Refugees welcomed to region
Tragically parts of Ukraine now look more like war-torn Europe in 1942 rather than 2022, but, as in the past, the UK is rightly helping stand-up to disgraceful acts of aggression.
For example, we are providing Ukraine’s heroic forces with Starstreak anti-aircraft missiles to hit back at the Russian invaders' attack helicopters and fighter-bombers.
The UK is also about to supply armoured Stormer vehicles, able to carry Starstreak, which, in the past, was a defence system that underwent rigorous testing at West Freugh in Dumfries and Galloway.
Easing humanitarian aspects of this crisis remains vital.
The UK Government continues to provide direct support whilst the UK Disasters Emergency Committee, together with other leading charities, welcome donations.
I’m particularly pleased that the first refugees from Ukraine destined for Dumfries and Galloway are now settling in with their hosts. They are most welcome.
Funding for the future
Nationalist claims have wrongly implied that funding opportunities, such as those provided through EU structural funds, will disappear because of Brexit.
The fact is, as EU-backed projects reach a conclusion, the new UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF) will fully take over and — most importantly — match EU structural funding.
With unnecessary EU bureaucracy removed, delivering UKSPF to worthy projects should become easier. We are committed to working with the Scottish Government to ensure money goes where it is most needed, helping business and creating jobs.
The UKSPF is in addition to £171m invested in Scotland through UK levelling up funds and £1.5 bn invested by the UK Government in Scotland’s growth deals. The UK Government has also announced a record £41 bn per year block grant for Scotland.
Use your vote
My best wishes to Dawn Roberts on her appointment as the new chief executive of Dumfries and Galloway Council.
When she takes up her post this summer a new council will also be in place following the election on Thursday May 5.
I encourage Courier readers to use their vote as local authorities play an important role in all our lives and face significant challenges.