Lauren highlights global concerns
Global issues such as climate change and the plight of far away Third World countries are rightfully important topics within our own shores.
Despite the twists and turns on the political scene of late, we are fortunate in these islands to live in one of the more economically stable and less climatically extreme regions.
I'm impressed that many of our young people, aware that these issues might impact on their own lives, are directly engaged in seeking solutions.
This was very much in my mind when I met a team from the Global Fund's One Campaign at the Houses of Parliament.
Amongst them was 20-year-old volunteer Lauren Asher of Dumfries, one of the successful health organisation's UK ambassadors.
She brought me up to date with their fantastic work in combating HIV/AIDS, tuburculosis (TB) and malaria and how UK investment in the Global Fund had helped save 27 million lives.
Sadly, after 10 years of tremendous progress, cases of preventable diseases such as malaria are increasing again and the One Campaign aim to urgently refocus efforts to reverse the trend.
Lauren, a Dumfries and Galloway Council youth worker, does a good job raising awareness of these issues and how solutions are not just in the interest of the affected nations but the entire global population.
The team also met Cumbrian MP Rory Stewart, new International Development Minister, whose department last year invested more than £14 billion in UK overseas aid.
Special year for Holyrood
This summer marks the 20th anniversary of the Scottish Parliament and I believe most people now agree that it has enhanced our democracy.
In my opinion, Holyrood is at its best when efficiently managing our large devolved public services, such as the NHS, transport and education, reflecting the particular needs of Scotland.
Sadly, the current SNP-controlled administration are less effective because they spend so much time and energy trying to break up the United Kingdom.
That said, I wish all Scottish Parliament colleagues, past and present, all the best for this important anniversary.
