January 2007

Scotland Office This month I was involved in the parts of the Serious and Organised Crime bill that related to Scotland, helped to host Treaty of Union celebrations and attended a ministerial group on human rights. At Scottish Questions I was asked about the administration of the Scottish Elections on 3rd May, correspondence undertaken by the Scotland Office, immigration and asylum seekers. Also met with the British Bio- Industry Association to discuss biotechnology developments in Scotland and also took part in civil contingencies meetings. Constituency Among the constituency business for January was a visit to St Ninian’s Primary School where I was closely questioned about my role as the MP for Inverclyde by some very intelligent and inquisitive pupils. Also on the agenda was a meeting with River Clyde Homes, to discuss their plans to take over from Inverclyde Council now that they have been successful in the Housing Stock Transfer ballot. Also had the privilege of showing some constituents round Westminster. Northern Ireland Spoke in this month’s Northern Ireland Questions in some detail about agriculture in the Province, and also took part in minor legislation covering illegal waste and minimising disruption caused by street works. Also met with various groups including the Directors of the Water Service Board, the Food Strategy Implementation Group and the Northern Ireland Women’s Rural Network. Additionally, I launched a report on climate changed in the Province, attended a conference on contaminated land met with executives from the Bushmills distillery. Surgeries I held several surgeries in the office and also one in the Boglestone Community Centre in Port Glasgow.