At the beginning of the month I was delighted to host a Roundtable with local farmers and regional NFU Scotland representatives to hear from International Trade Minister, Greg Hands MP, who addressed their concerns and queries over trade deals with Australia and others
During the recent blockade of the Peterhead Power Station by environmental protestors it was clear that they did not share the net-zero goals of either the UK Government or the Scottish Devolved Administration.
Since my last column, I have met with Police Scotland Area Commander, Chief Inspector Harrison, to discuss the police response to the spate of local vandalism and other issues around Banff and Buchan.
Since my last column, I was disappointed to see that there have been further incidents of vandalism in the Turriff area – this time at Wrae Lake. This is after two separate incidents at The Den play park about which I have previously written.
Last week, International Trade Secretary Liz Truss struck a trade deal in principle with Australia. This will mean greater opportunities for exports – particularly of our fantastic food and drink into growing markets.
Following recent repeated incidents of vandalism in the local area, including the damage inflicted to the Den playpark in Turriff, I raised with Police Scotland and have secured a meeting with the local Chief Inspector to discuss.
The North East of Scotland is extremely well placed to, not only lead the change to a sustainable and renewable energy future, but also to be at the forefront of developing new technologies and expertise for energy transition that can be exported across the world.
I would like to congratulate Karen Adam for her recent election as MSP for Banffshire and Buchan Coast, and wish her predecessor Stewart Stevenson all the very best and thank him for his many years of service to the area.
The Covid-19 vaccine programme continues at pace across the United Kingdom, with close to three-quarters of all adults having received at least one dose and nearly half now fully vaccinated.
