MSP backs the Money for Life Challenge

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) is encouraging education and training organisations to back Lloyds Banking Group’s Money for Life Challenge, a national competition for 16–24 year olds. 

As financial education has recently become part of the national curriculum, the Challenge is a complementary way for young people to learn vital money management skills, whilst helping to promote financial education in their community.

The Challenge is supported by Lloyds Banking Group and Young Scot, it seeks to find the most successful and innovative ways that young people can use to improve their money management skills, as well as those of their friends, families and communities.  

Teams of up to ten young people in further education, work-based learning, community learning or a training organisation can apply for a £500 grant to enter, with the support of an individual project sponsor from their organisation. Teams have until Friday 21 November 2014 to enter the competition. 

National finals will take place in April 2015, followed by a UK Grand Final in London on 28 May 2015 to select the overall competition winner.

Mr McMillan said;

“In addition to the financial education that young people will receive as part of our national curriculum, I’m keen to encourage education or community-learning organisations in my constituency to submit teams of young people to take part in the Money for Life Challenge. 

“It’s important that young people in the west of Scotland improve their financial skills and share their new knowledge with others in the community, and the Challenge is the perfect way to do this. Applications for this year’s competition are open until Friday 21 November 2014.

“I look forward to hearing about the innovative new projects that will be offered from young people throughout the region.”

For more information, please contact the Money for Life team at: moneyforlife@fourcommunications.com, or call 020 3697 4307

Young people interested in taking on the Challenge should keep an eye out for news of the 2014/2015 competition at moneyforlifechallenge.org.uk, visit the Facebook Page at www.facebook.com/moneyforlifeuk, or follow on Twitter at: @MoneyforLifeUK

McMillan Welcomes More Low Carbon Emission Buses

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) has welcomed the announcement from the Scottish Government, through the agency Transport Scotland, that £3.7 million towards the cost of purchasing another 83 low carbon emission buses has been allocated.

Nine bus operators, including Wilson’s of Rhu Ltd, have been awarded funding through round five of the Scottish Green Bus Fund.

Mr. McMillan said:

“I’m pleased to learn the Scottish Government is continuing to invest in green technology and the announcement of further low carbon emission buses is welcomed news.

“It’s also pleasing to learn that Wilson’s of Rhu Ltd were successful in the process and will receive 2 micro-hybrid buses.

“Once again, this Scottish Government is highlighting its credentials for investing in cleaner technologies and addressing the issue of climate change."

Transport Scotland release - http://www.transportscotland.gov.uk/news/more-low-carbon-vehicles-scotland%E2%80%99s-bus-fleet 

Wilson’s of Rhu Ltd – successful for 2 Wrightbus Streetlite micro-hybrids.

McMillan Highlights Further Investigations to take place on A78

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) has welcomed the response from Transport Scotland that indicates road safety investigations will take place at locations throughout Inverclyde, on the A78 road network.  These locations include Brachelston Street Junction, the roundabout at HM Prison Greenock and Inverkip North Junction.

Mr McMillan has continued to raise the issue of road safety on the A78 road network, specifically the Inverkip North Junction with the relevant authorities.  He has now received a response from Transport Scotland that indicates, “road safety investigations will take place in April 2015 and will assess all personal injury accidents that have occurred in the latest three year period.  It will also consider the causation of each of the accidents as well as previous measures that have been installed before making any recommendations.”

Mr. McMillan said:

“I’m pleased to learn that Transport Scotland has listened to the concerns I continue to raise, on behalf of my constituents, regarding road safety on the A78 and they will conduct further investigations on the network.

“I have been particularly concerned with road safety on at the Inverkip junction and once again I recently highlighted this to the relevant authorities to ask that more action be taken to increase safety on this stretch of road.

“The announcement that further action will be taken to look at problem sites is a welcomed step and I’m sure will be appreciated by motorists and local residents, particularly those in Inverkip.”

McMillan Welcomes A82 Flooding Issue Response

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) has welcomed the response from Transport Scotland that indicates action has been taken to clear the leaves and remove the tree roots that were causing flooding on the A82 Dumbuck Quarry.

Mr McMillan wrote to Transport Scotland to highlight recent flood conditions on the A82 Dumbuck Quarry area and to ask that action be taken to address the potential for flooding to occur in the future.

Mr. McMillan said:

“I welcome the response from Transport Scotland that action has been taken to ensure the potential for flooding on the A82 Dumbuck Quarry has been lessened, through clearing the leaves and removing tree roots.

“Flooding events can occur regularly throughout Scotland, therefore it’s important that pre-emptive measures are taken to mitigate the damage they may cause.

“I hope the action of Scotland Transerv, the operating company, will ensure the potential for future flooding on the A82 is minimised.”

McMillan welcomes Report on Unfair Private Parking Charges

“This report highlights the tactics used by some private parking firms to confuse drivers into paying unwarranted charges”, said Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP – West of Scotland).

Citizens Advice Scotland (CAS) has today (16th October) issued a report called ‘It's Not Fine’ which highlights unfair charges for parking on private land in Scotland. This report is based on the experience of citizens advice bureaux across Scotland who have been inundated in the last year with complaints regarding over-zealous parking charges - they are not fines - being handed out by the private parking industry in Scotland.

Bureaux regularly see consumers charged up to £200 for outstaying allotted time limits by as little as half an hour. Signs in private car parks – such as those outside supermarkets and garden centres – are not always clear or visible. Those who do not pay the charges often receive repeated letters from car park operators, many of which have references to rules and processes that do not apply in Scotland, such as County Court Judgments and the use of bailiffs.

The It’s Not Fine campaign aims to help consumers understand what's fair and what's not fair when it comes to parking charges on private land.

Commenting, SNP MSP Stuart McMillan said:

“Evidence from citizens advice bureaux show that unfair or disproportionate charges for parking on private land like supermarkets has become a big issue across Scotland.

“There seems to be a deliberate attempt by some private parking firms to confuse drivers into believing that parking charges are the same as penalty notices for parking on public land – this is simply not true.

“I would recommend all drivers read this short report so that they can understand the methods used by some private parking companies to try to make them pay unwarranted and over-zealous charges."

http://www.cas.org.uk/publications/its-not-fine

Westminster’s Failures on Child Poverty ‘A Disgrace’

“The latest figures on child poverty in Inverclyde are a disgrace and clearly shows that Westminster isn’t working for Scotland”, said Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP – West of Scotland).

A new report has highlighted the ‘disgraceful’ extent of child poverty in Scotland – and shows exactly why powers over the economy and welfare should be in Scotland’s hands, rather than Westminster’s.

The report by the Campaign to End Child Poverty confirms that over one in four children in Inverclyde now live below the poverty line. Across Scotland the figure is one in five children – with child poverty growing by three per cent in the last year as the impact of Westminster’s cuts agenda continues to his families and communities across the country.

Today’s report follows on from previous figures showing that Westminster’s policies could force another 100,000 children in Scotland into poverty by 2020.

Commenting, SNP MSP Stuart McMillan said:

“It is unacceptable that children in a rich country like Scotland should be facing up to living in poverty.

“But unfortunately we are seeing more children living in poverty due to UK Government’s welfare reforms and austerity drive which will see the next round of cuts due in 2017-18.

“Without having the relevant powers to tackle the issue of poverty, then no matter who is in power in Holyrood, then they will always be doing a job with one hand tied behind its back. The issue of the bedroom tax, introduced by Labour and extended by the Tory/Libdem coalition, proves this point.

“This is why Scotland needs control over welfare policy and has since made a submission to the Smith Commission for more powers, and to gain full responsibility over welfare.

“Full powers over welfare and social policy will allow us to tackle child poverty and allow Scotland to become a fairer country.”
“The fact that the Tory conference cheered as George Osborne announced his latest round of cuts which will hit working families is a chilling reminder of the attitude of the Westminster parties to social justice – the race to the right between Labour and the Tories amounts to nothing less than a shameless and sustained attack on the poor.”


Details of the report can be found here: http://www.dailyrecord.co.uk/news/scottish-news/scotlands-poverty-shame-laid-bare-4440064

McMillan Raises Further Concerns over ‘Tower of Terror’

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP, West Scotland) has today (Thursday) raised further concerns regarding the former Allied Distillery site in Dumbarton by writing to the Chief Executive of West Dunbartonshire Council.

Mr McMillan has highlighted constituent concerns regarding the structure of the building and also the issue of the nearby pavement which has a number of wire fences lying broken blocking the walkway

Previously Mr McMillan contacted PricewaterhouseCoopers (PwC) to highlight concerns of his constituents who indicated that young people were entering the site.  He has now received a response which indicates, “we have been advised to have the ground floor accesses to the tower concrete blocked as a more permanent solution”.

Mr McMillan said:

“It’s plain to see there are a number of safety concerns regarding the infrastructure at the site and the risk it poses to those who may, unfortunately, seek to exploit these weaknesses and gain access to the tower is evident.

“It’s vital that action is taking to ensure the structural integrity of the building is sound and that it’s not possible for anyone to enter this tower as we cannot have a situation whereby the building becomes a ‘tower of terror’ for anyone to exploit and enter illegally.

“Therefore, I am pleased to learn that PricewaterhouseCoopers will be undertaking further works to ensure the tower is safe and secure.  I hope all those interested parties will work together to establish a safe environment at the tower and its surroundings.”

McMillan Supports Breast Cancer Awareness Campaign

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) has joined the fight against breast cancer by taking part in Breast Cancer Campaign’s flagship fundraiser, wear it pink day.

The theme of wear it pink this year is to ‘look good, do good’ in support of breast cancer research. On Friday 24 October people across the country will come together to find fun and stylish ways to wear pink in the office, at home or at school. Donations raised by this year’s fashion inspired event will go to Breast Cancer Campaign to fund lifesaving breast cancer research.  

Mr McMillan said;

“Every year in Scotland more than 4,500 women are diagnosed with breast cancer. Sadly, more than 1,000 women die from this disease each year. This is why we need to support Breast Cancer Campaign’s fundraising efforts to support world-class breast cancer research that saves and improves lives, giving people quicker diagnoses and more effective treatments. 

“I hope you’ll all join me by wearing it pink on Friday 24 October and showing your support for breast cancer research.”

Stuart McMillan MSP showing his support for Wear it Pink campaign

wear it pink on Friday 24 October to support Breast Cancer Campaign’s lifesaving research. 

For more information or to register for wear it pink and receive your fundraising pack visit www.wearitpink.org. 

McMillan Welcomes Scot Govt Case for More Powers

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) has welcomed the case put forward by the Scottish Government, in its submission to the Smith Commission, for extensive new powers to be brought under the control of the Scottish Parliament.

The proposals – which focus on equipping the Scottish Parliament to create more jobs, tackle inequality and protect public services – have also been sent to the Commission led by Lord Smith of Kelvin.

Mr McMillan was especially pleased by the recommendation that full responsibility for the law on gambling should be devolved to the Scottish Parliament.

Mr. McMillan said:

“I welcome the proposals put forward by the Scottish Government, in its submission to the Smith Commission, for extensive new powers to be brought under the control of the Scottish Parliament.

“I have been campaigning for tougher rules surrounding the number of Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBT’s) on our high streets and am pleased the Scottish Government have included that gambling should be devolved to the Scottish Parliament.

“By devolving Gambling legislation to Scotland, there can be greater integration of both gambling and existing planning legislation to assist our town centres economically and socially.

“The Scottish Government’s case for more powers to the Scottish Parliament is supported by a great number of people who voted for exactly that in the referendum.  The status quo is no longer acceptable, and people want to see real change over issues such as taxation and welfare.

“I look forward to hearing more about the commission and the discussions about which powers should be transferred to the Scottish Parliament.”

More Powers for the Scottish Parliament: Scottish Government Proposals - http://www.scotland.gov.uk/Resource/0046/00460563.pdf

McMillan Encourages Regular Blood Pressure Testing to Avoid Stroke

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) has had his blood pressure taken at the Stroke Association’s stall in the Scottish Parliament to encourage others to have regular testing to avoid the potential for a stroke.

About half of strokes could be prevented with better identification and management of high blood pressure, which is the single biggest risk factor for stroke.

Mr. McMillan said:

“There is a well-established link between high blood pressure and stroke. I hope that events like this will help to raise public awareness about reducing the risk of stroke.

“I would therefore urge anyone who thinks they might be at risk to get tested. We are very fortunate that the Stroke Association laid on such a service to us here in the Scottish Parliament, and other employers should be encouraged to offer this to their staff.”

Stuart McMillan MSP having his blood pressure taken at the Scottish Parliament.

•           A recent Ipsos MORI Poll showed that public awareness of high blood pressure as the biggest risk factor for Stroke has dropped from 48% to 46%. (November 2011- November 2012).

•           A stroke is a brain attack, which happens when the blood supply to the brain is cut off, caused by a clot or bleeding in the brain. About 12,500 people have a stroke in Scotland every year and it is the leading cause of adult impairment and disability.

•           The Stroke Association is a charity who work directly with stroke survivors and their families and carers, with health and social care professionals and with scientists and researchers. They campaign to improve stroke care and support people to make the best recovery they can, as well as funding research to develop new treatments and ways of preventing stroke. The Stroke Helpline (0303 303 3100) provides information and support on stroke. More information can be found at www.stroke.org.uk

McMillan Highlights UK Govt Continued Refusal to Discuss Cruise Industry Issue

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) and Convenor of the Cross Party Group on Recreational Boating and Marine Tourism has highlighted a letter from the Scottish Government to the UK Government which indicates the UK Government’s continued refusal to discuss the concerns regarding passport checks on cruise passengers.

The on-going issue has previously been raised by Mr McMillan in-relation to the continued rise in the number of cruise ship passengers which are visiting Scotland and disembarking in port and harbours, such as in Greenock, Inverclyde and the checks which are put in place by the Home Office, as the issue is reserved to the UK Parliament.

Only this week it was announced, through the Office for National Statistics, that overseas visits to Scotland increased from over 2.2million in the year to the end of June 2013 to almost 2.6million in the year to the end of June 2014.  Spending by tourists from overseas was also up, rising from almost £1.5million in the year to the end of June 2013 to over £1.6million in the year to the end of June 2014.

Mr. McMillan said:

“On a week where we learn that the number of tourists which are visiting Scotland is increasing we also learn the UK Government is continuing to dig it’s heels in over passport checks on cruise ship passengers.

“The cruise industry is a very valuable one to the Scottish economy and brings in much needed support to areas such as Inverclyde when the cruise ships dock in Greenock and the passengers disembark to spend their money in the local economy.

“Therefore, it’s disappointing the UK Government will not discuss the on-going and unresolved concerns regarding passport checks on cruise passengers.

McMillan Welcomes a Budget for Fairness

Stuart McMillan MSP (SNP) has welcomed the publishing of the draft Budget by the Scottish Government which places fairness and a more equal society at the heart of its agenda.

The Scottish Government’s budget will see spending on the health service rise – with an increase to £288m in 2015/16. This is £86m more than the increase planned and takes health spending to over £12bn for the first time. 

West Dunbartonshire will receive a share of the £10.8 billion local government allocation, a £5.5 million boost to its housing stock and Scottish Government investment in Our Lady and St Patrick’s High School.

Mr. McMillan said:

“This budget demonstrates the Scottish Government’s continued commitment to building a fairer and more prosperous society.  One that leaves no one behind and helps those with the most need.

“The investment in our schools in West Dunbartonshire, along with the continued freezing of the council tax are important policies which will help hard working families and individuals with getting on with their daily lives.

“Alongside this, the £288m increase in the NHS budget announced will be welcomed across the country.

“With the limited powers currently at our disposal we have taken strong action to deliver for the people of Scotland – the Westminster parties must now deliver the substantial economic and welfare powers we need to make Scotland an even more prosperous and fairer country.  The people of Scotland will accept nothing less.”

Finance Secretary John Swinney outlined that people living in Scotland will benefit from:

•           Average savings of around £1,200 thanks to extra money provided to freeze council tax since 2007
•           Free prescriptions
•           Free school meals
•           Free personal care for the elderly
•           600 hours of free childcare for three and four-year-olds and the most vulnerable two-year-olds
•           More affordable housing
•           Continued measures to fully mitigate the Bedroom Tax
•           A commitment to the Living Wage
•           Quality healthcare and a protected NHS budget
•           Improvements to transport links
•           1,000 additional police officers across Scotland’s streets

MSP Pops into Towns Bookmakers

SNP MSP Stuart McMillan this week visited a bookmakers in Inverclyde to see Fixed Odds Betting Terminals (FOBT) at first hand.

The SNP MSP has been campaigning against the proliferation of the machines in town centres and in April led a Members Debate in which he called for the minimum bet per spin to be decreased from £100 to £2.

During the visit to the William Hill store in Greenock Mr McMillan spoke to staff and was given a demonstration play on a FOBT. He was also shown the stores compliance procedures and responsible gambling tools used to protect the players using FOBTs.

Currently £100 can be bet per spin every 20 seconds on FOBTs.

Following the visit Mr McMillan said:

“As someone who does not frequent betting shops on a regular basis, I felt it was important that I visited a shop and seen the workings of a FOBT for myself.

“I am grateful to William Hill and the shop staff for their friendly welcome, and for taking the time to show me the procedures they have in place to try and protect gaming machine players.

“Over the last few months I have spoken to many people who have had their life ruined by FOBTs.

“Even from the 5 minute demo mode that I played, I could clearly see how people can become addicted to the machines.”

McMillan Welcomes Plan to Block Poll Tax Collection

SNP MSP Stuart McMillan has welcomed the announcement by Alex Salmond that The Scottish government will bring in new laws to stop Councils pursuing people for historic Poll Tax debts.

First Minister Alex Salmond announced the move after it emerged local authorities were using the electoral register to chase outstanding bills.

The Poll Tax, or community charge, was introduced to Scotland in April 1989 and replaced by council tax in 1993.

Mr Salmond told MSPs it was misguided for councils to use current records to chase debts from decades ago.

Speaking during First Minister's questions in the Scottish Parliament, Mr Salmond said that, more than 20 years since the Poll Tax came to an end, the expanded electoral roll should not be used to claim those unpaid debts.

Mr Salmond said the total collected in 2013 from poll tax debt in Scotland was £396,000.

He added: "Therefore, I can announce today it's the government's intention to bring forward legislation to ensure that councils can take no further action to recover ancient poll tax debts.

"After 25 years, it's about time that the poll tax was finally dead and buried in Scotland."



Commenting on the announcement Mr McMillan said:



“The Poll Tax was a unfair and unpopular policy that was enforced on the people of Scotland by a Thatcher led Tory Government we did not elect.

“The fact that it was introduced in Scotland a whole year before England was testament to how little the Conservatives thought of the people of Scotland.

“It is disgraceful to think 25 years on Labour Councils are doing the dirty work of the Conservatives by pursuing debts enforced by them decades ago.

“I therefore fully welcome the announcement by the First Minister today.”