying the foundations for a sustainable and brighter future.
74419th Joint Israeli-Palestinian Memorial Day ceremony
Tabled: 13/05/24 Signatories: 16
Wera Hobhouse
Jonathan Edwards
Christine Jardine
Nadia Whittome
Sir Peter Bottomley
Stephen Farry
Martyn Day
That this House joins in commemorating the 19th annual Joint Israeli-Palestinian Memorial Day ceremony, held on Yom HaZikaron—Memorial Day—in Israel, beginning on the evening of 12 May 2024; pays tribute to all Israelis and Palestinians who grieve together and stand united in their demand for an end to bloodshed between both peoples; recognises that the lives of everyone connected to Israel and Palestine will never be the same as a result of the devastating events of 7 October 2023 in Israel and what has followed afterwards in Gaza; supports the work of Combatants for Peace and the Parents Circle-Families Forum in bringing Israelis and Palestinians together; believes that their mission of transforming despair into hope and building compassion around ideals of shared humanity, justice and equality provides a pathway to resolving the Israeli-Palestinian conflict; further supports all grassroots efforts to build a shared future and a political solution that brings freedom, justice and safety for all; agrees that occupation, oppression, and conflict are not inevitable; and calls on the Government to fully support, through all relevant financial and political means, all such joint Israeli-Palestinian initiatives that promote peace, justice and a shared future for Israelis and Palestinians.
746Arms sales to Israel
Tabled: 13/05/24 Signatories: 5
George Galloway
Jonathan Edwards
Chris Stephens
Dr Philippa Whitford
Martyn Day
That this House notes clearly established international law which prohibits intentionally or recklessly attacking civilians and civilian infrastructure; further notes that British arms sold to Israel are potentially being used to commit such serious violations of international law; condemns the killing of tens of thousands of people by Israel, and the forced displacement, starvation and deprivation upon more than 2 million people; therefore calls for an immediate suspension of arms licences and arms exports to the government of Israel; and further calls for an immediate and permanent ceasefire.
750St Leonard’s Catholic School, City of Durham (No. 2)
Tabled: 13/05/24 Signatories: 6
Mary Kelly Foy
George Galloway
Jim Shannon
Kate Osborne
Chris Stephens
Ian Byrne
That this House notes with great concern that the Department for Education has still not offered mitigating circumstances for the pupils of St Leonard’s Catholic School in City of Durham constituency despite the disruption to their education caused by reinforced autoclaved aerated concrete; notes that a parliamentary petition, signed by thousands of concerned constituents, has called on the Department for Education to implement mitigating circumstances for St Leonard’s pupils; condemns the Department’s complacency and indifference to the St Leonard’s community; and pays tribute to the determination and resilience of parents, pupils and teachers of St Leonard’s in light of this clear injustice.
752Llanymddyfri Rugby Club – Clwb Rygbi Llanymddyfri
Tabled: 13/05/24 Signatories: 5
Jonathan Edwards
Jim Shannon
George Galloway
Chris Stephens
Martyn Day
That this House congratulates Clwb Rygbi Llanymddyfri, Llandovery RFC, on becoming the undisputed best rugby team in Wales after clinching the Indigo Welsh Premiership play-off final following a tightly-contested 14-7 victory against Newport; pays tribute to the players, coaches and Committee of the Club for completing a Triple Crown of triumphs this season, a feat only accomplished by Pontypridd in the 20-year history of the Welsh Premiership's current iteration; applauds the dedication of the supporters throughout the season; with the Drovers edging the league title by a single point in the season proper, winning the Premiership Cup and the Premiership Final; and wishes the Club well as they embark on a new adventure in the Elite Domestic Competition next season.
757Ross Cowie, Point of Light Award
Tabled: 14/05/24 Signatories: 10
Ian Blackford
Anne McLaughlin
Marion Fellows
Chris Stephens
Allan Dorans
Deidre Brock
Martyn Day
That this House recognises the achievements and hard work of Ross Cowie who is a recipient of the Point of Light Reward for his work with the Lucky2BHere charity that he founded on the Isle of Skye in 2009; congratulates him and all of the others involved in Lucky2BHere for working so hard to install publicly accessible defibrillators across Scotland; further recognises his continuing work with the app providers GoodSAM and Crowdsav which help members of the public locate the nearest defibrillator in case of emergency; acknowledges his additional work on a database which allows him to check the status of each defibrillator across Scotland, ensuring that batteries and pads are always up to date; further acknowledges and recognises the intensive training that Lucky2BHere has provided to over 50,000 people and in schools across Scotland in how to use these defibrillators; and wishes him every success in the future.
758Take Another Look campaign
Tabled: 14/05/24 Signatories: 16
Chris Law
Alison Thewliss
Jonathan Edwards
Jon Trickett
Anne McLaughlin
Chris Stephens
Martyn Day
That this House acknowledges the inherent vulnerability of motorcyclists on UK roads and the tragedy that road traffic collisions bring to motorcycle riders’ loved ones; extends condolences to Tracey Marsh, Maureen Rutherford and Jacqueline Dickson, who all tragically lost their husbands in road traffic collisions; supports the launch of their Take Another Look campaign, which aims to educate motorists on their role and responsibility towards vulnerable road users; notes the importance of increasing motorists’ awareness of motorcycles and reducing accidents; and agrees that all drivers should take another look to save lives.
759The Kew Gardener
Tabled: 14/05/24 Signatories: 4
Sarah Olney
Chris Stephens
Sarah Dyke
John McDonnell
That this House recognises the Kew Gardener’s vital role in Kew’s local economy; thanks its owner for his years of service to the community; expresses great concern at the 62.5% increase in the rent charged on the property; notes that dramatic increases in rent have been a contributing factor behind the closure of thousands of businesses across the UK; urges the owners of the property, who claim to pride themselves on being responsible investors, to reconsider their decision to close the premises; and asks that they work constructively with the Kew Gardener to ensure it’s doors can remain open.
760Saltire Patisserie, Midlothian and Scottish Baker of the Year Awards
Tabled: 15/05/24 Signatories: 8
Owen Thompson
Chris Stephens
Allan Dorans
Deidre Brock
Jim Shannon
Chris Law
Martyn Day
That this House congratulates Saltire Patisserie Ltd bakery in Loanhead, Midlothian, for their recent successes at the prestigious Scottish Baker of the Year Awards; recognises their Best in Scotland Gold Award for their steak pie, Best in Region Gold Award for their steak pie and Best in Region Gold Award for their corn bread; acknowledges that this is an incredible accomplishment and a testament to the dedication, creativity and hard work put into the bakery; applauds the bakery’s commitment to greatness, combined with an innovative approach and attention to detail; further acknowledges that this award is a well-deserved recognition of the Saltire Patisserie Ltd team’s efforts and the quality of products and experiences they provide to customers; and wishes Saltire Patisserie Ltd continued success and acclaim in the future.
761Penicuik Athletic youth football club and Colin Campbell Sports Cup
Tabled: 15/05/24 Signatories: 8
Owen Thompson
Chris Stephens
Allan Dorans
Deidre Brock
Jim Shannon
Chris Law
Martyn Day
That this House congratulates the Penicuik Athletic YFC under-17s team for their recent success at the Colin Campbell Sports Cup; acknowledges their award for first place; recognises that this is a wonderful achievement and a testament to the dedication and hard work that the team put into their training and football games; applauds their sportsmanship during the game; further acknowledges that this award is a well-deserved recognition of the players' and coaches' outstanding teamwork and efforts; and wishes Penicuik Athletic YFC under-17s continued success and acclaim in the future.
762Imperial War Museums and union derecognition
Tabled: 15/05/24 Signatories: 29
Chris Stephens
John McDonnell
Grahame Morris
Ian Lavery
Richard Burgon
Ian Byrne
Martyn DayAlison Thewliss
That this House is alarmed by reports that Imperial War Museums plans to derecognise the Public and Commercial Services union and the First Division Association for the purposes of collective representation and bargaining; is concerned that derecognising these trade unions would undermine the collective bargaining power of staff, leaving them vulnerable to arbitrary decisions by management, with limited recourse for addressing grievances or negotiating fair terms of employment; warns that derecognising any union undermines the principles of democracy and representation in the workplace, and could have significant negative effects on equality by exacerbating wage disparities, reducing job security and access to benefits, worsening working conditions, diminishing workers’ voice and representation, limiting training and advancement opportunities, and weakening legal protections for workers; and calls on the Government to intervene to help resolve this dispute by ensuring that these unions remain recognised by Imperial War Museums.
763Support for Bristow staff
Tabled: 15/05/24 Signatories: 7
Angus Brendan MacNeil
Chris Stephens
Jonathan Edwards
Mr Alistair Carmichael
Sir Edward Leigh
Dr Philippa Whitford
Martyn Day
That this House commends the work of Bristow staff who operate helicopters for search and rescue services in the Outer Hebrides across Scotland and the UK and who also operate offshore oil and gas flights; supports the 360 staff including pilots, co-pilots, winchmen operators and winchmen paramedics in their decision to vote to strike due to the derisory pay offer and the attack on their terms and conditions; condemns the pay offer by Bristow which in real terms means those brave individuals who take people on emergency medical evacuations or go out to ships in storms, as well as providing transport for workers on North Sea Oil rigs have seen a 25% decrease in their pay; thanks BALPA the union for supporting staff through this challenging time; and further thanks the courageous and highly motivated staff for the work they do in the Outer Hebrides and elsewhere in these islands.
765Lauren Price, World Champion title
Tabled: 16/05/24 Signatories: 7
Liz Saville Roberts
Ben Lake
Hywel Williams
Jonathan Edwards
Jim Shannon
Chris Law
Martyn Day
That this House commends Lauren Price for becoming Wales’ first female World Champion boxer and 14th world title holder; notes that she now holds the World Boxing Association, International Boxing Organization and Ring Magazine welterteight world titles after her victory over Jessica McCaskill in Cardiff on Saturday 11 May; further notes that Lauren was competing in only her seventh professional fight, after previously winning gold in the women's middleweight final at the 2020 Tokyo Olympics; highlights that she is already a world champion in kickboxing, has won 52 caps for the Welsh National Football Team, and has previously competed in taekwondo; and wishes Lauren the very best with her career going forwards.
767ILGA-Europe Rainbow Map
Tabled: 17/05/24 Signatories: 14
Angela Crawley
Deidre Brock
Richard Thomson
Allan Dorans
Ben Lake
Liz Saville Roberts
Martyn Day
That this House regrets that the UK has received its lowest-ever rank on the ILGA-Europe’s Rainbow Map; recognises the 2024 Rainbow Map is the organisation's 13th annual review of the human rights situation of lesbian, gay, bisexual, trans and intersex people in 49 countries in Europe and Central Asia; further regrets the UK’s 51% rating, noting the decline from last year’s rating of 53.9%; acknowledges this ranking is a result of the UK Government's decision to block the Scottish Parliament's Gender Recognition Reform (Scotland) Bill, delays to the banning of conversion practices and the UK Government’s treatment of LGBTI migrants, including fears that the Illegal Migration Act may be used to expel LGBTQ+ asylum seekers to their home or a third country; condemns this government’s record of failing to protect and support LGBTQ+ communities; and calls for an urgent reflection on the direction this Government is taking on human rights.
768100th anniversary of Busby Lawn Tennis Club
Tabled: 20/05/24 Signatories: 6
Kirsten Oswald
Jim Shannon
Dr Philippa Whitford
Martyn Day
Alison Thewliss
Chris Law
That this House congratulates Busby Lawn Tennis Club on reaching its centenary year, marking 100 years of service to the community; notes that the club, located at 5 Carmunnock Road, Busby, East Renfrewshire, was founded in 1925 and has three floodlit artificial grass courts for players to make use of; recognises that the club has teams playing in all West of Scotland leagues, namely, men, women, junior, and senior competitions; further notes the club also hosts an annual club championship with a wide range of senior and junior categories; appreciates the club hosted a centenary gala day on 21 April 2024 to mark this historic occasion; applauds the significant role that the club plays in promoting tennis and healthy living in the local community; and wishes everyone at the Busby Lawn Tennis Club all the very best for the future.
769Phoenix Flames and the Dance World Championship 2024
Tabled: 20/05/24 Signatories: 7
Kirsten Oswald
Jim Shannon
Marion Fellows
Richard Thomson
Martyn Day
Alison Thewliss
Chris Law
That this House congratulates Phoenix Flames, a group of cheeleaders from Eaglesham, East Renfrewshire, on their Junior Heatwave and Senior Elite teams ranking 8th and 10th respectively at the Dance World Competition; recognises the Dance World Competition was held in Florida on April 26 to 29 with hundreds of teams from 25 nations around the world competing; understands that many of Phoenix Flames’ dancers started dancing at the age of just two years old with Dance Craze Dance Academy; appreciates the positive impact that dancing can have on a participant’s physical and mental well-being; applauds all of the cheerleaders at Phoenix Flames on their phenomenal performances at the Dance World Championship; appreciates the hard work and commitment of the coaches involved in preparing the cheerleaders for the competition; and wishes everyone at Phoenix Flames all the very best of luck for future competitions.
771Hamilton Academical and the Scottish Championship
Tabled: 20/05/24 Signatories: 8
Angela Crawley
Jim Shannon
Marion Fellows
George Galloway
Anne McLaughlin
Richard Thomson
Martyn DayChris Law
That this House congratulates Hamilton Academical Football Club following their promotion to the Scottish Championship for the 2024-25 season; recognises that the club achieved promotion via the play-offs in which they defeated Alloa Athletic 5-4 on aggregate in the semi-finals and Inverness Caledonian Thistle 5-3 on aggregate in the final after finishing second in League One; commends Kevin O'Hara for creating the first goal and scoring a brace in the final; further commends his teammates, manager John Rankin and the coaching staff for their collective efforts and determination to succeed; and wishes Accies the best of luck for the new season.
772Lanark United, West of Scotland Football League Third Division champions
Tabled: 20/05/24 Signatories: 8
Angela Crawley
Jim Shannon
Anne McLaughlin
Drew Hendry
Richard Thomson
Martyn Day
Alison ThewlissChris Law
That this House congratulates Lanark United Football Club on winning the 2023-24 West of Scotland Football League Third Division title; recognises that Lanark United, affectionately known as the Yowes, secured their championship with two games to play after defeating Greenock 8-0 at Moor Park; notes that they ended the season on 67 points, 11 clear of runners-up Lesmahagow; commends top scorer Kieran Brannan for helping his team towards the title with 14 league goals; further commends manager Daryl Meikle and all his players and staff for their collective efforts and determination to succeed; and wishes the club well for the forthcoming season.
773Royal Fleet Auxiliary pay settlement
Tabled: 20/05/24 Signatories: 10
Grahame Morris
Jonathan Edwards
Charlotte Nichols
Kim Johnson
Mick Whitley
Jim Shannon
John McDonnell
That this House notes the imposition of a below inflation pay settlement for merchant seafarers in the Royal Fleet Auxiliary (RFA) in 2023-24; expresses concern that RFA seafarers’ pay has fallen thirty-six per cent behind inflation, alongside cuts to pensions, wider employment conditions and crewing levels since 2009-10; highlights the findings of the RFA’s own private consultants that the RFA pays lower than the market average in the ferries, deep sea, cruise and workboat sectors; notes that RFA seafarers work four-month tours at sea but are not entitled to leave parity like the majority of the shipping sector, and is concerned by RFA seafarers’ work-life balance; further notes that RFA crew carry out 67% of Royal Navy (RN) tasking on top of their own work; understands that RFA seafarers are certified to Maritime and Coastguard Agency standards, which provides the RN with greater operational flexibility; believes the RFA does not have enough civilian seafarers should the RN’s operational needs require full deployment of the RFA fleet; supports the trade union rights of civilian merchant seafarers in the RFA organised by the RMT and Nautilus who have voted overwhelmingly to take industrial action in a pay dispute with the RFA; and calls on the Government to intervene to assist in settling the RFA pay dispute and to tackle seafarer recruitment and retention problems in the RFA and in the RN.
776Golden Jubilee of St Filan’s Primary School
Tabled: 21/05/24 Signatories: 9
Stewart Malcolm McDonald
Brendan O'Hara
Anne McLaughlin
Drew Hendry
Dave Doogan
Dr Philippa Whitford
Martyn DayChris Law
That this House celebrates the golden jubilee of St Filan’s Primary School in Glasgow South; notes the significant milestone of 50 years of dedicated service to the community, providing outstanding education and fostering the development of countless young minds; acknowledges the hard work and commitment of the teachers, staff, and governors, both past and present, whose efforts have shaped the school’s success and positive impact on its pupils; recognises the support and involvement of parents, carers, and the wider community in contributing to the school’s achievements and fostering a nurturing environment for learning; commends the school's continuous adaptation and resilience in the face of educational and societal changes, ensuring that it remains a pillar of excellence in education; and wishes St Filan’s Primary School continued success and prosperity for the next 50 years and beyond, as it continues to inspire and educate future generations in Glasgow South constituency.
777Children's Hospice Week
Tabled: 21/05/24 Signatories: 10
Jim Shannon
George Galloway
Jonathan Edwards
Paul Girvan
Dr Philippa Whitford
Martin Docherty-Hughes
Alison ThewlissJohn McDonnell
That this House notes Children's Hospice Week 2024, celebrated from 15 to 21 May 2024 in partnership with Together for Short Lives; highlights that Children's Hospice Week is the only week in the year dedicated to raising awareness and funds for children's hospice and palliative care services across the UK, and the seriously ill children and young people they support; further notes that this years Hospice Week is Caring for the Child, Supporting the Family. and that right now, families with seriously ill children are pushed to their limits as caring for a child with serious health needs can be exhausting and often the challenges families faces are little understood; recognises the work that numerous charities do and that people can take steps to support by getting involved in campaigns; thanks all parents, relatives and carers for the work they do; and calls for support for them through this campaign.
778250th anniversary of Edengrove Presbyterian Church
Tabled: 21/05/24 Signatories: 2
Jim Shannon
Martyn Day
That this House notes the 250th Anniversary of Edengrove Presbyterian Church in Ballynahinch in the constituency of Strangford; expresses gratitude for the role this Church plays in the local community and recognises the positive impact of the Church in teaching the words of Christ and practically demonstrating the love of God; highlights that as part of their 250th anniversary a concert took place, with music provided by Festival Brass; and sends best wishes to the Church on their celebrations and their future within the local community.
780Thomas Haslam and the Chief Scout’s Commendation for Meritorious Conduct
Tabled: 21/05/24 Signatories: 9
Drew Hendry
Anne McLaughlin
Dave Doogan
Douglas Chapman
Dr Philippa Whitford
Stewart Malcolm McDonald
Martyn DayChris Law
That this House congratulates Thomas Haslam, a Cub Young Leader in Inverness, on being awarded the Chief Scout’s Commendation for Meritorious Conduct in recognition of his assistance at the scene of a serious road traffic collision at age 16; recognises that Thomas performed life-preserving first aid, learned through Scouting, to a critically injured patient and continued to help when the Scottish Ambulance Service arrived; acknowledges the praise from Stuart Abel, an Advanced Practitioner in Critical Care and Team Lead for the Scottish Ambulance Service Prehospital Immediate Care & Trauma Team in Inverness, who commended Thomas’s quick thinking and intervention as part of the clinical team at the scene; and wishes Thomas every success in his future career.
781Manchester Arena terror attacks
Tabled: 21/05/24 Signatories: 3
George Galloway
Kenny MacAskill
Ben Lake
That this House notes the melancholy anniversary of the terrorist attack at Manchester Arena during the Ariana Grande concert which killed twenty-two and injured many others on this day seven years ago; whilst noting the long public inquiry and its many conclusions, believes that there are many questions still unanswered, foremost amongst which are the reasons why the adherents of the Libyan Islamic Fighting Group were allowed, indeed encouraged, to coalesce in the City of Manchester and kept in a semi-detached relationship by successive British governments as intelligence assets waiting to be used, as they subsequently were, to assist the overthrow of the then Libyan government; and further believes that this Frankenstein monster came back to slaughter the innocents in the Manchester Arena and no politician has been held to account for what turned out to be a disastrous policy all round.
782Essentials guarantee and minimum income guarantee
Tabled: 22/05/24 Signatories: 5
Angela Crawley
Martyn Day
Alison Thewliss
Jonathan Edwards
Chris Law
That this House supports calls to implement an essentials guarantee into Universal Credit to ensure no one goes without life’s essentials; commends the Trussell Trust and the Joseph Rowntree Foundation on their Essentials Guarantee campaign; congratulates these organisations on securing more than 150,000 petition signatures in support of the campaign; recognises an essentials guarantee would create a standard allowance for Universal Credit which always covers the cost of essentials including food, fuel, essential travel, communications, and sundries; regrets the existing Universal Credit standard allowance is exacerbating experiences of poverty; believes that while everyone’s needs are different, an essentials guarantee would provide baseline support to the benefit of all claimants; acknowledges that an essentials guarantee would guarantee a baseline income which, at a minimum, guarantees affordability for the cost of essentials; notes that relative needs would be further supported on top of the standard allowance for Universal Credit; recognises that benefit levels in the UK are insufficient in supporting families; further commends the efforts of the Scottish Government in exploring the possibility of a minimum income guarantee for all; and further calls on the Government to reform the UK welfare system to adequately support those who are unemployed or in low paid work.
783The Wee Play Place success at the Scottish Hospitality Awards 2024
Tabled: 22/05/24 Signatories: 2
Martin Docherty-Hughes
Chris Law
That this House congratulates The Wee Play Place in Alexandria, West Dunbartonshire, on being awarded the Children’s Play Centre of the Year at the Scottish Hospitality Awards 2024; notes that the venue was highly commended in the Best Entertaining Team category; believes that this recognition is well deserved for the hard working, dedicated team at The Wee Play Place who have a strong connection with the local community and a loyal customer base; and wishes them continued success for the year ahead.
784250th anniversary of Irvine Old Parish Church
Tabled: 22/05/24 Signatories: 4
Dr Philippa Whitford
Martyn Day
Alison Thewliss
Chris Law
That this House congratulates Irvine Old Parish Church on their 250th anniversary, which will be celebrated on Sunday 23 June 2024 at a special thanksgiving service; notes that work on the church commenced in 1773 and, when it was completed in 1778, it was one of the largest churches in Ayrshire and that, with the earliest religious building having been recorded in the 9th century, the site has a history as old as that of Irvine itself; and celebrates with the congregation that the church and parish continue to play an integral part in the life of the town for regular worship, as well as marking significant local and national events and anniversaries, including Remembrance Sunday, Veterans Day and the Kirking of elected council representatives and the leaders of local civic bodies.
785Midlothian Council Jo Cox civility pledge
Tabled: 22/05/24 Signatories: 4
Owen Thompson
Martyn Day
Alison Thewliss
Chris Law
That this House acknowledges the positive action taken by Midlothian Council Leader Kelly Parry, Provost Debbi McCall and Chief Executive Dr Grace Vickers in endorsing the Jo Cox Civility campaign and signing the pledge on behalf of all Midlothian councillors to run a respectful election campaign; recognises that the pledge actioned by the Jo Cox Foundation was launched in memory of Labour MP Jo Cox who was sadly murdered outside her constituency surgery in Birstall in 2016 because of her political beliefs a week before the EU referendum; further recognises that this campaign is to tackle all forms of abuse and intimidation against elected representatives and to highlight that everyone has the right to express their views without fear of harassment or threat; notes that in 2022, Local Government Association research found that seven out of 10 councillors had experienced abuse in the previous year; and further notes that abuse can make elected representatives feel they need to step down and put potential future candidates off standing altogether, which fully demonstrates the importance of signing the pledge which commits parties and candidates to set a respectful tone when campaigning, promote constructive debate and defend the dignity of others.
786Marr College success at Scottish Power's Schools Warrior Rugby Championship
Tabled: 22/05/24 Signatories: 4
Dr Philippa Whitford
Martyn Day
Alison Thewliss
Chris Law
That this House congratulates Marr College of Troon on winning the Scottish Schools Warrior Rugby Championship, sponsored by Scottish Power Energy Networks, after the S1 Boys, S2 Boys and Under 14 Girls squads won two of their three games in the championship matches at Scotstoun in Glasgow, where they took on Wallace High School and Strathaven Academy in the semi-finals, before facing Belmont Academy of Prestwick in the final; celebrates the strong performances by all squads and commends the players from Glasgow Warriors for taking part in a question and answer session with the young players after the matches; recognises the work of the coaching team led by by head coaches Alex Moncrieff for the S1 Boys, Nnamdi Obi for the S2 Boys and Harry Murray for the Under-14 Girls, as well as the support provided by Marr Rugby Club which offers 24 different teams for all ages; and celebrates the commitment of the young players of all the Marr College Teams who play in friendly and competitive fixtures against schools and clubs throughout Scotland.
7873rd Bo’ness Scout Group
Tabled: 22/05/24 Signatories: 3
Martyn Day
Alison Thewliss
Chris Law
That this House congratulates the 3rd Bo’ness Scout Group on becoming the first Scout Group in the UK to achieve net zero status; notes the installation of solar panels on its scout hall, which ensures sustainable energy and operational needs for the future; further notes the role of UCS Renewables for its partnership, sponsorship, and installation of the solar panels; commends the Scout Group’s initiative to incorporate environmental education into its program, teaching scouts about their role in the journey to net zero; welcomes efforts by organisations like the Scout Group in providing valuable extracurricular education, skills, and activities for children and young people; praises the positive role that Scout Groups across the UK play in communities; and extends best wishes to the Scout Group’s volunteers and young people in all future endeavours.
788Farewell to Jurgen Klopp
Tabled: 22/05/24 Signatories: 8
Kim Johnson
Dan Carden
Ian Byrne
Paula Barker
Alison Thewliss
Jonathan Edwards
Kirsten OswaldJohn McDonnell
That this House congratulates Jurgen Norbert Klopp on his outstanding nine years as Manager of Liverpool FC; celebrates his achievements in winning the UEFA Champions League in 2018-19, UEFA Super Cup in 2019, FIFA Club World Cup in 2019-2020, English Premier League in 2019-2020, in the Club's first Premier League win for 30 years, FA Cup in 2021-22, Premier League Cup in 2021-22, Community Shield in 2022-23 and the Carabao League Cup in 2023-24; notes his commitment not just to the club, his players and the fans, but to the whole city of Liverpool, acknowledged by his winning the PFA and Liverpool Disabled Supporters Association awards in 2024 for his support for a wide array of community projects and for the Hillsborough families; and promises that he will never walk alone again and wishes this honorary Scouser every success in his next venture.