August 2019

Public ready for period of stability

It has been a busy few weeks since my appointment as Scottish Secretary and it has been good getting to know the Scotland Office team in Edinburgh and London with their diverse skills and expertise.

This is a momentous time for our country and I can assure constituents that, whilst Parliament may be in recess, huge efforts are going on daily to prepare for every potential scenario as the Brexit deadline approaches.

As I've stressed, my focus remains firmly on the Dumfries and Galloway constituency and, in response to what was a clear UK-wide referendum result, the Government is working hard to achieve a Brexit which is good for the country and should also bring new opportunities to our region.

What comes across from most constituents I meet is that they are fed up with the uncertainty of recent times and desperately seek stability in a future free from further referendums.

I will do my utmost in the challenging coming days to make that aspiration a reality.

 

Taking stock at Stranraer Show

I greatly enjoyed my visit to Stranraer Show when I had the opportunity to talk to many local members of the farming community and view some fine pedigree livestock.

There was naturally much discussion about Brexit, the possibility of no deal and the implications for agriculture.

I explained the Government's preference is clearly for an agreement but, if there was not, we have prudently made preparations for that outcome and support will be provided in sectors such as red meat until the market settles and a deal is in place.

The Government has already announced it will keep the current Common Agricultural Policy (CAP) arrangements until 2022. 

However, in the long term, getting away from the CAP should be a great opportunity and give farmers more flexibility.

We have a magnificent farming community with wonderful produce and the best beef in the world which, I'm sure, will continue to be in demand at home and overseas.

 

A75 investment vital

There is no doubt that the importance of the A75 route to the Northern Ireland ferry ports at Cairnryan is becoming increasingly important.

Unfortunately the condition of the road surface in recent months, particularly in the west of the constituency, has caused genuine safety concerns amongst constituents.

Whilst potholes are sadly a fact of life on minor roads, that should certainly not be the case on the Scottish Government's national trunk routes network.

I will continue to lobby for more maintenance and major improvement schemes on this strategically vital route.

 

Doing a great job

The wet weather of late has taken its toll on some of our summer events, including village galas.

But most have proved a great success as have the larger festivities, shows and special events in our towns.

I'm always impressed by the work of the organisers who give of their time freely, promote local community spirit and help attract visitors to our part of the world.

A big 'well done' to them all!

 

Help for constituents 

I take every opportunity to be out and about in the constituency but I'm also pleased to offer help and advice at my regular surgeries.

If you would like to make an appointment to meet me to discuss an issue please contact my constituency team on 01387-216109.