Action needed on Broadband
Commenting after an Ofcom report found that Scots are the least likely in the UK to have a broadband internet connection, Mid Scotland & Fife MSP Liz Smith has stepped up her calls for better broadband coverage.   The report showed that just 61% of Scots have broadband, compared with 74% of people across the whole of the UK.   Commenting, Liz Smith MSP said:   “This is deeply concerning and confirms a widely held suspicion that Scotland is lagging behind on broadband. Scotland was keeping pace with the rest of the UK in the last decade and we cannot afford to fall behind now. The fact that those in rural areas of Scotland – such as Perthshire – are even less likely to access broadband is particularly worrying.  Part of the problem in many communities in Perthshire is that broadband access is too often either slow or non-existent. I have worked closely with a number of communities to fight for improvements to their broadband access. However, it is clear that the problem needs to be addressed on a wider scale.   In our manifesto for this year’s election, my party pledged £135m to match funding from business investors to ensure that rural communities enjoy a fast broadband service. This complimented pilot funding being made available by the UK Coalition Government. But the SNP Scottish Government needs to do far more. If we are to take advantage of emerging trends for home based working, develop the new business opportunities and unique lifestyle benefits our rural communities offer and also reach the extremely tough carbon emissions targets we have set by reducing unnecessary car usage then we need a comprehensive, urgent and far sighted action plan for connectivity infrastructure investment.”
MSP welcomes new road safety measures at killer junction
Perthshire based MSP, Liz Smith, has welcomed the new road safety measures to improve a dangerous junction near Madderty in Strathearn. The Mid Scotland & Fife MSP has lobbied Perth & Kinross Council and Transport Scotland to improve road safety at this rural junction.   Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:   "I am delighted that the location of the signage at this junction has been altered so as to improve the vision of motorists as they approach this crossroads from all directions. The previous location badly obscured the view of eastbound traffic for any motorists who were waiting to cross the junction from the Gorthy road and it was also difficult to see some of the signage travelling on the main road.   There is a particularly bad "hidden dip" on one stretch just along from the junction and, as well as one fatal accident, there have been several more minor accidents and near misses - all of which have caused considerable concern to local residents. Now that the council has also cut the verges, this junction is much safer than it was before and it is much clearer in terms of good vision in every direction."
Tory MSP backs Perthshire Chamber of Commerce call for better broadband provision
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has backed the Perthshire Chamber of Commerce’s call for better broadband provision and called on the SNP Scottish Government to bring forward funding to address rural broadband black-spots. Ms Smith has been leading the campaign to see improvements to broadband in Scotland, especially in rural communities. The Perthshire based MSP has written to Alex Neil MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment asking for an update on what proposals the SNP Scottish Government has to bring forward investment in rural broadband.   During the Scottish Parliament elections the SNP made next generation high speed broadband across Scotland a key issue with a proposal to spend £50m on a nationwide network. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:   “Access to broadband in rural areas is essential in order to grow the rural economy. I am determined to make sure that Perthshire and Kinross-shire is not left behind and that we see the investment needed to make sure that all communities have access to fast broadband connectivity. “Every year it seems that we are seeing an even larger gulf in technology being offered to the cities compared to rural areas. This underlines the fact that there is an urgent need for all of rural Scotland to be broadband-enabled and that the Scottish Government must invest in superfast broadband for the whole of Scotland. Rural Scotland is being short changed by the lack of broadband connectivity, and the lack of fast and reliable broadband is holding back businesses and the Scottish economy. Broadband is as important to many farming businesses as the tractor or livestock now. I have today written to written to Alex Neil MSP, Cabinet Secretary for Infrastructure and Capital Investment asking for an update on what proposals the SNP Scottish Government has to bring forward investment in rural broadband in Perth & Kinross. I believe it is vitally important that we see real progress made and that the SNP Scottish Government commit to bring forward the investment they promised at the election in improve broadband for across Scotland.”
Perth & Kinross Council would be big losers under SNP council funding change
Have SNP become a central belt bias party ?   Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called on the SNP Scottish Government to review the funding formula for local government to ensure Perth & Kinross Council does not lose out when the SNP Scottish Government introduces an 85% floor level of Scottish Government funding to Local Authorities. The SNP Scottish Government currently allocates to Perth & Kinross Council the fourth lowest level of funder per capita out of Scotland’s thirty two Local Authorities.   Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:   “At the recent Holyrood election the SNP promised to introduce a funding floor for Scottish Local Authorities which would see councils receiving no less than 85% of the average. Yet, it is estimated that setting the floor at 85% would have no direct benefit to Perth & Kinross Council and would see local tax payers lose out. Perth & Kinross Council currently receives the fourth lowest level of funding per head of population from the SNP Scottish Government out of Scotland’s thirty two Local Authorities. The SNP Scottish Government allocated £1882.00 per capital to Perth & Kinross Council this financial year some £246 less per capita than the national average. Unless SNP Ministers will listen to the needs of rural councils like Perth & Kinross and set the funding floor at 90% then local taxpayers can only draw the conclusion that the SNP have become a central belt bias party.  Scottish Conservatives proposed to review the funding formula for local government to ensure fairness for all parts of Scotland. In my opinion, the review commissioned by the SNP was not impartial as it was undertaken by COSLA.”     Cllr Alexander Stewart, Leader of the Conservatives on Perth & Kinross Council said:   “Local government funding will continue to be a major issue and impact directly of the ability of councils to deliver the level of local services expected at the same time as seeing the SNP Scottish Government squeeze funding.  Perthshire and Kinross-shire taxpayers will want to know why the SNP Scottish Government are presiding over a situation which will see Perth & Kinross Council receive the fifth lowest level of funder per capita out of Scotland’s thirty two Local Authorities.”
SMITH BACKS NFU SHELF WATCH CAMPAIGN
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has encouraged local residents across Perthshire and Kinross-shire to take part in a new campaign launched by NFU Scotland designed to show the best – and worst – of Scottish branding on shop shelves. The ‘Spot it – Snap it – Send it’ campaign encourages supermarket customers to use their mobile phones or cameras to snap a picture of examples of good, and bad, uses of Scottish labelling while out doing their grocery shopping.   NFU Scotland has announced it will be working with its members, and with volunteers from Consumer Focus Scotland, to monitor how Scottish branding and advertising correlates with produce that can be found on supermarket shelves, and is encouraging all consumers to take part in the campaign. The Mid Scotland & Fife MSP has led calls for clearer labelling of local produce in Scotland. As part of the NFU campaign, examples of good or bad uses of Scottish branding can be photographed and sent to 07920 018 621, or shelfwatch@nfus.org.uk Liz said: “I welcome this initiative from NFUS and I hope that local residents will take part not only to support Scottish farmers but also to make sure that supermarkets are not misleading consumers.  Perthshire and Kinross-shire are rightly renowned for their world class produce and the food and drinks sector plays a vital role in the local economy.  It’s important that shoppers can trust and understand the labels on the products they buy, and I hope that people across Perthshire and Kinross-shire will take this opportunity to share any good – or bad – examples they find of Scottish branding on produce.”
Scottish Conservatives call for action on school bus failure
Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife and Scottish Conservative Education Spokesperson, has written to the Minister for Community Safety after it was revealed that police carrying out safety checks on school buses ordered three off the road immediately after finding "severe" defects.   Liz said:   “I am deeply concerned that Central Scotland Police carrying out spot safety checks on school buses ordered three off the road immediately after finding ‘severe’ defects and banned two drivers for nine hours as they were unable to prove how long they had been driving.  Most concerning was the fact that two buses had emergency exits that could not be opened and defective seatbelts.  The safety of children going to and from school or going on school trips must be paramount and parents deserve peace of mind.   I have today written to the Minister for Community Safety asking for an update on what guidance the Scottish Government has given to Scottish Local Authorities. I have also asked the Minister to investigate this situation and update MSPs on what action the SNP Government will take to make all school buses safe.”
MSP backs – “Be Epilepsy Aware” campaign
Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife today showed support for the thousands of constituents who live with epilepsy. The Mid Scotland & Fife MSP gave her support during Epilepsy Awareness Week 2011 and attending the launch of the a handy new reference guide, prepared by the Joint Epilepsy Council with Epilepsy Scotland, which MSPs can use to find the latest information and support for local families.   Liz said:  “I very much welcome the launch of the new ‘be epilepsy aware’ handy reference guide, prepared by the Joint Epilepsy Council with Epilepsy Scotland, which MSPs can use to find the latest information and support for local families. Many people across the Mid Scotland & Fife Region which I represent live with this long term and sometimes difficult to manage condition and I welcome any additional support which can be given to help individuals manage the condition and to realise their potential."   Chief Executive Lesslie Young said: “It’s important to be epilepsy aware because epilepsy affects people of all ages and is far more common than people think.  This information tool makes it easier for politicians to help those living with the condition.  It provides them with basic facts as well as details of useful helplines like ours at Epilepsy Scotland and agencies which can assist with common queries about healthcare, education, driving and benefits. MSPs are busy people so this brief guide will signpost them to organisations that can provide further help as quickly as possible.  Over 40,000 people in Scotland live with this long term and sometimes difficult to manage condition. Coping in the best of times can be a challenge but the recession is presenting additional stress  particularly for those whose    essential services are being reduced or withdrawn unexpectedly. Meantime demands on voluntary organisations like ours are increasing while vital funding  is being squeezed from every direction. In many cases voluntary organisations are the only support or voice a person with epilepsy has to represent them or help them to make an informed choice.  We hope policy makers and politicians will realise the wellbeing of some of their most vulnerable constituents is at risk and will act swiftly to ensure this situation is addressed.”
Smith welcomes talks on Sheep EID
Mid Scotland & Fife MSP Liz Smith has welcomed the news that constructive meetings have this week taken place in Brussels on the introduction of new rules on Electronic tagging of sheep.   Liz said: “These unnecessary and costly rules are proving to be a real burden for farmers across Mid Scotland & Fife. In particular the EU’s inflexibility on the implementation of the rules is causing real concern to farmers. I have highlighted these concerns on a number of occasions and I am pleased that the Agriculture Ministers from both the Scottish and UK Governments have been pursuing this issue with the EU in Brussels. It seems that their discussions with the European Commissioner were constructive and I hope that the EU will realise the need to find a workable solution to the huge problems faced by the Scottish industry. However, if they retain their inflexible and arbitrary approach to the introduction of these rules, then it could have serious consequences for sheep farmers in Mid Scotland & Fife and across Scotland.”
Perthshire MSP backs ASDA Kwik Cricket Competition
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife attended the Scotland final of the 2011 ASDA Kwik Cricket competition for primary schools at Doo'Cot Park in Perth on Tuesday 14th June. The MSP, who is a former cricket internationalist as well as an experienced coach has given her support to the scheme which aims to introduce more Scottish school children to Scotland's fastest growing sports.    Liz said:   “I am delighted to support the 2011 ASDA Kwik Cricket competition for primary schools. Kwik Cricket is a great way to get children to be active and introduce them to one of Scotland's fastest growing sports.  Over 5,000 children participated in the competition last year with the Scotland final winners progressing to represent Scotland at the UK final at Derby County Ground on 20th July.  I would also commend ASDA on their continued sponsorship of Kwik Cricket and support given to Cricket Scotland in developing the game across the country.”
MSP backs Carers Week 2011 Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has given her support to this year’s Carers Week (13-19 June). The week is designed to help recognise the contribution made by those people across Mid Scotland & Fife and throughout the UK who provide unpaid care for someone who is ill, frail or disabled. The theme for Carers Week 2011 is ‘The True Face of Carers’. It calls for greater recognition for the diverse range of people who have caring responsibilities. The work they carry out is vital for their families and friends, and for their communities. Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “Thousands of people across Mid Scotland & Fife sacrifice not only their time, but also their money and their health in order to care for a loved one. Together they save the UK an incredible £119 billion every year. They deserve to be recognised for their contribution to both our local community and to wider society. “I am supporting Carers’ Week 2011 to show my respect and appreciation for all our carers. I also want to let them know that there are services out there to help them. Caring can be so incredibly demanding. It’s important that carers know that they don’t have to struggle on alone.”
Smith welcomes progress on supermarket watchdog
Elizabeth Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has welcomed progress by the UK Conservative Government towards the creation of a supermarket watchdog, as draft legislation was introduced to the UK Parliament this week. The Draft Groceries Code Adjudicator Bill will seek to address imbalances in the supply chain to benefit both food producers and consumers.   Elizabeth Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:   “I have been calling for action on this for a number of years and I am pleased that there is now some progress towards the introduction of a supermarket watchdog. It is disappointing that it has taken this long to get to the point of legislation being presented to Parliament, but I hope it will go some way towards ensuring fairness in the food production system.   “Whilst this is a step in the right direction, we will have to wait for precise details of how powerful the adjudicator will be. As well as being able to investigate suspected breaches of the Code of Practice, it is important that suppliers are able to report directly to the new body to ensure that the system works for producers, as well as consumers.   “There is much still to be clarified but this progress is definitely a move in the right direction of ensuring fairness in the food supply chain.”
Cancelling fuel duty increase will help Perthshire & Kinross-shire families and businesses
Mid Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP, Elizabeth Smith as called for the planned fuel duty increase – left on the incoming UK Government’s books by the last Labour Government – to be cancelled.  Elizabeth said: “With fuel prices continuing to rise, there are real concerns about the impact that high prices are having on drivers and businesses, particularly in rural areas such as Perthshire & Kinross-shire. The forthcoming fuel duty increase will only make the situation worse. I know that my colleague Annabel Goldie MSP recently raised concerns about the cost of fuel directly with the Prime Minister.  Yesterday in the Scottish Parliament, my Conservative colleagues and I supported a motion highlighting the very real difficulties being faced by motorists, businesses and those in the rural economy. Drivers in the Perthshire & Kinross-shire, who often have no public transport alternative, are being hit particularly hard by the sky high prices at the pump and it is crucial that prices are not allowed to continue to rise out of control. Labour left the UK finances in a desperate state but, in view of the prevailing record fuel prices, we join the calls for the UK Government to cancel the fuel duty increase Labour planned for April - in so doing families and businesses alike across the Perthshire & Kinross-shire will benefit.”
One year on - SNP failing to deliver on hearing specialist referral time
Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, has revealed that, one year on patients in NHS Tayside are still facing an average wait of 24 weeks to see a hearing specialist. The situation has got even worse with up to date figures showing that patients in NHS Tayside faced an average wait of 25 weeks to see a hearing specialist in the quarter ending September – December 2010. This is the longest wait in Scotland, and according to figures obtained by the Scottish Conservatives compares against a national on average waiting time of 10 weeks to see a hearing specialist. The SNP Scottish Government have a referral time target of 18 weeks. Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:     “One year on from revealed that under the SNP patients in NHS Tayside face an average wait of 24 weeks to see a hearing specialist the situation has got even worse with the a average waiting time increasing to 25 weeks.  These figures reveal a huge gulf between the experience of patients in NHS Tayside and other Health Boards across Scotland. These figures demonstrate that a postcode lottery is in place when it comes to seeing a hearing specialist. I am deeply concerned that the situation is not being addressed and is not being given the priority that it should be. I have today written to Nicola Sturgeon, SNP Cabinet Secretary for Health & Wellbeing to request a meeting to find out why no progress has been made to shortage of hearing specialist in NHS Tayside and why the SNP Scottish Government is failing to deliver on their referral time target.”
MSP calls on Perth & Kinross Council to seek improvements to council tax collection
Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called on Perth & Kinross Council to continue to seek improvements to council tax collection levels. The call comes following the release of information by the BBC which shows that in 2009/10 Perth and Kinross Council failed to collect £2,985,295. This means that in total between 1993 and 2010, there was £17,574,124 of uncollected council tax. Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “Perth & Kinross Council are to be congratulated for the relatively high levels of council tax which they have managed to collect in comparison with other councils. However, clearly there remains a significant amount of uncollected council tax which, if it was collected, could be used to help fund day care centres, pay for school support staff, or fund the much needed repair work on potholes across Perthshire & Kinross-shire.   The uncollected tax means a greater burden on those who do pay, putting extra strain on local authorities and extra pressure on local services.  I hope that Perth & Kinross Council will continue to seek improvements to council tax collection levels and they will work to make sure that every penny of outstanding Council Tax is collected.”
MSPs show support for John Muir Trust
Mid Scotland & Fife, Conservative MSPs Liz Smith and Murdo Fraser have given their backing to the John Muir Trust - Wild Land Campaign. The John Muir Trust visited the Scottish Parliament to hand their petition into the Parliament’s Petitions Committee. The petition aims to provide for greater protection of the UK's wild land. The John Muir Trust is campaigning for a new environmental designation for wild land in Scotland, and for the expansion and creation of National Parks, as areas of land largely unaffected by human intervention are being rapidly depleted throughout the country. Commenting Liz Smith MSP said: "Wild land is essential to wildlife, the economy and our wellbeing. However, in recent years it has come under unprecedented pressures from inappropriate developments, this is clearly of great concern to people across Scotland.” Murdo Fraser MSP said:  " would like to thank the John Muir Trust for helping to safeguard Scotland’s natural environment. The role which the Trust and their members play in supporting our wild places is invaluable.”
A9 promises made to communities across Perthshire and the Highlands by the SNP must be kept
Speaking in this evenings Member’s Debate on dualling the A9 secured by Murdo Fraser MSP. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “The A9 is officially Scotland’s most dangerous road with the highest fatality rate of any road in the country.  It witnesses on average over 200 road accidents a year and last year 13 people were tragically killed on the stretch between Perth and Inverness. No one pretends that dualling the A9 will end all accidents on the road but it is clear that dualling the road would greatly reduce the number of accidents and save lives.  We all know that the major problems with the A9 between Perth and Inverness are the long and dangerous stretches of single carriageway across which are some very difficult junctions, and we can all see for ourselves that many of the worst accidents have been on the stretches where the road continually switches between single and dual carriageway. The A9, by definition, is also one of Scotland most important transport links. The inevitable disruption which was caused by the recent severe winter was a major talking point for motorists and businesses alike given how essential the route is.  The A9 North of Perth, where it is clearly more difficult to take alternative routes, needs priority status. However, I would also highlight again to the Minster the dangerous junctions on the A9 south of Perth at Blackford and Auchterarder and the need for improvements on this section too hopefully on a long term basis similar to the improvements carried out on the A90 between Perth and Dundee. In recent times, we heard from the SNP Scottish Government that its failure to act and keep their 2007 election pledge is due to funds being diverted away to the Edinburgh Trams Project. However, can I point out that this is not, in fact, a correct claim because, at the time of the Parliamentary vote on the Trams Project in 2007, it was made crystal clear by the SNP Government that the trams money could not have been diverted to the roads budget, but could only be spent on "public transport projects that tackle congestion, connectivity and journey times in Edinburgh and across Scotland.  This is a matter of public record, and I think the SNP need to reflect upon this carefully. These two transport issues cannot and should not be played off one against the other. They are quite separate projects with very different aims and which, if we are to believe the SNP’s own words, are not subject to the same funding streams. As we all know, there have been far too many lives lost, too many serious injuries and too many families affected by the lack of dualling on the A9. None of us, whether in opposition or government can afford to ignore the statistics and the despair of the families affected. Being Scotland’s most dangerous road is a frightening title and one which causes very considerable concern across communities in Perthshire and Highland Region. Scottish Conservatives appreciate the limitations of public spending but the improvements promised must be kept. Anything less will show that promises made to communities across Perthshire and the Highlands by the SNP are promises broken.”
SNP and Lib Dem commitment to outdoor education in tatters as Fife Council move to scrap outdoor learning for pupils
Liz Smith, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Education & Lifelong Learning and Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, has called on the SNP and Scottish Liberal Democrats to honour their election pledges to provide outdoor education for Scotland’s children.  Lib Dem / SNP controlled Fife Council plan to cut the outdoor education programme for Fife children. Ardroy Outdoor Education Centre currently has virtually every academic week booked by Fife schools through to June 2013 and this centre’s future is now at risk. Fife Council’s decision will see over 2000 primary school children across Fife lose this outdoor learning opportunity. A final decision will be made on its fate early in February 2011. Pupils from Perth & Kinross and Argyll & Bute Councils also attend outdoor education programmes at Ardroy. Liz  said: “For more than 40 years, Ardroy has been delivering inspirational outdoor learning opportunities to generations of Fife residents and beyond. Each year P7 pupil from schools across Fife take part in a week’s residential outdoor education program. I have received letters and emails from pupils, teachers and adults who have enjoyed their time at Ardroy and who now see what a worthwhile experience it was for them and can be for future generations of Scotland’s children. Both the SNP and Liberal Democrat parties made the commitment in their 2007 Holyrood Manifestos to provide outdoor education to Scotland’s young people. In power together they are doing the opposite and scrapping outdoor education for Fife children.   It would be a sad day for Ardroy Outdoor Education Centre to cease to operate, but it would be an even sadder day for all the children who would lose out on this experience. It would also be directly at odds with the ideals set out by SNP Ministers in the Curriculum for Excellence.Both the SNP and Liberal Democrats pledged to outdoor education for every school pupil at the last Holyrood election. I have today written to Mike Russell MSP, SNP Cabinet Secretary for Education, asking him to look at what support the Scottish Government can give to secure the future running costs of the centres and given the fact that this will see over 2000 primary school children across Fife lose this outdoor learning opportunity.”
SNP test on road funding
Councils are to share an extra £15m from the SNP Scottish government to cover the impact of winter conditions on Scotland's roads. Up to a tenth of Scotland's road network is thought to require urgent work to repair damage caused by the severe weather. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called on SNP Ministers to ensure a fair share of funding is delivered to Perth & Kinross, Stirling, and Fife Councils which has seen some of the worst weather this winter and has a major backlog or road repairs. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “I welcome the fact that SNP Ministers have listened to concerns that local Councils across Scotland face major difficulties in repairing roads damaged by the severe winter weather Scotland has seen.  The fact that COSLA has been given the job of allocating this additional £15m to councils does not fill me with confidence, given that the funding formula used for financial distribution have seen large rural councils lose out to central belt councils. I will be writing to the new SNP Transport Minister to highlight the needs of Councils such as Perth & Kinross, Stirling, and Fife and to ask that they receive their fair share.”
MSP expresses concern about outside lane snow clearance on M90 motorway
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has written to BEAR Scotland to express concern regarding the standard of gritting and snow-plough clearance on the M90 motorway. The Perthshire based MSP has also asked for a review to be undertaken regarding the use of overhead gantry signs on the M90 and will raise the issue with Transport Minister Keith Brown MSP during General Questions in the Scottish Parliament on Thursday (13th January) to press for more appropriate information to be provided to motorists to plan for their journey. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “I have been contacted by several constituents who, like me, are regular motorists on the M90 between Perth and Edinburgh and who, in recent days, have, quite rightly, expressed considerable concerns about the standard of gritting and snow-plough clearance on the motorway. In particular, the concerns relate to the inadequate clearing of the outside lane in the locations detailed below and of several slip-roads. In some places, the outside lanes of both the north and south bound carriageways were reduced to three-quarters and, in some cases, only two thirds of the normal width, with the result that it was not possible to safely overtake other vehicles. As temperatures fell in the late afternoon and evening these stretches became icy and even more dangerous given that drivers’ visibility is always constrained in darkness. Even with the vast majority of motorists taking additional care and slowing their speeds I would suggest the road was treacherous in places. I fully understand that the recent period of winter weather has been both extensive and severe and that there has been very considerable pressure placed upon our gritters. I am sure they have, in most cases, been working round the clock and that it was no easy matter to deal with the difficult conditions. Nonetheless, I think there are two important issues: firstly, there was the inconsistency of snow clearance. If it was possible to undertake very good clearance of the inside lanes and many parts of the outside lanes why was this not possible on the whole stretch of the motorway and why was it not possible to clear the slip-roads to the same standard? Secondly, there were some days when there was a sufficient rise in temperature to soften the snow along the central reservation and it should have been perfectly possible to clear the snow away from all of the outside lanes. Over the last few weeks, the vast majority of overhead gantry signs on the M90 have been reading “Wintry conditions; plan ahead” when, in fact, more appropriate information would have been much more helpful, in terms of warning motorists at certain points not to use the outside lanes and to slow their speed. Although I appreciate this is an issue for Transport Scotland I hope that the new Transport Minister, Keith Brown MSP will agree to undertake a review of the use of overhead gantry signs and put in place measure to improve information and co-operation between BEAR and Transport Scotland?”
MSP welcomes launch of new avalanche training programme
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife and a keen hill walker has welcomed the launch of new avalanche training programme in Glencoe. The new avalanche training programme will be launched on Saturday (January 8) by legendary mountaineer Hamish MacInnes – one of the founders of the Scottish Avalanche Information Service. The project is a collaboration between Glencoe Ski Centre, Backcountry Access (whose avalanche safety equipment is distributed in the UK By Anatom), Glencoe Ski Patrol and the Scottish Mountain Safety Group. In order for transceivers to be used effectively, owners are advised to practise regularly. Transceiver training parks are dedicated sites allowing the opportunity for advanced training, for example in deep and multiple burials, as well as more straightforward practice sessions. It is hoped that the training park will help to save lives in the Scottish mountains in the coming years as it will allow emergency teams, backcountry skiers, climbers and hillwalkers to test their emergency equipment and hone their companion rescue skills just metres from the plateau café at Glencoe ski centre. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:  "I think this is an excellent programme. We can never be too careful on the Scottish hills and the more people who have advanced training skills the better. Having undertaken two winter climbs in the past two weeks, I have seen for myself just how difficult some of the mountain routes are proving to be and with the extensive snow and ice there will be many dangers around even at relatively low level. Scotland has led the way in many aspects of mountain craft, better mountain weather forecasting and better training for rescue teams. This additional initiative is to be warmly welcomed too."
Conservatives call for clarity to help combat future bad weather
Mid Scotland and Fife Conservative MSPs, Liz Smith and Murdo Fraser, have called on Perth and Kinross Council to clarify guidance issued to willing members of the public, urban and rural, to do what they can to help combat the bad weather. Following reports that Perth and Kinross council is making available an additional £30,000 of bad weather contingency funds in the build up to Christmas. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “These additional funds are good news but they are not enough on their own. The council needs to clarify guidance issued to members of the public in order to give them greater confidence so that they know how to cope in bad weather, and to encourage those who are willing and able to play their part in helping to address the situation. Many people feel there is a lot of misinformation out there and this makes them rather reluctant to get involved when in most cases there is no issue. The councils which did best in last year’s winter weather were those which encouraged people to provide help in their local communities. Perth and Kinross Council should do the same.  Two weeks ago I was in touch with Perth and Kinross Council to ask if we could have additional yellow bins in rural areas and if the gritting lorries could leave some piles of grit at strategic locations so that rural communities can help to clear some of the snow on some of the worst affected rural routes. I’m pleased to say that has now happened but we need more to cope with the next batch of bad weather especially as the council is admitting some rural roads may be left untouched. Many local farmers are also willing to use their machinery to assist and should be encouraged to do so to help local communities.  It is also essential that help lines are properly manned and that local radio stations, which can be so enormously helpful, are able to give as much air time as possible to reporting the detailed forecasts. If there is one important message for Perth and Kinross Council it is that good communication is essential.” Murdo Fraser, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “Last winter and earlier this month, it seemed that Perth witnessed some of the most severe wintry conditions in the whole of the UK. I hope that neighbours watch out for one another and especially check up on any vulnerable neighbours in the community as we prepare ourselves for another severe weather blast.  The SNP Government has had two attempts at getting this right and has failed to cope each time.  Residents in Perth and throughout Perthshire understand that we cannot control the weather but what annoys people is the complete lack of information.  With another extended period of harsh weather approaching, people want to be kept up-to-date on the conditions and receive sound advice.  The Council must to everything in order to collect rubbish from households. Constituents have contacted me and are concerned that there have not been uplifts for almost a month in some parts.  Some constituents also state there is confusion over which bins to put out and when they might be uplifted.  There are concerns about vermin being attracted to the uncollected rubbish and it is a public health concern so the Council must ensure it is collecting rubbish in reasonable times and keeping constituents up-to-date.  The Council must continue to work flat out to clear the backlog of general waste that accumulated during the last heavy snow and freezing temperatures and keep on top of the wintry conditions.  In order to minimise hazardous pavements and roads, I want to see offenders in Perth & Kinross help out the effort to clear our local roads and pavements of snow and ice.  What better way for an offender to repay their debt to society then by doing their community service through helping out during the severe weather.”
MSP seeks answers on A977 road safety improvements
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called for action to address road safety issues on the A977 and ease the number of heavy goods vehicles which use the road. Speaking at General Questions the Mid Scotland & Fife MSP asked SNP Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson what support SNP Ministers have given to improve road safety on the A977. Liz  has also written to Bernadette Malone, Chief Executive of Perth & Kinross Council to ask for an update on when local communities can expect to see road safety improvements put in place and what funding has been secured to date. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “I have received a number of representations from constituents living in the villages of Balado and Crook of Devon which have seen significant increases in traffic since the opening of the Clackmannanshire Bridge.   The A977 has seen a significant increase in traffic particularly heavy goods vehicles since the opening of the new Clackmannanshire Bridge, however local residents are still waiting to see the implementation of promised mitigation measures to encourage heavy goods vehicles to use the M9 and M90 instead.  This is an issue which continues to affect many local people and it is important that we see promises made to help improve road safety and particularly actions to reduce the number of heavy goods vehicles using the road. I have today written to Bernadette Malone, Chief Executive of Perth & Kinross Council to ask for an update on when local communities can expect to see these road safety improvements put in place.”
Smith welcomes broadband announcement
Mid Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP, Liz Smith, has welcomed the announcement from the UK Government that every community in the UK will gain access to super-fast broadband by 2015. Liz commented “This announcement is a real boost to rural communities and demonstrates the UK Government’s commitment to providing high speed internet to all communities, not just those in the big cities.  A number of rural Perthshire communities have struggled with poor broadband speeds, or sometimes no broadband access at all. No community, regardless of size or population should have to suffer from low quality internet services – especially when it is such a vital tool for communication and for business. These ruralcommunities will be pleased that, from 2015, they will no longer have to. These plans will see a combination of public and private money ensuring that fast broadband is extended into every community in the country.”
MSP calls on Council to place more grit bins in rural areas
Tory Mid Scotland and Fife MSP, Liz Smith, has asked Perth and Kinross Council  to provide more yellow grit bins in rural areas. Her call comes after several  constituents in the rural communities of Strathearn and Strathallan have  contacted her to ask why there are so few yellow bins are provided at key  locations on rural roads: "This is the second very severe winter in a row and for many residents in the  rural communities it is the second time they have been unable to take out their  vehicles for several days at a time because the gritters have either been unable  to reach them or not treated the rural roads because they are not categorised as  priority routes. These rural communities have the same needs as urban  communities when it comes to getting their children to aschool, accessing  medical services and getting essential supplies. At times like these, rural communities understand that there are substantial  pressures on council services to treat the main roads first but what they do not  understand is why they cannot be allowed to treat the more minor roads  themselves with the help of the yellow bins. While some routes have had  well-stocked supplies, other routes have had nothing and these communities are  quite rightly asking why not. We should not have to wait fot the bad weather to  arrive before this problem is addressed. Countries like Norway, Sweden and Switzerland have this kind of weather  permanently for four or five months at a time and they do not have the same  difficulties as Scotland. Part of this may be because they can predict weather  patterns much more accurately but part of it is also because they take such care  to ensure that their local communities are well provided for before the bad  weather sets in. Perth and Kinross Council needs to learn this lesson too."
MSP welcomes Chinese whisky agreement
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has welcomed the agreement secured by the Conservative Westminster Government to give Scotland’s national drink legal protection in China, meaning it will have to be sold according to UK rules. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “This is great news for the whisky industry in Scotland. Scottish Conservatives have been advocating the case for geographical indication status for Scotch whisky for some time and I am pleased that we have managed to deliver this important policy in Government. The industry is vital to the local economy with distilleries such as Glenturret, and Tullibardine providing local jobs and investment in many rural communities. The whisky industry also plays an important role in providing jobs for apprentices such as the cooperage training scheme at Diageo Carsebridge in Alloa which has seen the creation of a number of apprenticeships in recent years. This agreement secured by the Conservative Westminster Government is an important milestone in the future growth of the whisky industry. As sales continue to grow in emerging markets, this can provide the platform for the industry to develop in the future.”
SNP Ministers try to pull the wool over the eyes of local residents
Commenting on the announcement that SNP Scottish Ministers have approved plans to help minimise the cumulative visual impact of overhead lines around the new Beauly-Denny power line. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “SNP Ministers are trying to pull the wool over the eyes of local residents by only delivering basic mitigation requirements for feeder power lines and not addressing the actual need for undergrounding of the main line in parts of Perthshire and Stirlingshire. Although it is welcome news that there is to be some minor mitigation requirements for feeder power lines, many outstanding issues remain to be resolved regarding the undergrounding of the main line in parts of Perthshire and Stirlingshire.  Ever since the announcement on the Beauly to Denny power line was made by the SNP Government, SNP Ministers have been spinning that undergrounding is a possibility but this has been contradicted by the power companies who have made it clear that they will not underground the line. Today’s announcement has not provided for anything new and sadly for Scotland, the SNP Government has allowed itself to be played by the power companies once again. The manner in which the SNP Scottish Government has presided over the planning conditions for the Beauly to Denny power line has been incompetent to say the least and has left many communities in the dark over what mitigation requirements they can expect, an unacceptable situation.”
Higher education: Scotland needs leaders, not followers
Scottish Conservative Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Education, Liz Smith MSP, has given a warm welcome to Lord Browne's Review into the future funding of higher education.  "This is the result of a very rigorous and thoughtful inquiry which has set out a clear vision for the future. Lord Browne has provided the basis for a new structure of graduate contributions which will raise academic standards. The plans also put part time learners on the same funding basis as their full time colleagues, and ensure that there are more opportunities for those from poorer backgrounds - something which the Scottish Conservatives believe is a key test of any new system. We also welcome the possibility that new measures could be put in place to help students cover living costs at the same time as tuition costs. Indeed, we should consider whether there should be a fixed minimum of graduate contribution payments given to expanded bursaries to meet these costs for poorer students. Lord Browne has put considerable focus on driving up standards and we welcome his recommendation that there should be variable fees. That is something we have recommended in Scotland on the basis that it gives greater autonomy to universities. It allows them to set the cost of the course according to the different requirements of different degree courses. In an age when we will almost certainly see more flexibility in the length of degree courses, this is entirely appropriate as long as it is tied to greater bursary payments and is accompanied by universities themselves doing all they can to run efficiently. I particularly agree with Lord Browne when he says that "our universities are too important for half-measures". That is a very strong message and I hope the Scottish Government will react positively to the Browne Review and, at long last, break its silence and show some leadership on this matter. Scottish Conservative calls for an independent review of the sector fell on deaf SNP government ears. But Mike Russell knows he cannot duck the issue much longer. We cannot ignore the problem. We cannot wait for the Holyrood Elections to pass before setting out what needs to be done. The crisis in funding is here and now, and Scotland needs leaders, not followers if we are to chart a way forward. The silence so far from the SNP and Labour has been deafening. The Scottish Conservatives reject up-front fees, and we reject a pure graduate tax. But if we are to remain world class, that means there has to be more funding available to our universities. We accept there is going to have to be a graduate contribution, repayable from future earnings and at an affordable rate, and so far we are the only Party prepared to grasp the thistle and put our cards on the table.”
Smith reveals SNP Tayside hearing aid scandal
SNP failing to deliver on referral time target Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has revealed that patients in NHS Tayside face an average wait of 24 weeks to see a hearing specialist. This is the longest wait in Scotland, and according to figures obtained by the Scottish Conservatives compares against patients in Lanarkshire who have to wait only 1 week on average to see a hearing specialist. The SNP Scottish Government have a referral time target of 18 weeks. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:     “These figures reveal a huge gulf between the experience of patients in NHS Tayside and other Health Boards across Scotland. These figures demonstrate that a postcode lottery is in place when it comes to seeing a hearing specialist. How can it be that a patient living in Lanarkshire has to wait only a week on average to see a hearing specialist and yet in Tayside we must wait almost half a year? Worse still these figures are averages, by definition some people will be waiting even longer. The SNP Scottish Government is failing to deliver on their referral time target.  Impaired hearing can create enormous problems with a person’s life – relationships, work, and even their personal safety. It is simply unacceptable that waiting times should be so long in Tayside. I am also concerned that ever when patients have seen a hearing specialist they face an average 6 week wait to receive a hearing aid.”
Speech delivered by Liz Smith at the Higher Education Conference held in the Scottish Parliament Tuesday 21st September
Ladies and Gentlemen As Annabel Goldie set out in her opening remarks, today is all about exploring a radical agenda for our university sector as it seeks to find a sustainable future which will allow it to face up to the very considerable challenges of maintaining academic excellence within Scotland in the 21st century. As we all know, that is no mean task and is one which could hardly be more urgent when one considers the ambitions for the sector set against the constraints of an exceptionally difficult economic environment. Just as was the case with the schools conference which we ran this time last year, the Scottish Conservatives, believe that we need to be very bold in our approach; prepared to answer, head on, some very difficult questions and to engage not only with those who run our university sector, but also with other stakeholder groups such as business and industry, schools, trade unions and students – something we believe has largely been missing from the Scottish Government’s approach. That is why today, we have invited a wide range of speakers who come from different political backgrounds and who have vast experience both within and outwith the university sector. Ladies and Gentlemen, as the Shadow Education Spokesman for the Scottish Conservatives, I was not prepared to sit back and let the current situation drift nor did I think it was appropriate not to put at least some of our cards on the table prior to the publication of the Browne Review, given that I firmly believe there must be a Scottish solution to the predicament in which our universities north of the border find themselves. And while I know we must wait for Lord Browne’s findings before we can refine the details of our policy, we can at this stage set out the broad parameters.  Annabel Goldie made clear in her opening remarks we start from the premise that the status quo for funding in Scotland is no longer tenable and that the decision taken by the Scottish Government to return to “free” higher education was the wrong one. If we are to preserve and enhance the international reputation of which we are naturally very proud, the case for change is overwhelming. So too, we believe, is the case for some form of student contribution, and I want, if I may, to outline what has driven our thinking about whether that contribution should be in the form of up-front tuition fees or a graduate tax or some form of deferred fee. Before making our choice from these three policy options we first had to set out the key principles which we felt should underpin any sustainable funding mechanism for the future. There are, we believe, four such principles; Firstly, that the funding mechanism must be “needs blind” so that it is academic merit and not either personal wealth or privilege that is the driver for a university place; an ethos which we believe has always been central to what is best in Scottish education. Secondly, we must do everything possible to enhance the very important autonomy of our university system; something which Sir Andrew Cubie has always rightly argued must never be undermined by government or by commercial enterprise. The third principle which has driven our thinking, is that of income contingency, which is a very important part of ensuring that the less affluent students are not dissuaded from applying to university. Income contingent systems are based on loans which are repaid by the student once a given threshold of earnings has been reached and at a rate which makes the repayment manageable ie a graduate who finds him or herself on relative high earnings not long after completing his or her course will be in a position to repay the loan more quickly than a graduate who takes a longer time to reach the threshold. The key advantage of income contingent loans is that the individual repays at a rate he/she can afford, unlike a set mortgage rate or a commercial loan. The fourth principle derives from the need to recognise that there are both marginal social benefits and marginal private benefit from education;  that is to say, both society and the student benefit from university education and if that is the accepted economic principle, then it is right that the individual as well as the government should also contribute to the cost of their degree. And that in turn means that there should be scope for universities to set variable fee rates rather than those which are a flat rate irrespective of either the length or the marginal cost of providing one particular course – in other words, some undergraduate courses will be more expensive than others. So these are the four key principles. Put them together with the need to combine maximum fairness within the system and the provision of a flexible, additional source of income which is so much needed by our universities, and we have what we consider to be a fairly compelling case in favour of some form of deferred fee system rather than up front tuition fees or a graduate tax. And, while we will hear more later today about how deferred fees work in other countries, a further attraction of examining the deferred fee option is the possibility that it might include a “package deal” - a system whereby students could combine the repayments for both the costs of their educational tuition and their living costs at the same time. But before I finish Ladies and Gentlemen, I want to argue that any policy recommendations we make in the area of higher education must work in tandem with those which promote schools reform and those within the qualifications network. And let me specific on this point, because if there is one elephant in the room, it is the problem caused by the fact that for too many people, university is often seen as the only acceptable means of post school education. In Scotland today, too many young people feel far too pressurised to go to university because we persist in our schools in channelling too many of our young people through a traditional academic curriculum which sets university and college on a higher and more socially acceptable level than any other non college or non university based education. That, Ladies and Gentlemen, is wrong, and that is why we need to accelerate the pace of developing top quality, formal vocational training and apprenticeships at an earlier age, and why we need much greater flexibility within the examination system. For example, why should we assume that pupils with a group of top class Advanced Highers necessarily must begin a university course in the first year rather than go in to second year and why should we not allow greater variation in the length of degree courses in Scotland? Not only is this flexibility educationally the right thing to do, but it could, we believe, also be more financially efficient. Ladies and Gentlemen, I have, I hope set the scene. We are enormously grateful to all our speakers today and to all of you for joining on us on a day when hopefully we can move this debate forward.
MSP praises Perth Grammar School for sporting success
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has praised Perth Grammar School pupils and staff for the sporting success which they have recently enjoyed and for the new Sport Trust initiative which has been established to provide a framework to develop links with local schools and clubs. The Mid Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP visited the school on Friday with local Conservative Councillor, Heather Stewart and Perth City South Councillor Alexander Stewart Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "I would like to congratulate all the pupils and staff at Perth Grammar School for the sporting success they have enjoyed in recent times. It is very encouraging to see the success of new initiatives such as the Sports Trust in getting more pupils involved in physical education and engaging with parents and the local community. I was greatly impressed with the new facilities and to learn about the innovative Sports Trust which the Grammar School has established alongside local feeder schools to help keep youngsters active, and provide a framework for more gifted pupils to develop their talents by linking up to local clubs.” Cllr Heather Stewart, Conservative Councillor for Perth City Centre said: “Perth Grammar School has established important links to the local community and I was greatly impressed with the new links which the Grammar School has established with feeder schools such as North Muirton Primary to help make the transition from primary school to secondary school easier for pupils.” Cllr Alexander Stewart, Leader of the Conservative Group on Perth & Kinross Council said: “Perth & Kinross Council supported the establishment of Perth Grammar School Sports Trust and it is a great example of how a school can fully engage its pupils and help them develop wider understanding of their local community.”
GENEROUS PRAISE FOR FREUCHIE CRICKET CLUB FROM MSP
Mid Scotland and Fife Conservative MSP, Liz Smith, has paid glowing tribute to Freuchie Cricket Club for its outstanding contribution to Scottish cricket. On a weekend which will see the club celebrate the 25th anniversary of its famous win at Lords in the National Village Championship Trophy, the MSP has said that Freuchie is a perfect example of all that is best in village cricket and she has particularly highlighted the work undertaken by the club in support of young people learning the game. The MSP, who is a former cricket internationalist as well as an experienced coach, will be attending the celebrations, one part of which will involve local school-children  planting a tree to represent each one of the members of the Freuchie X1 including the two travelling reserves who lifted the famous trophy on 1st September 1985. Liz Smith Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “Winning the National Village Championship Trophy was a remarkable achievement by anyone’s standards and something we should continue to celebrate 25 years on, not least because of the extraordinary contribution the Fife club has continued to make to club cricket in Scotland. This weekend’s events on 4th and 5th September, culminating in the 20:20 match against local neighbours Falkland CC, will bring together not just the triumphant members of the 1985 XI which took Lords by storm but also the whole community of Freuchie which has done so much to enhance the spirit of the game. Over the years, I have been most impressed by the extraordinary enthusiasm which is apparent within everything to do with Freuchie CC, both on and off the field, and I particularly congratulate the club members, playing and non-playing, on the support they have given to young people as they learn the game. Cricket is the fastest growing sport in Scotland just now and it is vitally important that young people are made to feel welcome at every level of the game. The Freuchie community is a model for Scottish cricket and I wish the Club every success on the anniversary of its Lords success.”
Views now sought on pharmacy plans
Auchterarder residents are being urged to have their say on plans to open a new pharmacy in the town’s High Street. Tayside NHS Board has received another application following the rejection of previous plans by an appeal panel in May. As part of the process, residents are being invited to take part in a consultation process on the merits of opening a new pharmacy.  Local Elizabeth Smith MSP says the community should have its say if they wish to see additional services in the town.  “I have had many letters in my mail bag and people in Auchterarder have spoken to me about this issue.” Miss Smith said. " The point that several people who live in the area have made is that the population of Auchterarder and the surrounding district is similar to that of Crieff.  With the medical centres in both Crieff and Auchterarder covering a similar amount of patients and with Crieff supporting four thriving Chemist shops, why can’t Auchterarder have just one more?”
Perth flooding
Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid-Scotland & Fife, has praised the emergency services for their work during the flooding which hit Perth on Wednesday morning Liz said:  “I would like to pay tribute to the emergency services and council representatives who worked to assist those affected by the flooding which has hit Perth.  In my capacity as MSP for the area, I stand ready to do everything I can to assist those residents who have been affected.”
MSP welcomes UK Government multi-million pound investment in creative industries
Commenting on the news that the UK Government has announced the launch today of a novel multi-million pound investment project to be run by Abertay University. Liz said: “This is very welcome news for the creative industries in Scotland and has the potential to create hundreds of new jobs. Today’s announcement demonstrates the new Conservative UK Government’s commitment to help grow the creative industries in Scotland by investing in fledgling companies to help support them in developing and creating the jobs of the future.”
MSP concern for future of PRI
Mid Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP, Liz Smith has written to Cabinet Secretary for Health, Nicola Sturgeon following news that patient emergency surgery is to be cut during certain hours at Perth Royal Infirmary. Under the plans no weekend surgery will be available between 6pm on Friday – 8am Monday. Liz said: "I am very concerned that patient emergency surgery is being cut during certain hours at Perth Royal Infirmary. In particular, there are concerns about the adequate cover for rural communities, many of which have already seen reductions in ambulance services and GP cover. I have today written to Cabinet Secretary for Health, Nicola Sturgeon MSP asking for guarantees that patient care will be safeguarded. I fully appreciate budgetary constraints are an important issue within NHS services but emergency services are surely a frontline priority, and as such protected.  I will be seeking assurances from the SNP Scottish Government and NHS Tayside that no decisions will be taken which will seriously undermine patient care. PRI has faced the threat of reduced services in the past including the threat of losing the maternity unit. I, along with Conservative colleagues, will fight any moves which threaten the future of PRI.”
Perth jobs blow as Clachan Construction Ltd goes into receivership
Commenting on the announcement that Clachan Construction Ltd has gone into receivership, Mid Scotland & Fife Conservative MSPs Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith have called on the SNP Scottish Government to make PACE services available to help those who face losing their jobs.  Murdo Fraser, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife: “The news that Clachan Construction Ltd has gone into receivership, putting 200 jobs under threat will be a huge blow to the local economy in Perthshire.  Perthshire is paying a heavy price for Labour's recession. With people being made unemployed each week, help is needed now for the unemployed and hard-pressed employers across Scotland.  The loss of 200 jobs is huge blow to the jobs market and today I along with my colleague Elizabeth Smith have contacted SNP Ministers to ask for PACE (Partnership Action for Continuing Employment) to be sent in to help respond to redundancy situation. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “At the time when Perth City has got so much to celebrate we must not forget the reality of the difficulties facing the local economy.   I hope that the Scottish Government will do all it can to offer what help and support it can to assist the company which, amongst so many other things has done a great deal to support young apprentices as they set out in the world of work.  We need to do everything possible to support Perthshire jobs and it is vital that partner organisations identify training and employment opportunities for those employees affected.”
Perthshire roads labelled most dangerous in Britain
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called on the Scottish Government to target resources to address road safety issues on local roads. A report published by the Road Safety Foundation, says Scotland has the highest risk highways, with the report listing the A822 between Gilmerton, near Crieff and the A823 Muckhart – Auchterarder as being high-risk. Liz said:  “I have highlighted on many occasions in the past the need for urgent investment to improve road safety on local roads. Perthshire has some of Scotland’s deadliest roads. I agree with the report recommendations that the SNP Scottish Government should use the information in this survey to target resources at the worst locations and routes.  Scottish Conservatives have for a number for years been calling for the establishment of a ‘black spot fund’ to resource the upgrade of dangerous junctions and stretches of road and I will continue to pressure SNP Ministers to take action to improve road safety.”
MSP calls for Olympic torch to come to Perth
Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called for the 2012 Olympic torch to come to Perth when it travels around the UK. In a letter to the Chair of the Olympic Organising Committee, Lord Sebastian Coe, and Secretary of State for Culture, Olympics, Media and Sport, Jeremy Hunt MP, Ms Smith stated the case for Perthshire and Kinross-shire to play a part in the Olympic torch’s tour and asked for consideration to be given to the torch visiting Perth. Elizabeth said:   "The fact that the Olympics are coming to the United Kingdom makes us all very proud and we must all work together to make this the best Olympics ever. I believe it is important for all of the nations which make up the UK to enjoy the games and I personally would like to see the Olympic torch come to Perth. Perth will also be bidding for city status in 2012 as well as celebrating the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, it would therefore be very welcome also to see the Olympic torch coming to Perth in 2012 which will be a year to remember and which will build on the success of Perth 800. It is important that this becomes Britain's Olympic Games and not just London's. Scotland must share in this achievement and the Olympic torch coming to our area would be a true representation of this. The Commonwealth Games in 2014 and the Olympic Games in 2012 are going to provide a sporting period for the United Kingdom and Scotland. It is crucial that local people, especially local school children from Perthshire and Kinross-shire, share in that experience."
MSP welcomes Kinross Camera Club to Holyrood
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife welcomed members of Kinross Camera Club to the Scottish Parliament on Tuesday (15th June) evening for a tour of the Holyrood Parliament and a question and answer session.
Local MSP looks to Armed Forces Day and steps up Badge Campaign
Ahead of Armed Forces Day on Saturday 26 June, Mid Scotland & Fife MSP Liz Smith has stepped up her campaign to ensure that all of her constituents who have ever served in the armed forces receive their Veterans Badge in recognition of their service. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "Armed Forces Day 2010 promises to be a day to remember in Perth. The event will be a chance for us to show our support to the brave service men and women, with past present and future troops being honoured. Those who have lost their lives in conflict will also be remembered.  Armed Forces Day is an important day to mark the vital contributions that veterans have made over their careers, often serving in difficult theatres around the world.  The day is an annual opportunity for the nation to Show Your Support for the men and women who make up the Armed Forces community: from currently serving troops to Service families, and from veterans to cadets. Perth is set to host the biggest Scottish military parade of 2010 as part of the spectacular Perth Day celebrations on Friday 2 July. When the Veteran's Badge was first introduced, applications were restricted to those who had served in particular years. However, the Ministry of Defence has now opened up the badges to every man and woman who has ever served in the UK armed forces and I hope that those veterans who have not already applied will do so now. If anyone feels that they might qualify and would like to make an enquiry, they are welcome to contact my office."
Smith welcomes UK Government’s broadband commitment
Mid Scotland & Fife MSP Liz Smith has welcomed the UK Government’s announcement this week on broadband. Culture Secretary Jeremy Hunt MP yesterday announced that delivering higher speed broadband connections to rural areas would be a priority for the new Coalition Government, and that £300m would be invested by the end of this Parliament. Commenting on the news, Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “I am very pleased that the new government is committed to improving broadband access in rural areas. It is important that government does not allow a “digital divide” to open up between the facilities available to residents in urban and rural areas and this announcement shows that the new coalition is determined not to leave rural areas like Perthshire & Kinross-shire in the broadband slow-lane.  With more and more services these days being reliant on a fast and reliable internet connection, broadband is becoming increasingly important in our society. It is shocking that three million households in the UK cannot access decent broadband. However, many people in Perthshire & Kinross-shire will not be surprised at this figure, given that many of our communities have experienced this problem first hand. This is great news for these communities and many others across the country. I am delighted that the new Government has recognised the importance of this issue.”
MSP welcomes support for Scottish Mountain Rescue Services
The Scottish Government is to make £300,000 available for mountain rescue services in Scotland this year, and fund a new project manager post at the Mountain Rescue Committee of Scotland. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "Scottish Mountain Rescue Services are sadly often overlooked. I therefore welcome the resources which will be made available to help develop its specialist training and rescue service potential. I have highlighted the dedication of the members of Scotland's Mountain Rescue teams which are made up of volunteers who are on call 24 hours a day, 365 days a year. The poor weather conditions and increased snow levels which we have seen this year has put additional pressures on Mountain Rescue teams across Scotland. It is therefore welcome that the Scottish Government has recognised these increased pressures which the Mountain Rescue teams and the Avalanche Information Service have faced.  It is important to take a much more co-ordinated approach and bring together all our rescue services, it is therefore welcome that a new project manager post at the Mountain Rescue Committee of Scotland will be put in place."
Tories call on SNP to act on drugs in Scottish prisons
Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called on the SNP Scottish Government to develop a zero tolerance policy to the supply of drugs into Scottish prisons. The call comes following Justice Questions in the Scottish Parliament where it was revealed that since 1999, three prison officers were suspected of supplying drugs to prisoners. Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "Scottish prison officers do a very difficult job in a challenging environment. Sadly, however, the supply of drugs in Scottish prisons remains a serious issue which urgently needs to be addressed. Recent research by the Policy Exchange has found that in England and Wales, 85% of prisoners said they could get drugs if they wanted. And half said drugs were easily available. In Scotland 22% of prisoners surveyed in 2009 said that they used drugs while in prison. The fact that the SNP Scottish Government are not recording this information separately is concerning and must change so that we know what is going on in Scottish prisons. It is time for the SNP Scottish Government to investigate the supply of drugs into Scottish prisons and develop a zero tolerance approach to the potential for prison officers who may be involved in supplying drugs to prisoners."
Young Cricketers
Ardvreck School in Crieff was delighted to welcome Elizabeth Smith MSP, to help with some cricket coaching.  As a former Scottish Cricket International, she inspired the boys as they prepared for their next fixture.  Elizabeth has kindly agreed to come and coach throughout the rest of this term and the school greatly values her giving up so much of her valuable time.
Campaign Heating up!
In the three way marginal of Ochil and South Perthshire where the bookies have Labour at 3:1 and the Conservatives at 7:2 the campaign is heating up.   The BBC Radio Scotland programme, live from Alloa Town Hall, saw Labour candidate Gordon Banks on the ropes over claiming he had sent out press releases supporting keeping the public toilets open in Alloa Town Centre.  Campaigners produced a letter showing he did NOT support their campaign.  The letter read as follows and was signed Gordon Banks.   “ I can understand your concern, but my understanding is, the decision by the Council was taken as a moneysaving exercise which will save Clackmannanshire Council tens of thousands of pounds per year”   Conservative Candidate Gerald Michaluk said: “This is typical of Gordon. He did the same over the Post Office Closures, which have affected so many in rural areas of Ochil and South Perthshire, where he allegedly voted at Westminster to close the Post Offices and then campaigned locally to keep them open”.   Meanwhile, Annabel Ewing was struggling when asked where her party was going to make savings.  She talked about savings of £100bn from cancelling the Trident Programme but when pressed on how much that would save on this and next year’s budget had no answer. It is now public knowledge that there would in fact be no savings until 2014.   Gerald Michaluk commented,  “The Conservatives have pledged to cut the number of MPs by 10%, cutting the cost of politics by £100 million by abolishing a range of MPs allowances and subsidies, while the Cabinet will take a 5% pay cut and then freeze their salary for the duration of the parliament.  I, and all Conservative Candidates, have signed up to publish our expenses on line.    My own view on expenses is they should simply be capped based on distance and constituency size, and be subjected to the same rules that apply to any business in the UK and answerable to the Inland Revenue the same as you or me.  There should be only one set of rules applied equally to the public, business and the politicians. Politicians should not have a separate set of rules”.   With less than a week to go, this three way marginal has everything to play for.
Nationalism versus Patriotism
Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire says: “The Nats have been giving out the Saltire implying that the Scottish flag represents their party, this is not the case.  I am a Patriot but definitely NOT a Nationalist.  The Scottish flag is my flag and the flag of my Country - and should not be hijacked for political ends.    On Sunday night, during the Scottish debate between the leaders of the main parties, it was disgraceful of Alex Salmond, like all nationalist parties, to blame someone else for all the troubles of the country.  Alex Salmond clearly sees England to blame for Scotland’s problems and by classifying its citizens as “immigrants” in their own country, the United Kingdom, is provocative and should be condemned, and his party punished at the polls on Thursday.   If you have a relative working in another part of the UK do you want them regarded as an immigrant in their own country?  If you are from another part of the UK do you consider yourself an immigrant in Scotland? I have always found that Scotsmen in England are always made very welcome.  It is time to put an end to this dangerous Nationalist rhetoric by voting Conservative on Thursday.   Salmond is trying to divide the nation at a time of economic crisis and returning Nationalist MPs to the British Parliament is not going to constructively help this country get out of Gordon Brown’s economic mess."
Tory support for Muthill’s            Low Carbon Community Project
Tory Westminster Candidate for Ochil and South Perthshire, Gerald Michaluk, and Tory Strathallan By-Election Candidate, John Blackie, have praised Muthill’s Low Carbon Community Project which is being funded by the Climate Challenge Fund. Following a visit to the Project where they were accompanied by Cllr Murray Lyle and Elizabeth Smith MSP, Mr Michaluk said:  “This is a very exciting project which will deliver very practical help for the local community when it comes to reducing fuel bills and our carbon footprint. I am most impressed by the work being done to encourage young people to play their part in this project and by the new incentives for local people to grow their own fruit and vegetables.”  John Blackie said:  “It is very fitting that this project should be taking place in Muthill – a village which is already very well known for its very strong community spirit demonstrated by its recent awards in events such as Scotland in Bloom and the planned recycling project which is being run by the Muthill 42nd Scout Group.”
Perthshire Conservatives congratulate COBRA campaigners
On the eve of the COBRA campaigners presenting their case to Holyrood's Petitions Committee, Perthshire Conservatives have congratulated the campaigners on the important contribution they have made to the strategic transport debate in Southern Perthshire.   Speaking ahead of attending the Petitions Committee's deliberations on Tuesday 20th April, Elizabeth Smith MSP said:   "I am delighted to offer my support to the COBRA campaigners as they bring their petition to Holyrood. The debate about the long term strategic transport planning for southern Perthshire is extremely important and COBRA has done much to enhance public knowledge about that debate and to present a well thought-out plan when there will be tight restrictions on public spending for some time to come. I will be attending the Petitions Committee on Tuesday and will listen carefully as the social, economic and environmental advantages are spelt out by COBRA representatives."   Westminster Candidate, Gerald Michaluk, added his congratulations to the COBRA campaigners:   "Since 2002, COBRA members have worked extremely hard to press their case. Most importantly, they have engaged the local community and carried out a very effective and democratic consultation exercise which has won them many admirers across the area and it is very good to see that they will now have the opportunity at Holyrood to debate the case further. An integrated transport network is vital if we are to save costs in the future and ensure that there is the best possible access for people who need to travel both into and out of the Strathallan area on a regular basis."   John Blackie, Conservative by-election Candidate in the Strathallan Ward said:   "As a local resident of Auchterarder, I responded very positively to the COBRA campaign survey and, having spoken to many residents across Strathallan in this by-election campaign, I know they are impressed by the work carried out by COBRA and by the fact that the campaigners were awarded a grant from the Climate Challenge Fund. How to cut greenhouse gas emissions in our transport sector is an important part of the overall transport debate as is how best to serve a growing population in Strathallan and a growing tourist and sporting industry."
HOLYROOD SALUTE CADET MOVEMENT
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife hosted Cadet from across Scotland at the Scottish Parliament to celebrating the 150th anniversary of the Armed Forces’ Cadet Movement. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife who sponsored the parliamentary debate said: “The greatest strength of the cadet movement is the many volunteers and cadet instructors who provide both experience and specialist skills to develop the talents of the cadets. Without their support given selflessly and with unrelenting enthusiasm, the Cadet Force will have great difficulty in supporting young people”. Murdo Fraser, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife said: “The central aim of the cadet movement is to promote citizenship and team-building, providing youngsters with a real sense of achievement.  I cannot commend the movement enough and I would like to take this opportunity to thank all the volunteers involved with the cadet movement that make it work so well and who give up their time for our youngsters." Col Martin Passmore, Commandant Black watch ACF said: "This is clearly an important milestone for new cadets in Scotland and I am delighted that all the cadet forces have come together for this important event”. Cadet RSM Ross Brown of Black watch ACF said: “Taking part has given me so many transferable skills I can use in my life-both for work and for university. It’s a great organisation, I would recommend anyone to join!” Gerald Michaluk Westminster Candidate who is a trainer for the Air Cadets said: "The Armed Forces Cadet movement is a fantastic organisation.  It gives me a tremendous amount of satisfaction being involved with the Air Cadets and it gives them a temendous sense of belonging and techical skills."
New Low for Business Start-ups in Perth and Kinross
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has expressed her concern at figures released by the Committee of Scottish Clearing Bankers (CSCB) that show that fewer new businesses have started up in Perth & Kinross in the year ending 2009 than in 2008. The CSCB figures show there were 655 new businesses in Scottish Banks in Perth & Kinross in 2008. This is compared to 518 new businesses started throughout 2009. See attachment for full figures. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "The figures for business start ups show that the number of new business in Perth & Kinross has decreased by 21%. Fewer business start-ups in our area is bad news for the local economy in the long term.  Although disappointing, it demonstrates how right the Scottish Conservatives were to focus on accelerating the policy to cut business rates for small businesses in Scotland. We pushed for business rates cuts in the face of opposition from Labour and Liberal Democrat MSPs. Conservatives want to see the local economy flourish and that means extra money in people’s pockets and more and better-paid jobs.  Conservatives will provide tax cuts for new jobs with a £2.6bn package of tax breaks to get people into work, funded by money that would otherwise go on unemployment benefit. We will cut the main rate of corporation tax to 25p and the small companies' rate to 20p, paid for by scrapping complex reliefs and allowances. We will give small and medium-sized businesses a six-month VAT holiday, funded by a 7.5% interest rate on delayed payments. We will also cut National Insurance by 1% for six months for firms with fewer than five employees, paid for from the above changes to the company tax regime."   Gerald Michaluk, Conservative MP Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire said:   "We need to promote Perth & Kinross as a great place to live, work and do business. I believe that red tape must be cut and we must see an end to unnecessary bureaucracy. There are many willing and budding entrepreneurs in Perthshire and Kinross-shire but they need incentives to get their business going."
Time for radical change within schools management in Scotland by Elizabeth Smith MSP
Education in Scotland was once renowned for its quality. I believe it can be again, but not if we continue to pretend that all is well with the current structure of school management and we continue to resist the need for change. The facts speak for themselves: Since 1999, Scottish Governments have doubled spending on our schools yet the overall standards of attainment have been flat-lining and, in some cases, actually declining.  A staggering 13,000 pupils leave school each year are unable to read or write properly  Only 30% of pupils in S2 are reaching the required standard in maths despite that figure being 85% in P3  Scottish pupils are now ranked below the global average in maths and science  And only two weeks ago, the Scottish Government’s latest statistics revealed that two thirds of S2 pupils are struggling with literacy. This situation is just not acceptable. It is not acceptable to parents, to teachers or to pupils, all of whom know we should be doing very much better. And it is not acceptable to the Scottish Conservative Party which is why we believe it is time for radical change. Many communities across Scotland are fortunate to have an excellent state school on their doorstep but far too many do not. In too many areas, particularly in some of our most disadvantaged communities, schools are under-performing because the present system provides them with too little incentive for improvement. All communities in Scotland should have access to a good state school. Social and economic background should be no barrier, nor should an arbitrary catchment area or parental income levels. But nothing will change if the SNP, Labour and Lib Dem coalition of the left continue to be obsessed with a one-size-fits-all policy for our local authorities. These parties’ long standing love affair with comprehensive education confuses the principles of equality of opportunity with uniformity and it stifles any moves towards a more flexible and efficient system which is better suited to the needs of individual schools, and which allows maximum parental choice. It has also created false tensions between the pursuit of social justice and the pursuit of excellence and, as such, politicians have become the controlling factor in our schools when it should be head teachers and parents. The Scottish Conservatives believe the evidence clearly shows too many school-children in Scotland are not getting the education they deserve. We need radical change. If we want standards to go up, we must follow Sweden’s example and break the current monopoly the state has over the provision of education, give teachers more control and give parents more choice. We need to take power away from the politicians and start trusting teachers and head-teachers. This can be achieved by allowing the provision of new, independently run free schools which can compete with the existing local authority schools. These schools would remain state funded and would not be allowed to charge fees or to become selective. They would remain subject to the same, very rigorous HMIe and Care Commission inspection processes which exist just now for all schools. In some cases, they could be run by educational charities, not for profit trusts or by other philanthropic bodies. There would also be scope for local authorities to transfer a school or a cluster of schools to an educational trust; something on the lines of what has been suggested by, interestingly enough, an SNP councillor in East Lothian. For the Scottish Conservatives, the message is clear; if more parents want the right to choose from different types of schools they should have it and they should be able to take their child out of a poorly performing school and transfer him/her to another school where standards are better. No longer should they be dictated to by one size fits all and arbitrary post codes which are so unreflective of demand. And recently, we have seen an increase in the number of parents wanting to exercise the right to choose their child’s school. In the context of the Scottish Government’s class size policy, which has been a spectacular failure precisely because of the obsession with a one-size-fits-all agenda, a growing number of parents have felt the need to go to court to exercise their right to choose different types of school and in the overwhelming majority of cases that right has been upheld. They should not be put in that situation. Before Christmas, I wrote to the Convenor of the Education, Lifelong Learning and Culture Committee to suggest that part of the Committee’s 2010 work programme should be an examination of the school structure in Scotland and how we can address the current failings. On 3rd February that request was unanimously agreed to and I am pleased that the Cabinet Secretary is also acceding to Scottish Conservative requests to debate this whole issue. And so he should be given the comments in his book “Grasping the Thistle” in which he says very firmly that “choice and diversity are the hallmarks of a mature and confident society” and more recently, in the Scottish Parliament, when he said he was open to new ideas about trust schools. Yet these pronouncements have been met only by silence from Alex Salmond and the rest of the Scottish Cabinet – hardly a sign that they are about to receive a ringing endorsement. But as a party, we are determined to take the lead. The polls in Scotland are consistently showing that the SNP is failing to deliver on public services. Annabel Goldie, on the other hand, has consistently argued the need for reform so that our public services can respond more effectively to the needs of the people of Scotland and in education that means responding to the needs of parents and pupils. For us, we believe there are lessons to be learnt from our European partners and in particular Sweden. In Sweden, parents have the freedom to choose between different providers within the state sector rather than be told what they must do; the aim is to provide a good education for everyone, not just some; and in terms of raising attainment levels, it is about driving up standards rather than being content with the lowest common denominator. In Sweden, it took 8 years to convince a sceptical public that the new freedoms within the state sector could work. But they did, and now no-one, including those on the left of the political spectrum, want to go back to the old system, such is the conviction that what they have now is so much better in terms of raising overall standards, and that is true not only for the new schools but also for the existing state schools. Indeed, many teachers in Sweden liked the new system because it gave them so much more flexibility and scope to concentrate on raising standards in the classroom rather than filling in unnecessary paperwork – the same flexibility which is supposed to be at the core of the new Curriculum for Excellence. With the introduction of new providers in Sweden, 10% of pupils attend the free state schools and in upper secondary it is nearly 20%. When it comes to the merit value of schools in Sweden, the average attainment level was 206 points but in the free schools it was 226 points. However, what is important is that as well as standards rising in the free schools so too did standards in the existing schools and for me, that is worth emphasising again as a key point; something that was highlighted by the Swedish National Board of Education which said that standards improved across the board because the existing schools needed to compete with the new free schools if they were not to lose pupils. This is a model which the Scottish Conservatives believe can work well in Scotland because it strikes the right balance between supporting the many good schools across Scotland where parents are very satisfied with the education their children are receiving and improving those schools which are consistently under-performing and where parents are not satisfied. I understand the Cabinet Secretary will be winging his way to Sweden this very weekend to see just how successful this system, and good for him, although the Cabinet Secretary would do well to jump on a train to Jordanhill to remind himself of just how well that school has done with similar freedom. How much more evidence and how many more children need to be let down before the SNP, Labour and the Liberals realise that Scottish education needs to be brought up to date so that we can keep pace with other developed countries? Doing nothing is not an option. The evidence that radical change is required is compelling as is the demand from parents and teachers that we need to deliver higher standards across the board. We need to ensure that reform extends parental choice, devolves more power to head-teachers and provides far more freedom within the state sector. If we don’t, the educational futures of too many young people are at stake.
Parliament to debate property factors issues
Mid Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP, Liz Smith will today lend her support to the consultation stages of the Property Factors (Scotland) Bill being introduced to the Scottish Parliament by Patricia Ferguson MSP. The bill, which will debate whether there should be an mandatory register of property factors and how to improve the process of dispute resolution between homeowners and property factors, requires cross party support to proceed at Holyrood. Liz Smith MSP said she is happy to provide that support from the Scottish Conservatives on the basis of representations made to her from groups in both Bridge of Earn and Perth City. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "This bill represents an important debate about how we can improve the accreditation process of property factors and provide greater quality assurances of services provided to owners and residents. While the majority of factors do a first class job, there are too many who do not and it is currently very difficult to weed them out of the system. Title deeds can be very complex, especially when they relate to some older properties, and this often means that owners and residents are unsure of their rights and responsibilities. In some cases, and particularly where some vulnerable groups are concerned, factors take advantage of this confusion and do not uphold the highest standards of service. We urgently need to address that situation and to ensure there is greater choice for owners and residents and greater facility for them to see exactly how their money is being spent. The relationship between the property manager and the owners in a shared property is defined by complex legislation, property deeds and agreements and this often means many consumers do not understand their rights and obligations. Likewise, consumers often fail to understand the processes involved in switching and should they wish to pursue complaints there is an absence of a effective mechanism which in turn allows dishonest factors to play the system even more. We also note the calls to set down the minimum requirements for best practice so that any complaints which are investigated can be done so against clear standards. Scottish Conservatives will support measures which increase consumer choice, provide a level-playing field of quality assurance and measures which will weed out the bad factor."
Comrie Probus Beats the Snow
Comrie Probus, in spite of the very heavy snow fall last week, met and were entertained by Gerald Michaluk the Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire, who is also a brewer.   Gerald entertained the group by talking about his time running the UK's eighth largest strategic marketing consultancy, how he decided to enter politics, before telling them how he came to purchase the Isle of Arran Brewery and the fun and adventures he has had with returning it's premium brand 'Arran Blonde' to the supermarkets and firmly establishing it as one of Scotland's top selling real ales.   Hamish Fleming, on behalf of the group, thanked Gerald for coming and Gerald was able to supply everyone with a sample of Arran Brewery's product to take home.
MSP urges solution to pot-hole problem
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called on Perth & Kinross Council and the Scottish Government to look at new technology which could provide a long term solution to the pot-hole problems on local roads. Manufacturers of the new technology claim it can repair pot holes in around five minutes, at a cost of only £60. This could represent a significant cost saving over the long term. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “Anyone who drives a car will be very aware of the number of pot holes on our roads, particularly after the recent spell of cold weather. According to one recent estimate, there are around 1.6 million new potholes in Britain as a result of the winter freeze.  Although the number of pot holes are not the fault of the council, it is important that they work hard to fix them as quickly as possible in order to minimise damage to vehicles and accidents.  I understand that a number of local authorities in Britain are trialling these new vehicles, which have the potential to offer significant cost savings over the long term. It would also mean pot holes could be repaired more quickly, resulting in less damage to vehicles and fewer insurance claims.  Potholes are a major problem for drivers and this new technology may offer a cost effective solution to the council. I am urging them to look into whether these machines would be utilised in Perth & Kinross.”
Tories call on Parliament to lend support to Perth’s bid to gain formal city status
Speaking in this evenings Members Debate in the Scottish Parliament on Perth 800 - a year-long programme of events and activities to celebrate this anniversary. Mid Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP's Murdo Fraser & Liz Smith have called on the Scottish Parliament to lend support to Perth’s bid to gain formal city status. Murdo Fraser, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "In 1210 King William the Lion granted the Royal charter to Perth. The charter declared some of the privileges which Perth could now enjoy and stated various regulations for trade within the sheriffdom. Although there is evidence elsewhere which confirms that Perth was a royal burgh from the 1120s, the 1210 charter is the earliest surviving document detailing the Royal charter awarded to the ‘Fair City’. It is this anniversary which Perth will celebrate this year, with  Perth 800, a series of events designed to remember Perth’s prestigious past, and to recognise its status as one of the best and most vibrant places to live, work and visit, in Scotland today. I would pay tribute to Perth & Kinross Council who have put together a programme of activities for this year. The overall purpose of the Perth 800 event is the celebrate the 800th anniversary the Royal charter in 1210, but the year-long programme also has other ambitious aims. Perth 800 hopes to develop a sense of civic pride amongst its residents, by engaging the local community with Perth’s past and present. The event seeks to enhance the  profile of Perth both nationally and internationally, and to encourage the growth of the local economy by promoting Perth as tourists destination, but Perth 800 also aims to entice businesses and academic institutions to the local area. With over 100 events, designed to showcase Perth’s culture, sport, heritage and its burgeoning economy, Perth 800 has something for everyone to enjoy, old and young, locals and visitors. Events include: Skin & Bone: Life & Death in Medieval Perth Exhibition, The Perth Festival of Arts, and the first Geocaching Mega event, a high –tech treasure hunt, to take place in Scotland. There will also be a mini-Olympics with competitors from the towns of Aschaffenburg, Germany and Cognac, France, with which Perth is twinned. Events will include Badminton, swimming, football and gymnastics. Perth 800 has encouraged local business to become involved in the celebrations. The development of the Perth 800 brand is growing in popularity amongst local organisations, businesses and manufacturers who are enjoying the promotional opportunities provided by the celebration. Overall, Perth 800 will build the perfect foundation from which Perth can launch its campaign to gain formal city status, a campaign ably led by the Provost and the Lord Lieutenant for the county, Brigadier Mel Jamieson. The campaign hopes that we can achieve this in 2010 for our 800th anniversary, failing which we have a second bite at the cherry in 2012 at the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee, when Lord Mandelson has already announced that there will be a competition for a new city to be created. Many local people are surprised to learn that the Fair City is not officially a city at all.  When I raised this issue back in 2005 I was even accused by some local politicians of ‘talking Perth down’.  Fortunately these sceptics have been won over and we now have a true cross-party consensus in favour of gaining official city status for Perth. Why should Perth aim to attain that status?  For a start, we only have to look at Perth’s role in Scottish history. In an age when the capital was determined by where the King held court, Perth was the nominal capital of Scotland. James I spent much of his time at Perth. Of his sixteen parliaments, thirteen were held there, only one parliament was held in Edinburgh. James enjoyed the accommodation at the Abbey of Blackfriars in Perth, commenting that it was also a good place for a game of tennis, unfortunately, it also proved to be a good place for his assassination in 1437. The only time that James VI returned to Scotland after his crowning as king of both England and Scotland was to Perth in1617. The last coronation of a British monarch to take place outside Westminster was that of Charles II in 1651 at Scone, the crown being placed on his head by the Marquis of Argyll. As well as acknowledging the historical significance of Perth, the award of city status would recognise Perth has one of the leading places in Scotland, for business, culture and sport.  Historically, Perth had an important role in commerce, as an inland port and with the lowest crossing point of the River Tay, Perth was exceeded only by Berwick-Upon-Tweed in trade, and today Perth continues to have a role as a European trading port. Perth is renowned for its gardens and parks. In 2008 it was the gold medal winner of the ‘Britain in Bloom’ competition, and in recent years has achieved awards in the Beautiful Scotland competition. Perth was also the first Scottish town to join the Cittaslow movement in March 2007, joining an international network of over 100 towns and cities. The Cittaslow programme, through supporting local businesses, and protecting and conversing the environment and historic buildings, is dedicated to enhancing the quality of life for residents and visitors. Perth wants to join the exclusive club of Scotland’s six cities. The prestige that comes from being awarded city status, will help to boost tourism in Perth, and as a city it would benefit from the same targeted campaigns by the government and VisitScotland that currently promote Scotland’s six cities. The campaign for city status has had great support from the local media, including the Perthshire Advertiser and Perth FM, and the Courier has produced car stickers for locals to display their backing. I ask that Parliament lends its support to Perth’s bid to gain formal city status, either this year for Perth 800, or as part of the Queen’s Diamond Jubilee celebrations in 2012.  It is long overdue." Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "In the world of politics it is not easy to find issues which bring politicians together rather than divide them but this is surely one. There is every sign that Perth 800 has already done much to unite not just the people of the City of Perth but those who live in the closer local communities and many of the businesses and institutions which make up the fabric of Perth and Kinross. Members will not be surprised to hear that I believe that Perthshire is one of the best places in which to live in Scotland - indeed in the United Kingdom. Perth 800 presents an opportunity to not only celebrate the 800th anniversary of the granting of the Royal Burgh Charter to Perth by King William the Lion of Scotland in 1210, but also the chance to celebrate and promote the long and distinguished traditions which the City can boast when it comes to its local heritage, sport, arts and culture, and Murdo Fraser has already mentioned several of the 100 or so exciting events which will be held throughout Perth and Kinross during 2010: something for young and old alike. While events such as the Johnnie Walker Golf Championship at Gleneagles will add its usual international glamour and hopefully the much needed boost to tourism and local business, I would particularly like to congratulate the Perth 800 team for its work to provide an extensive grassroots sports programme, including the Perthshire Festival of Rugby, the Scottish Orienteering Championships and the Perth Mini Olympics. And for those who prefer a slightly more sedate sport, there is also the International Grand Master Simultaneous Display.  As a sports enthusiast, and someone who has a strong interest in encouraging young people to become involved in sport, these events have particular importance and I am sure they will do much to inspire wider participation in sport and enjoyment of the outdoors. But I also believe it that one of the most encouraging aspects of the planning stages of Perth 800 has been the enthusiasm of so many local businesses, from the size of the one man business in Perth High Street right through to a very large company like Scottish and Southern Energy playing their part in stimulating the local economy. That way, we have been able to ensure that Perth 800 can engage with every part of the community whether in Perth City itself or in its hinterlands. That has clearly helped to encourage a sense of civic pride, as well as enhance the national and international profile of Perth and Kinross. As Murdo Fraser has mentioned. Perth 800 also presents the opportunity to progress Perth’s bid to gain official city status. I believe that city status presents the opportunity to bring major benefits to the area by growing the areas potential to market the area as the premier city in Scotland for business, education, art, culture and sport as well as putting Perth on the map as Scotland's Seventh City. So to conclude, I hope that Perth 800 will prove to be a great success; all signs already point towards a very positive start to the programme and that is welcome in what have been a difficult economic time to plan such a wide ranging programme of events. As we look towards what will be the legacy from Perth 800 I hope that we can also rejoice in a successful bid to regain official city status and restore Perth to her rightful place at the heart of Scotland."
MSP praises work and commitment of Perthshire WRVS volunteers
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has praised the work and commitment of Perthshire WRVS volunteers Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "WRVS is one of the UK's largest voluntary services dedicated to tackling social isolation or deprivation in communities throughout the United Kingdom. It’s worth reflecting that over 10,000 WRVS volunteers support older people across Scotland. We owe a great debt to all the WRVS volunteers for their invaluable work and commitment. I believe more still needs to be done to address many of the issue surrounding services and support for the elderly in our society and more clearly needs to be done to bring together both government agencies and voluntary organisations to develop a coherent strategy that not only helps to support elderly residents living alone in Scotland from living in isolation, but which goes further to help improve their quality of living and access to services."
Perth 800 bid comes to Holyrood
A parliamentary motion lodged by Mid-Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser, which celebrates Perth 800 and calls on MSPs to back Perth in its quest to gain official city status, will be debated in the Scottish Parliament on Thursday. The “Setting up the City” campaign was originally launched by Perthshire Conservatives in December 2004 for Perth to gain legal city status. The campaign recognised that, despite Perth being a historic city, it did not have official legal city status like Scotland’s other six cities Aberdeen, Dundee, Edinburgh, Glasgow, Inverness and Stirling. Speaking ahead of the debate Murdo Fraser, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:  "I'm pleased to have secured this important debate on Perth 800 and the bid for City Status for Perth. I welcome any opportunity to promote Perth, the Perth 800 celebrations and the city’s bid for official city status. Perth & Kinross Council are to be commended for all of their work in organising Perth 800 and it is a great platform to gain support for Perth’s bid to gain city status. Perth 800 and 2010 will be a year to remember for Perth. The rest of Scotland is already looking at this historic city as it celebrates 800 years of history and having a Parliamentary debate enables us to further highlight all the good work being done in Perth and Perthshire. I am pleased that politicians from all sides have backed my parliamentary motion and are behind the bid to give Perth city status. It is tremendous for Perth and Perthshire because we must have politicians from all parties supporting the campaign to gain city status for Perth as well as support from local businesses and local community organisations. It is also a great boost that the Courier has lent its support for the campaign and I hope that local residents will back the bid for City Status for Perth. Perth is one of the best places to live, visit and do business and I believe that city status presents the opportunity to bring major benefits to the area by showing the area's potential to grow in areas such as business, education, art, culture and sport by putting Perth on the map as Scotland's Seventh City." Fellow Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, Liz Smith said:  "2010 is set to be an important year for Perthshire. The start of Perth 800 presents the opportunity to not only celebrate the 800th anniversary of the granting of the Royal Burgh Charter to Perth by King William the Lion of Scotland in 1210, but also to promote the local heritage, sports, arts and cultural events which will be held throughout Perth and Kinross during 2010. It is vital that Perth 800 engages with every community in Perth & Kinross, encouraging civic pride, stimulating the local economy through tourism, enhancing the national and international profile of Perth and Kinross and I hope create the platform for Perth to bid for formal city status."
Perth colleges must not lose out again under additional college cash
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife has called on the SNP Scottish Government to ensure fair treatment for Perth college during funding allocations to colleges following the SNP Scottish Budget which will provide £10m to create an additional 7,500 college training and skills places. Recently Scottish Conservative MSPs successfully amended a Scottish Government motion in the Scottish Parliament to ensure fair treatment during funding allocations, including a pledge to encourage the Scottish Further and Higher Education Funding Council to recognise the particular needs of colleges in rural areas when allocating funds to the sector. This also means that the unique circumstances of rural colleges must be taken into consideration in future by the Scottish Further and Higher Education Funding Council. Liz said: “I am pleased that additional funds have been allocated to help support the work in our colleges reflecting the increasing demand during Labour's recession. Many of the colleges which have lost out in the past have been those serving rural communities, including Perth college. The pressures felt in these areas are no different from the pressures felt in the urban areas. In the past Scottish colleges which benefited from £12m of additional funding as a result of Barnett consequentials were predominantly in the central belt.  Small towns in Scotland see growing unemployment and the associated problems that this brings, and they should not be forgotten about by the SNP Government or the Funding Council when it comes to allocation of resources. I appreciate that the Funding Council has operational independence, but nevertheless they do act with SNP Scottish Government guidance and I hope that the Conservative amendment will make sure that the Funding Council ensures a level playing field for Scotland's colleges."
Dollar Bends
Elizabeth Smith MSP says:  "Some months ago, following several approaches made to me by local constituents, I discussed various road safety issues with Chief Inspector Andy Price, and, as a result of these discussions, I wrote to Clackmannanshire Council to ask if it was possible to have a further road review carried out on the Dollar Bends. In particular, I wanted to investigate the possibilty of better signage at the most dangerous spots and also a review of lane markings.  I am delighted the council has agreed to this and I'm also pleased to lend my full support to the public petition campaign. The Dollar Bends are a notorious stretch of the A91 and while it is usually a very small minority of irresponsible drivers who cause the problem, I think we can probably do more to improve road signage and lane markings." Gerald Michaluk says: "I am delighted to support this petition. There are more accidents and fatalities on Scotland's rural roads than there are on the main trunk roads and in towns and cities and that can sometimes be the result of drivers being unaware of the hidden dangers on rural routes.Driving on rural roads can often be a very different experience especially in the early morning and late evening and during the night. For a few, irresponsible drivers, this type of road often means the opportunity to risk driving at speed and without due care because they think it is less likely they will be picked up by police patrols. This makes rural routes doubly dangerous so it is very good to see a public petition being well supported."
MSP tables Motion on 150 Armed Forces' Cadets 150 anniversary
Shadow Minister for Children, Schools, & Skills, Liz Smith MSP has tabled a Motion in the Scottish Parliament congratulating the Armed Forces' Cadets movement on the 150th anniversary. The MSP hopes to secure a debate in Parliament to mark the anniversary. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "The Armed Forces' Cadet Force has given great opportunities to many young people to develop self-confidence, teamwork, leadership and responsibility through a wide range of activities, including sport, adventure training, first aid, military skills training, community activities and military music groups, across Perth and Kinross and Fife and as they celebrate the movement's 150th anniversary it is worth reflecting the significant contribution which the organisation has made. Events are planned across the United Kingdom to celebrate the Armed Forces' Cadets movement on the 150th anniversary, and I hope that I will be able to secure a debate in the Scottish Parliament so that MSPs will be able to mark the anniversary. In recent months the UK Labour Government has looked to cut funding from the Army Cadet Force training budget. I believe these cuts are extremely short sighted and I hope that pressure can be put on to re-think this decision and to support the Armed Forces' Cadets movement."
Wednesday 27th January 2010 - Letter to the Editor
Dear Editor   I as a reader of a lot of newspapers, remain a strong supporter of the local newspaper industry. The removal of public information notices from local newspapers could cause a loss of up to £10 million in advertising revenue, which would be a massive blow to an industry where the future of many operators is already questionable. In addition there are concerns regarding how people without the internet will access the notices. The Scottish Conservatives have highlighted the implications for the local newspaper industry on a number of occasions. We have repeatedly said we want local authorities to continue to advertise public notices in newspapers, rather than posting them solely 'online', to ensure that as many people as possible can view them and secondly to provide continued financial support for Scotland’s local newspaper industry. We will continue to press the Scottish government to back our stance.   Yours sincerely Gerald Michaluk Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire
Crieff and Perth named as boy racer hotspots
Commenting on the Research by moneysupermarket.com that has identified Crieff and Perth as having a high percentage of male speeders of various age groups. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "I am deeply concerned by the research and having raised this issue with Tayside Police already I know this is an issue which police in Crieff are taking inventive steps to address. More needs to be done to help young drivers and address the tragic toll of young drivers' lives. It is shocking that under 25s are involved in almost a quarter of all crashes that cause death and injury. I have called for new innovative measures such as the development of Pass Plus in schools to support young drivers to improve their skills and reduce the death toll on our roads."
Labour’s Outrageous Class War.  GMB attack Conservative candidates
The Labour-supporting GMB has produced a dossier attacking the backgrounds of Scottish Conservative candidates. Gerald Michaluk , the Conservative Candidate for Ochil and South Perthshire, says: It is outrageous that the GMB has produced a dossier attacking the backgrounds of Scottish Conservative candidates including myself.  I find these attacks unacceptable. Gordon Brown’s government has actually widened the gap between rich and poor and now he has the cheek, through his Union chums, to try and start a class war. I would be more impressed if the information reported was accurate, they can’t even spell my name right, but they are trying to portray a son of a miner who has had the good fortune to become a successful business man as something bad.  This I will not stand for.  It is clear Labour does not support the middle classes and those who strive to better their lot and are striving for a better life for their children.  Labour’s recession has landed us with over £23,000 worth of debt per man, woman, and child, and his spending spree continues. The interest on his debt is more than the entire Scottish Budget!  Now his Union chums, are trying to make working hard and creating wealth a bad thing. Time Gordon and his cronies woke up and smelt the coffee, our country is in trouble and it will be the middle classes who will end up paying for Labour’s attempt to buy the next election. Does he not know it will be the self-employed, small business owners and hard pressed middle classes that will get this country out of the mess he has landed us in?  These are clearly tactics of a desperate party. Using the Unions to peddle inaccurate information is clearly a taste of the dirty campaign this weak and divided Labour party is preparing to run in Scotland.
BEAULY-DENNY DECISION: “SNP GOVERNMENT IS WEAK, INCOMPETENT & CLUELESS”
The SNP Government has been labelled as “weak, incompetent and clueless” by Murdo Fraser MSP in relation to the Beauly to Denny power line decision and for not being able to instruct undergrounding in parts of Perthshire and Stirlingshire. Mid-Scotland & Fife Conservative MSPs Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith want to see undergrounding in parts of Perthshire and Stirlingshire as part of the mitigation for these areas. Commenting, Murdo Fraser said: “The SNP Government needs to get to grips with the Beauly to Denny power line and reconsider planning permission if undergrounding sections is a non-starter.  Even the Reporter of the Public Inquiry recommended refusal of overhead pylons at sections in Perthshire and Stirlingshire but the SNP Government has ignored public opinion by merely proposing ‘mitigation’ at these locations. Ever since the announcement on the Beauly to Denny power line was made by the SNP Government, SNP Ministers have been spinning that undergrounding is a possibility but this has been contradicted by the power companies who have made it clear that they will not underground the line.  Sadly for Scotland, the SNP Government has allowed itself to be played by the power companies and has come across as weak, incompetent and clueless on this matter. The SNP Government must get some courage and insist to Scottish & Southern Energy that undergrounding or re-routing is required in parts of Perthshire and Stirlingshire as the original recommendations at these sections were against the current route of the overhead pylons.” Liz Smith MSP said: “The whole process of reaching this decision has been marred by the totally confused approach taken by the SNP Government. It is time for SNP Ministers to get a grip of their Ministerial portfolios and answer the many questions which exist surrounding the detailed conditions of the planning consent for the Beauly to Denny power line which SNP Ministers have given. The SNP Government has, to date, completely failed to provide any details for the "stringent mitigation requirements" including those relevant to Strathearn. We still have no idea what he means nor do we have any accurate information about the timescales involved or whether any further planning permission will be required. It is now vital that local people are given clarity regarding the details of all the "mitigations" and that SNP Ministers clear up the ongoing uncertainties which the SNP Government have created.”
Scottish Councils could face record claims for damage to vehicles
Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has expressed her concern that Scottish Local Authorities face a record number of claims for damage to vehicles by potholes in the wake of the big freeze which has hit Scotland Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “Following the big freeze, after what has already been a harsh winter many roads are in an appalling condition having seen substantial damage which has left potholes and impacted on the condition of the road surfaces.  It is vital that Scottish Councils survey all local roads after what has been a harsh winter period, and get on with the job and repair local roads. Scottish Councils could now face a record number of claims from motorists for damage to their vehicles by potholes."
MSP raises cuts to Army Cadet training in Scottish Parliament
Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, Liz Smith, has hit out at the UK Government proposed cuts to the Army Cadet Force training budget. The Mid Scotland & Fife MSP raised the issue with Scottish Ministers during General Questions in the Scottish Parliament. In a bid to slash £4m from the budget, the MoD will ask cadet instructors, many of whom are retired army officers, to run training exercises for free. Liz Smith, Conservative MSPs for Mid-Scotland & Fife said: "It is a total disgrace that the UK Labour Government is cutting funding for the Army Cadet Force training budget. This sad situation shows just how under-resourced the MoD really is.  The Army Cadet Force instils a real sense of discipline, leadership and community spirit in our area's teenagers, and that can only be a good thing. Not everyone in the cadets wants to join the Army, although the Cadet Corps has been credited with turning around the lives of thousands of troubled teenagers. These cuts are extremely short sighted and make an absolute mockery of Gordon Brown's stated aim of increasing the number of cadets.  I hope that Ministers will see sense and be forced to carry out another u-turn on Labour's Army Cadet Force Cuts as the Labour Government was force to do on the Ghurkhas and the TA."
SNP GOVERNMENT DECEIT IN POWERLINE DECISION
It has been revealed that the SNP Government rejected recommendations by the Reporter into Beauly to Denny Public Inquiry to re-route the proposed power line away from homes in Perthshire and Stirlingshire. Mid-Scotland & Fife Conservative MSPs Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith have demanded that the SNP Government release a full explanation and all the documents that led the SNP Minister to reject the original recommendation The Reporter recommended that the overhead power line should not be approved at a section near Auchilhanzie House, Crieff, and at a section near Glenside, Plean. Instead of accepting the recommendation, the SNP Government announced that they had asked for measures to mitigate as far as possible the visual impact of the line at these sections Commenting, Murdo Fraser said:  “The SNP Government overruled the recommendation by the Reporters of the Beauly to Denny Public Inquiry to refuse planning permission to build the overhead pylons at sections near Crieff in Perthshire and Plean in Stirlingshire. It seems that the SNP Government has misled Parliament on this matter as the Ministerial Statement last week gave the impression that SNP Ministers had gone further than the Reporter’s recommendations when in fact it was the opposite. The SNP Government must come clean on the Beauly to Denny power line decision and reveal all the advice it had taken when deciding to reject the official recommendation by the Reporter. Communities in Perthshire and Stirlingshire had no chance against the SNP Government when SNP Ministers were even rejecting official recommendations by the Inquiry Reporter and pushing ahead with the overhead giant pylons. After this debacle, the SNP Government must stipulate to Scottish & Southern Energy that undergrounding is required in parts of Perthshire and Stirlingshire as the original recommendations were against the overhead pylons.” Liz Smith MSP said:  “The whole process of reaching this decision has been marred by the totally confused approach taken by the SNP Government. Last week, the Minister said that five specific "mitigation areas" had been identified when it came to minimising the detrimental effect on communities and on the environment, yet today, the Minister announced there would be a further three "mitigation areas". Why has it taken a week to provide the full facts?  The SNP Government has, to date, completely failed to provide any details for the "mitigations" including those relevant to Strathearn. We still have no idea what he means nor do we have any accurate information about the timescales involved or whether any further planning permission will be required. It is now vital that local people are given clarity regarding the details of all the "mitigations" and that Ministers clear up the ongoing uncertainties which the Scottish Government have created.”
DEEP FREEZE HEATS UP CALLS TO ENERGY HELPLINE
Calls to free Home Heat Helpline up 23 per cent this festive season The freezing conditions sweeping Perth & Kinross are having a deep impact on households that are concerned about keeping warm, with a significant increase in calls to the Home Heat Helpline (0800 33 66 99) for assistance over the festive period. The Home Heat Helpline has already received a record number of calls over November – December 2009, an increase of 23 per cent from 2008. Home Heat Helpline spokesperson, Christine McGourty said:  “The increase in calls to the Helpline indicates that households in Perth & Kinross and across Scotland are suffering as a result of the extreme weather conditions – but it is positive that people are reaching out for help.” Perthshire based MSP, Liz Smith is urging residents across Mid Scotland & Fife to call the free Home Heat Helpline (0800 33 66 99) today, after recent ‘Missing Millions’ research* from the Home Heat Helpline revealed that 6,300 households across Perth & Kinross are missing out on savings of up to £250 each year on their energy bills. The research shows that households across Perth & Kinross could save around £150 a year on their heating bills by insulating their lofts and a further £115 a year with cavity wall insulation. “I am joining the Home Heat Helpline in urging households across Perth & Kinross to call the free service on 0800 33 66 99 to find out how they can keep warm and save money on their energy bills today. Helpline advisors can give people who are worried about the cost of heating their homes help on making their home more energy efficient, and information on reduced or ‘social’ tariffs and free insulation available,” says Liz Smith MSP. The Home Heat Helpline says it is absolutely essential for older people, families with young children and those with disabilities to find out what assistance and grants they may be eligible for. Liz Smith MSP also urges neighbours, friends and family of those who may be especially feeling the cold to call the Home Heat Helpline on their behalf to find out if they are eligible for help. “Freezing temperatures can be isolating for many people, especially the elderly. If you know anyone who might be finding it hard to keep warm and healthy during the cold weather – please call the Home Heat Helpline to see what support is available for them.” Coronation Street star Kym Marsh, ambassador for the Home Heat Helpline campaign said: “I know what it’s like to be a single mum who is struggling to pay the bills. When every penny counts you need all the help you can get. But often you don’t know who to turn to. The Home Heat Helpline provides a really friendly, helpful service for people in need. Anyone who thinks they might be missing out on the help they are entitled to should give them a call.”   TIPS FOR A WARMER HOME ·       Make sure your radiators and heaters are not blocked by furniture or covered by curtains, otherwise most of the heat will literally disappear out the window. ·       Keep draughts at bay using a draught-proofing kit, available from most DIY stores to block draughts around external windows and doors. ·       Replace your traditional light bulbs with energy efficient ones. These use 80% less energy, and can cost as little as 50p. ·       Appliances left on standby can use as much as three-quarters of the energy they use when they are fully switched on – so turn them completely off when not in use. ·       Mend the drips. A dripping hot water tap can waste enough hot water to fill half a bath in just one week, so fix leaking taps and make sure they’re all fully turned off.
BEAULY-DENNY DECISION
On the day of the decision on the Beauly to Denny power line application, Mid-Scotland & Fife Conservative MSPs Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith have criticised the SNP Government for the lack of clarity on the detailed conditions of the planning consent for the line, for not fully exploring alternative options to the Beauly to Denny power line, and for not requiring the line to be undergrounded near Stirling and at other significant parts of the route. Murdo Fraser MSP said:  “This was a shambolic announcement from the SNP Government on what has been the most controversial planning application in Scottish history. Energy Minister Jim Mather was incapable of answering a series of simple questions about the mitigation measures or the likely timescale for construction of the new line. It is vital to communities in Stirling, Perthshire and the Highlands along the pylon route that they are told exactly what will be done to protect their interests. All we are left with today is a fog of confusion.  We need urgent clarity from the SNP Government on the detailed conditions of the planning consent for this line. We need to know what consideration the Scottish Government gave to alternatives to this new line, such as strengthening the east coast line, as proposed by Sir Donald Miller, or sub-sea cables. The Minister must tell us why he did not require undergrounding sections of the line in areas of high scenic value to be done in order to protect landscapes in sensitive locations. In Stirling for example, the new pylons will have a major impact on views to and from the Castle and the Wallace Monument. Few people would dispute the need to upgrade our grid infrastructure if we are to properly exploit Scotland’s potential in offshore renewables. Nevertheless today’s announcement will be greeted with dismay by residents in Stirling, Perthshire and the Highlands who have campaigned against the line, and also by environmental groups like the John Muir Trust, the National Trust for Scotland, the Ramblers Association, and many others.  We finally have a decision but too much is still not clear. The SNP Government has given the go ahead to a power line that will cut through the Cairngorms National Park, destroy majestic and outstanding landscapes and wildlife habitats in Perthshire, run through the historic Sheriffmuir battlefield and spoil the Wallace Monument and Stirling’s skyline.  The SNP Government has not listened to the thousands of concerns and objections to the line and I hope that people will let them know what they think of this decision at the ballot box.” Fellow Mid-Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP Liz Smith said: "The whole process of reaching this decision has been marred by the totally confused approach taken by the SNP Government.  To make matters worse, today's statement by the SNP Government has singularly failed to provide any details for the five "mitigations" which the Minister says will apply in certain areas, including Muthill and Stirling. We have no idea what he means nor do we have any accurate information about the timescales involved or whether any further planning permission will be required. Local communities and campaign groups will, quite rightly, be very angry about the lack of clarity within today's announcement and what will be the expected remit of the liaison groups which the Minister says he will set up to advise on mitigation. This power line, which has been controversial since day one, will cut through some of Scotland's most scenic and beautiful landscape and yet we are left with many very serious doubts about the process by which the final decision was made. This is an unacceptable state of affairs.”
Perth 800 can be platform for Perth City Status
Mid Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP, Liz Smith has urged local residents to back the bid for City Status for Perth, the campaign is being supported by The Courier. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "Perth is one of the best places to live, visit and do business and I believe that city status presents the opportunity to bring major benefits to the area by growing the areas potential to grow in areas such as business, education, art, culture and sport by putting Perth on the map as Scotland's Seventh City. 2010 is set to be an important year for Perthshire. The start of Perth 800 presents the opportunity to not only celebrate the 800th anniversary of the granting of the Royal Burgh Charter to Perth by King William the Lion of Scotland in 1210, but also to promote the local heritage, sports, arts and culture events which will be held throughout Perth and Kinross during 2010. It is vital that Perth 800 engages with every community in Perth & Kinross, encouraging civic pride, stimulating the local economy through tourism, enhancing the national and international profile of Perth and Kinross and I hope create the platform for Perth to bid for formal city status."
SNP NEED TO GET A GRIP OF SNOW & ICE IN PERTH & KINROSS
With the continuing wintry conditions, Mid-Scotland & Fife Conservative MSPs Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith have called on Perth & Kinross Council to ensure that enough is being done to keep local roads open and to improve the state of the pavements as a result of the snow and ice. The call comes after councils across Scotland struggle with supplies of salt and grit for roads and pavements. The SNP Government has stated it will supply councils with enough salt and grit, with Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth John Swinney MSP stating on BBC Radio Scotland’s Good Morning Scotland on Monday 4th January: “In communities I have been in, there are perfectly adequate walking conditions around individual properties.” Murdo Fraser MSP said: “Over the festive period, I have had a deluge of people getting in touch regarding the state of the roads and pavements as a result of the extreme weather. Across Perth and Perthshire communities, the ice and snow has made some roads impassable and made pavements hazardous and a danger to walk on. The weather has caused havoc across Perth and Kinross.  The Council must have enough gritters out to ensure that the roads and pavements are safe and there must be enough resources, including salt and grit, to carry out the job properly.  If SNP politicians think that walking conditions are adequate then they clearly need to get out more. The state of far too many pavements in Perth and Perthshire communities is downright dangerous at the moment and many elderly people in particular are frightened to leave their homes at this time.  These are difficult and dangerous conditions we are dealing with and the SNP Government must ensure that Perth & Kinross and all local authorities have the proper resources to keep our streets safe.” Liz Smith MSP said: “Local residents across Perth and Kinross are angry at the poor management of weather conditions by the SNP-led Perth & Kinross Administration.  There has been a complete lack of information provided on the gritting of pavements and the refilling of grit bins. I have had many constituents contact me complaining that the emergency numbers which residents were been told to contact have not been answered.  Serious questions need to be asked as to what advance planning the Council has undertaken and why the county has been with untreated roads and pavements.  Council tax payers expect the SNP-led Perth & Kinross Administration to be prepared for extreme weather but it appears they have just not been able to cope.”
MSP welcomes action on M90 flooding concern
Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSPs for Mid-Scotland & Fife, has welcomed action taken by Bear Scotland to address flooding on the M90 at Junction 2, at Dunfermline. Liz  says:   "I welcome the action taken by Bear Scotland to investigate and address the flooding issues on the M90 at Junction 2, at Dunfermline.  Bear Scotland have informed me that further investigative work will also be undertaken to identify additional improvements to address future flooding problems on this stretch of the M90."
MSP URGES CARERS TO ‘CARE FOR THEIR INCOMES AND PENSIONS’
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has added her support to Carers UK’s national carers’ rights campaign on Friday 4th December 2009. There are over six million unpaid carers in the UK who provide care and support to family, friends and neighbours, providing unpaid care worth an estimated £87 billion each year. The Carers Rights Day campaign, run by Carers UK, seeks to increase the take-up of benefits and raise awareness of carers’ rights and the support that they may be able to get in order to protect their pensions. It might be the Carer’s Allowance, council tax discount, Pension Credit or Housing Benefit that makes a difference. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:   “It’s a real concern that carers in Mid Scotland & Fife may not be getting all the help they are entitled to. Carers are fulfilling a vital role in society and without them the NHS and social care system would not be able to cope. It is essential that they are given information about their rights so that they get the support they need in order to plan for their futures.” Carers Scotland urged carers to get in touch with its Adviceline (0808 808 7777 or www.carersuk.org) to receive a free booklet. Carers can also pick up booklets in their local Lloyds pharmacy store. Patrick Begley, Director Carers UK said:  “Many people assume that we will all automatically get a state pension, but you don’t. Pensions are built up from National Insurance contributions over the years. Many carers haven’t been able to make those contributions because of gaps in paid work and, despite their huge contribution to our society, there is a real risk that they will end up with less pension in their retirement. That is why it is so important they get advice and take steps to protect their pensions.”
LABOUR HIDES MORE THAN 23,000 WORKERS FROM UNEMPLOYMENT FIGURES IN SCOTLAND SAYS CONSERVATIVE CANDIDATE GERALD MICHALUK,AND DENIES THEM HELP
New reseach by the Conservatives has revealed that more than 23,000 unemployed working men in Scotland have been written off by the Labour Government and hidden from the unemployment figures.   Under benefit rules men aged 60-64 are able to claim Pension Credit instead of Job seeker's allowance if they lose their job. This means that they do not appear in the official unemployment claimant count figures each month and are excluded from a proper programme of  'back to work' support.   23,444 working age men in Scotland are currently claiming Pension Credit - representing one in ten of all Pension Credit claims in Scotland.   Gerald Michalulk  the Tory Candidate says;   " Having looked at the figure for Ochil and South Perthshire some 320 Pension Credit claimants who are men aged between 50-64 ,out of a total of 4310 ,or 7% ,are in this group in this Constituency. Whilst lower than the National average it is still a signifigant  number being denied help and assistance.   Any future Conservative Government would ensure fair play for all and ensure experienced workers are given every opportunity to contribute to society through access to back to work support whilst under retirement age. The Country is in economic crisis and will need everyone who can to contribute if we are to fight off this Labour recession and return the Country to prosperity."
Liz Smith MSP (centre) alongside other MSP supporting the Bethany Christian Trust 2009 Caring Christmas Trees initiative.
Call for review of A9 junctions
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife and Cllr Murray Lyle Conservative Councillor for Strathallan have called for a review of road safety measures following the latest accidents on the A9. The Perthshire based MSP has written to SNP Transport Minister, Stewart Stevenson MSP and Transport Scotland asking for the junctions at Auchtherarder and Blackford to be reassessed.      Liz said: "The recent accidents which we have seen at the A9 junction at Auchtherarder and Blackford has once again shown the real dangers which these junctions represent and the need to improve road safety at these crossings.  Following past representations which both myself and Cllr Lyle made to Transport Scotland, road layout improvements were made at Blackford junction to try to improve road safety. I have today written to SNP Transport Minister, Stewart Stevenson MSP to ask for the SNP Scottish Government to review these junctions and asking for them to be made a priority."
MSP backs Bethany Christian Trust 2009 Caring Christmas Trees initiative
Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSPs for Mid-Scotland & Fife, has given her support to the Bethany Christian Trust 2009 Caring Christmas Trees initiative. I congratulate Bethany Christian Trust on their successful and innovative Caring Christmas Trees initiative, the proceeds from which will support the vital work of their drop-in centres in Fife. Bethany’s work is especially important to vulnerable people at this particular time of year, and I am hugely impressed by their dedication."
MSP calls on Bear Scotland to address M90 flooding concern
Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSP for Mid-Scotland & Fife, has written to Bear Scotland asking for flooding on the M90 at Junction 2, at Dunfermline to be addressed. Liz said "I have written to Bear Scotland asking for them to investigate the flooding concern on the M90 at Junction 2, at Dunfermline. There is some danger on this short stretch if motorists come upon this problem without prior warning. The danger intensifies when overtaking heavy lorries and when the spray is at its worst. I hope that Bear Scotland will take action to investigate the flooding problem and move to address the flooding problem as a priority." Letter to Bear Scotland Dear Sir I write both as an MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife and as a frequent user of the M90 motorway between Edinburgh and Perth. Shortly after junction 2 (Dunfermline) heading north, there is a small stretch of road where the outside lane is prone to carry an exceptional amount of water in bad weather. It is probably not more than 20-25 feet diameter of water but the pool tends to lie on the road rather than drain away. Obviously traffic is travelling at speed on this stretch and I would suggest there is some danger on this short stretch if motorists come upon this problem without prior warning. The danger intensifies when overtaking heavy lorries and when the spray is at its worst. I fully appreciate that there have been exceptional weather conditions of late but this problem has been around for some time - indeed even a short spell of heavy rain seems to cause the problem. Yesterday's journey to Perth was most unpleasant and once again, this section of the road was causing considerable difficulty for motorists. I know there will be many areas of motorway carriageway in line for repairs but may I suggest this one becomes a priority? Yours faithfully Elizabeth J Smith MSP
Conservatives call for Perth incinerator to be scrapped
Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith, Scottish Conservative MSPs for Mid-Scotland & Fife, have been joined by Peter Lyburn, Conservative Candidate for Perth & North Perthshire in calling for the proposed incinerator in Perth city centre to be scrapped. The MSPs will be attending Perth & Kinross Council's Development Control Committee Meeting on Tuesday 24th Novembr, following the objection formally submitted by SEPA last week.   Speaking ahead of the meeting, Murdo Fraser MSP said: “Perth is a pleasant city set in beautiful Perthshire. To have a toxic incinerator looming over the over city and pumping out fumes all day long will destroy this city’s reputation and beauty. We cannot have this incinerator casting a dark shadow over the city and dominating the skyline. The SNP/Liberal Democrat Council is guilty of allowing this farce to go on for so long and is morally corrupt if it allows this incinerator to be built." Liz Smith MSP said: "This is an unacceptable situation. Apart from the prospect of an appalling eyesore visible across most of Perth’s skyline and the inevitable noise pollution, the entire process has been fraught with a catalogue of errors in terms of the planning process. The Head of Planning has now been forced to put on public record the list of the errors made by the Planning Department of Perth & Kinross Council and it does not make happy reading. What worries me most is the lack of transparency in the planning process, particularly in terms of a lack of adequate and accurate information being presented to the public; a point which was central to the objections raised by SEPA ten days ago. It is little wonder that the public are angry and feel betrayed by the planning officers in Perth & Kinross Council." Peter Lyburn, Conservative candidate for Perth & North Perthshire added: "I have canvassed thousands of people in Perth and it is clear that residents do not want this incinerator. We must stand up for Perth and reject this incinerator proposal outright. All the hard work to make the Fair City a destination for the arts and tourism will be destroyed in an instant if this incinerator is erected. It will be a disaster for Perth and residents do not want this monstrosity here. The SNP/Lib Dem Council should not have allowed this proposal to get this far and this sorry saga must end today."
Gerald Michaluk Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire, Elizabeth Smith Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, Alastair Scott Director of Public Affairs Michells & Butler, at the Isle of Skye Hotel in Perth.
Tories blame Scotland's alcohol problem on the fact that the existing drinks legislation is not properly enforced
Conservative Mid Scotland and Fife MSP, Elizabeth Smith, and Ochil and South Perthshire Conservative Westminster Candidate, Gerald Michaluk, have said that Scotland has little chance of improving its relationship with alcohol until better efforts are made to enforce the existing legislation. Speaking after a meeting with Alastair Scott, Director of Public Affairs at Mitchells and Butlers which employs local workers at the Harvester Inn, Broxden Manor and in the Toby Carvery at the Isle of Skye Hotel, Elizabeth Smith said:  "At present, far too many people who are guilty of abusing the alcohol laws get away with it, scot free. That is not an acceptable situation and that is why the Scottish Conservatives are asking all the other parties to join us in ensuring that the existing legislation is properly enforced.  We have listened very carefully to those in the drinks industry, including Mr Scott, as well as to publicans, hoteliers and members of the public and there is a common theme; those who cause the trouble are not being punished. That needs to change. We need to deal with those who insist on playing fast and loose with our health and we also need to learn important lessons from other countries who do not have binge drinking."   Gerald Michaluk said:  " Mr Scott was very clear; the drinks industry wants a mandatory code of conduct which will stop the ability of a small minority to manipulate the law. We need to get tough with those who try to undermine the existing legislation and we need to have the courage of our convictions when it comes to tackling the growing problem amongst our young people. The SNP's policy of minimum pricing is wrong, because it would penalise responsible drinkers and may well be illegal under EU rules, and it does not get the message through to the right people."
Huge Potential Job Losses in the Drinks Industry
With the Governments announcement that Threshers, Victoria Wines and other off licenses in the group, has gone into administration which could mean thousands of job losses, Gerald Michaluk, Westminster Candidate for the Conservatives in Ochil & South Perthshire says,   "Time after time, Scotland's Fist Minister attacks the drinks industry - first our local pubs and now our off-sales.  Is it not time he stopped? With the binge drinking that is prevalent in the country, the SNP are taking a sledge hammer to the situation.  The Conservatives have the best policy; target the problem drinks and drinkers, not the ordinary social drinkers, whilst Labour haven't a clue what to do.  Are Labour going to come clean on minimum pricing on alcohol? Are they going to say whether they are going to back the SNP's blanket hike in prices or are they going to back the Conservative approach of targeting problem drinks and drinkers?"
Elizabeth Smith MSP, Peter Lyburn, Murdo Fraser MSP with Helen McDade, Head of Policy and Stuart Brooks Chief Executive
Perthshire Tories praise the work of the John Muir Trust
Perthshire based Conservative MSPs, Murdo Fraser and Liz Smith, and the Conservative’s Westminster Candidate for Perth and North Perthshire, Peter Lyburn, have praised the outstanding work being carried out by the John Muir Trust to engage more of the local community in the important environmental projects which are at the heart of the Trust’s work. Visiting the Trust’s offices in Pitlochry, they met Chief Executive, Stuart Brooks, and Head of Policy, Helen McDade, and were then provided with a comprehensive briefing of the current work within the Trust. Murdo Fraser MSP said: "I would like to congratulate the Trust on reaching 10,000 members during the summer. That is a mark of just how successful the Trust has been at inspiring public concern for some of the richest, yet most vulnerable landscapes in Scotland and helping people to understand the responsibilities which they have to ensure these landscapes will be preserved for future generations. Our visit today provided us with a first class update on the pioneering work which is ongoing across all eight John Muir Trust estates and on some of the challenges to be faced in the coming months."  Liz Smith MSP said: "One of the most encouraging aspects of the Trust’s work is the increasing numbers of young people who are taking part in the John Muir Award and I am particularly pleased that Perth and Kinross has been leading the way in this respect. As well as being a member of the Trust, I have had the privilege of working with school groups who have been participating in the Award and it is very clear to me that it provides enormous educational benefits both outside and inside the classroom. Growing numbers of young people are very conscious of the importance of our environment and the need to protect wild places and that is something at which the Trust excels." Peter Lyburn, Conservative MP Candidate for Perth and North Perthshire said: "Too often these days, young people get a hard time when it comes to newspaper headlines, so the work of the John Muir Award and its ability to provide what can be a life-changing experience for so many young people is a real success story. One of the main General Election themes for the Conservatives is giving people more responsibility when it comes to looking after their own communities and that is why we are so supportive of the work done by the John Muir Trust."
Gerald Michaluk pledges to "do his bit" for British Armed Forces
Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire, has pledged to do his bit for the British Armed Forces family. Gerald met with representatives from The Royal British Legion at the recent Conservative Party conference in Manchester where he was presented with a copy of the Legion's manifesto for the next general election. The manifesto sets out priorities for the next Government to improve conditions for the British Armed Forces past and present and their families.  It encourages MPs and candidates to "do their bit" for Service Personnel and their families, the bereaved, veterans and dependants. Kevin Shinkwin, the Legion's Head of Public Affairs, said "We're really grateful to Gerald Michaluk for making the time to meet with us and listen to our concerns.  Our message to every candidate standing at the general election is very simple 'It's time to do your bit'. The entire Armed Forces family needs the support of politicians from all parties," he added "Our manifesto outlines practical ways the next Government can help, and we hope all the parties will give it serious consideration." Gerald Michaluk said, "I am delighted to meet with The Royal British Legion.  They have an important role to play in highlighting the needs of the whole Armed Forces family.  I have pledged to do my bit and would encourage everyone to do the same by visiting the general election manifesto website - www.timetodoyourbit.og.uk - to find out more."
Double white lines at crash site now in place at Burnbrae
Elizabeth Smith MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife who has worked tirelessly with the local community, the Community Council, commuters who use this road and TranServ to have the double white unbroken lines and the 'no overtaking' signs installed at the blind summit site of the Burnbrae crash. Elizabeth Smith MSP says "I am delighted that common sense has finally prevailed and that we now have solid double white lines in place at the site of the horrific accident, when five people were killed.  We were promised these double white lines two years ago. It has taken all that time and a great deal of hard work on behalf of the local community to ensure the promise made by TranServ was kept and I would like to thank all of them for their support. This Burnbrae blind summit will always be known as one of the most dangerous accident spots in Scotland not least because of the horrific fatal crash which occurred here in February 2007. While we can never account for some of the mindless and reckless driving habits of a tiny minority of motorists we can do everything possible to make sure the signage and road-markings are as clear as possible when it comes to warning of the impending dangers. I hope all those who use the A85 will take great care to observe them closely."
Kate and Bill Mason with Elizabeth Smith MSP cleaning up litter in Alloa, as part of the Conservative Social Action Day which took place across the whole of Scotland
John Blackie, Elizabeth Smith MSP, Hamish Young, Anne MacKenzie-Smith and David Stewart help to clean up litter in Methven.
Perthshire & Kinross clean up at Beautiful Scotland Awards
Strathearn resident and local MSP, Liz Smith, has congratulated the Perth & Kinross villages of Comrie, Muthill and Scotlandwell on winning awards in the 2009 Beautiful Scotland campaign to discover the cleanest, most sustainable and beautiful community in Scotland. In total 71 communities across Scotland entered the campaign and were visited by assessors during a national judging tour in August. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "I warmly congratulate all residents and committee members involved in the work and planning that goes into entering the Beautiful Scotland Awards. This year has been a great success for Perthshire and Kinross-shire with awards going to Perth, Comrie, Muthill, and Scotlandwell. Improving the look and character of our towns and villages is important not only for local residents but also visitors and the success of Perth & Kinross villages can only help to encourage people to visit our area and show what pride we have in our local environment."
Tories call for Scotland's two flags to be flown on Forth Road Bridge
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has written to The Forth Estuary Transport Authority asking for consideration to given the flying of the Union Jack flag on the Forth Road Bridge. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "The Forth Road Bridge is one of Scotland engineering icons with an average of 1.7million cars crossing it every month. I welcome the flying of the Saltire flag on the Forth Road Bridge. However, Scotland is and remains an integral part of the United Kingdom and I hope that my request that the Forth Estuary Transport Authority give consideration to the flying of the Union Jack and that we will soon see both of Scotland’s national flags flown proudly on the Forth Road Bridge."
Sportsmanship rubs off on us all
Readers are well aware of my enthusiasm for cricket.  But before anyone thinks that I am about to repeat a ball-by-ball commentary on the recent Ashes I want to assure you that I am not about to turn into a sports journalist.  While I will not pretend that I am anything other than very excited by the fact that England have won back the Ashes after yet another thrilling test match series, it was what happened off the field which captured my attention just as much as what happened on it. And in particular, I want to say something about the Australians and the magnificent way in which they responded to some pretty heavy criticism and what must have been a bitter disappointment at losing the series. If the enduring photograph of the 2005 Ashes was the sportsmanship shown between Andrew Flintoff and Brett Lee, the enduring memory of this series will be the crowd’s reception for Australian Captain Ricky Ponting, both when he went in to bat – perhaps for the last time on these shores – and when he handled his press conference with remarkable composure and modesty that is seldom shown in sport these days. Rudyard Kipling said “If you can meet with triumph and disaster and treat these two imposters just the same.”  I’m not sure I have ever seen a sportsman better handle the latter than did Ricky Ponting and that comes after several matches in which he had both the crowds and the media baying for his blood. This summer, some extraordinarily difficult political situations have dominated the headlines whether these relate to Megrahi’s release, the ongoing expenses disgrace or the controversy about the war in Afghanistan; and in sport too, there has been a lot of bad blood, not just in Rugby Union with players faking injury, but alleged drugs taking in athletics, the Stanford debacle and far too many early season sending offs in football.  So, it was particularly good to see the sportsmanship of the Australians and also to see the English celebrations kept in proportion and avoid the excesses of 2005. Perhaps the Ashes of 2009 did not provide the same brilliance on the cricket field from either team as had been the case in 2005 but there was certainly the same degree of excitement, determination, commitment and nerve-racking tension both on and off the field.  As a result, cricket clubs everywhere, and some now ones are in the most unlikely places in Scotland and England – are reporting a substantial growth in the number of youngsters who want to take up the game and wear a shirt bearing the name of Flintoff or Strauss just as they do for Ronaldo or Rooney.  That, in itself, is one very good piece of news on which to end this difficult summer.  But, best of all, it was so good to see a crowd give a standing ovation to a great player even if, for most of them, he led the team which they regard as the biggest rivals in sport. Long may we enjoy these moments in sport.
Elizabeth writes to Local Newpapers to congratulate Strathearn Horticultural Society
Dear Editor   Strathearn Horticultural Society is yet again to be congratulated on its excellent annual Flower Show in St Andrew's Hall. Apart from the magnificent exhibits on show, it was really good to see the strength of the children's section, the prizes for which had been sponsored by Crieff Community Council. The talent on display was considerable, especially from some of the very youngest entrants, and it is particularly pleasing to see our local youngsters being so creative. In an age where it is not always popular to grow your own produce and make your own food, they demonstrated skills which must make their adult counterparts feel very proud. Well done to everyone involved.   Yours faithfully,   Elizabeth J. Smith Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife
Second Chance Centres would rescue classes from unruly pupils
We’ve got to stop deluding ourselves; poor discipline is a growing problem in far too many schools across the country and the education of well-behaved children is suffering because of a small but growing minority.  As a former teacher, I believe enough is enough and we need the Salmond government to take the matter seriously.  Too many youngsters are having their life prospects ruined because of a lack of good discipline. Just look at the facts.  A member of school staff is attacked every 10 minutes; every 90 seconds of a school day a pupil is excluded from a school in Scotland; a staggering 98 per cent of all excluded children are sent home with nothing to do – as a result, some pupils see exclusion as a favourable alternative to classroom activity.  These figures are not made up.  They are the government’s own figures and they also tell us that at least £6 million of taxpayers’ money is wasted because of the discipline problem.  We’ve got to come up with radical policies to overcome this. When it comes to persistently unruly pupils, my solution is to take them out of mainstream education and teach them in separate Second Chance Centres until they know how to behave.  Why?  Well, I want well-behaved pupils to be able to get on with learning, and teachers to get on with teaching without the distraction of a few badly behaved pupils.  But I also want persistently unruly pupils to get the chance to realise that they are not helping themselves by persistently behaving badly.  They need a second chance to refocus their lives. To be moved out of mainstream education into a Second Chance Centre would send a real message to the pupils concerned.  It wouldn’t just be another detention or suspension and they wouldn’t be sent home with nothing to do.  They would be removed completely from the mainstream environment and taught by specialist teachers. This idea has worked well in Leeds, Belfast, in some states of America and in some parts of Scandinavia.  In recent polling it also receives overwhelming support in Scotland.  In a recent YouGov poll, 70 per cent of those people asked, agreed that persistently unruly pupils should be removed from mainstream classrooms and taught separately.  Very few people supported the current system of sending pupils home or keeping them in mainstream classrooms. The idea of Second Chance Centres has also found favour with teachers and with the Scottish Police Federation, whose business manager Douglas Keil believes many ex-policemen would have a considerable interest in working in this type of centre.  We must not forget that many persistently unruly pupils go on to commit crimes in later life, so catching them early could help change the course of their lives for the better. I also want to take control over schools away from the politicians and give it back to teachers. Astonishingly, at the moment teachers have limited power over discipline.  Their hands are tied because they are unable to impose effective sanctions without encountering a lengthy process of referral to those who supposedly have more knowledge than they do.  Indeed, in some cases, when consultation with local government authorities is thought necessary, not even headteachers appear to have enough powers to deal with unruly children.  This has to change.  Classroom teachers and especially the headteacher have to be given far more control over discipline in their schools. I know that when indiscipline occurs it should be dealt with firmly, fairly and quickly.  There should be no time for the youngster, his or her classmates and the teacher to forget the details of what happened and the reason for punishment.  At present, there is often a large burden of paperwork which accompanies the reporting of disciplinary issues, paperwork that often involves a lengthy procedure which means the issue isn’t dealt with until several days, sometimes weeks later, by which time the whole process has often become pointless.  Teachers need to have control.  The issue goes well beyond what happens inside the classroom.  It involves every parent accepting the responsibility for their child’s behaviour.  It involves teaching them in the very early years the difference between right and wrong and it means encouraging them to take part in activities outside the classroom once they have found where their individual interests and talents lie.  Whether it is music or sport, drama or art, every child is good at something.  These activities are not only highly valuable in the educational sense but they also provide a channel through which to find new friends and new focus in their life. We should never forget that most pupils want discipline.  They work much better in an environment where the rules are clear, simple and consistent and they know exactly where they stand.  The do not like a situation where they feel rules are constantly being broken and where their teachers seem powerless to deal with the bullies.  Second Chance Centres would go a long way to dealing with the problem. School discipline should be at the forefront of the education debate.  It is a small number of pupils who are causing the problem but if we let them get away with it, we ruin the life chances of thousands of other youngsters.
Gold star for the Duke of Edinburgh's Award
Elizabeth Smith MSP, Shadow Minister for Children, Schools, & Skills has welcomed the excellent report which HMIe have given to the Duke of Edinburgh's Award. The review team visited groups including, Friarton Unit at Perth Prison,  Army Cadet Force Detachment at Alva, Mclaren High School in Callander, Perth High School, an additional support needs group in Perth.  The review notes the high numbers of volunteers in delivering DofE programmes and the impact of the regular training and support that they receive. Elizabeth Smith, Shadow Minister for Children, Schools, & Skills said: "Anyone who has been involved with the Duke of Edinburgh's Award will be aware of the positive impact which the award has on both the motivation and achievements for Scotland's young people. The excellent report is a tremendous endorsement to the thousands of volunteers, leaders and staff across Scotland who make a real and positive impact on young people lives day in day out."

Smith welcomes Johnny Walker Open boost to Perthshire economy
Perthshire MSP, Liz Smith, has welcomed the start of the 2009 Johnny Walker Open being held at Gleneagles and prised the event as being a real boost to the local Perthshire economy. The 2005 Open Golf Championship held at St Andrews generated £72 million for the Scottish economy. Liz Smith MSP said: “The 2009 Johnny Walker Open being held at Gleneagles will provide a much welcome boost to the local economy in Perthshire. With over 200,000 spectators expected to attending the 2009 Open and with over £20million expected to be injected into the Perthshire economy alone, hosting the tournament will be a major boost for the local economy in Perthshire and Scotland as a whole."
Further action needed after nursery receives worst ever HMIe report
Scottish Conservatives have called for further action after a Careshare nursery in Kinross received the worst ever report from HMIe. The nursery was graded ‘unsatisfactory’, the lowest possible grade, in all five inspection categories. Liz Smith MSP,  Shadow Minister for Children, Schools & Skills, said: "This is clearly an unacceptable and deeply worrying situation. To receive the lowest grading in all five inspection categories is unheard of. I'm sure the parents of the children will demand immediate action on the part of Careshare, and quite rightly so. Perth & Kinross Council ended its partnership agreement with Careshare some months ago and this particular nursery was the subject of other issues raised by the Care Commission in its report of November 2008. Taken together, these flagged up serious concerns about the management of the nursery. It is shameful children were not receiving education in an appropriately stimulating and well-organised fashion. I am equally worried at further concerns regarding the assurance of good hygiene standards. Today's report makes plain the fact that these concerns have not yet been addressed. This is the greatest cause for concern. The issues must now be dealt with as a matter of great urgency and I hope both HMIe and the Care Commission will carry out further assessments as soon as they can. Careshare has got many important questions to answer if it is to regain public confidence in the important service it provides.”
Drug related deaths in Tayside
Scottish Conservatives are determined to make the difference in the fight against drugs. The latest drug related death statistics (published today) show there were 574 drug related deaths in Scotland last year 53 in Tayside NHS Board Area. Nationally, this represents a 26% rise from 2007, a 61% rise from 2004 and a 131% rise from 1998. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "It is deeply concerning that the Tayside area still has a very high number of drug related deaths. NHS Tayside are working hard to try to address this but must do more to develop the support services essential for helping drug addicts.  That is why the Scottish Conservatives have worked relentlessly to create a new national drugs strategy based on recovery leading to abstinence. The attempts of the last decade to merely manage the problem, based on harm reduction and an over reliance on methadone, have quite simply not worked." Murdo Fraser, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "It is sad to learn that there were 53 drug-related deaths in Tayside in 2008, the highest number ever recorded in the Tayside region.  We must remember that behind these statistics, there are families being devastated by the scourge of drugs.  The number of drug-related deaths in Tayside has been steadily rising each year and shows that the previous Labour-Liberal Executive in the Scottish Parliament failed to take this issue head on.  It is the Scottish Conservatives who have been calling for a radical approach to tackle drug addiction and there is now a new national drugs strategy being put into place, based on recovery leading to abstinence, from the Scottish Government.  Without the Scottish Conservatives, the SNP would still be pursuing the same failed policies as the previous Labour/Lib Dem coalition.  Politicians must do all that they can to stop illegal drug-taking and help those who are addicted to drugs in order to reduce the number of drug-related deaths in Tayside and across Scotland."
Tax bombshell for family homes as Labour resurrect house price tax plans
The Labour Party in Scotland is set to impose higher Council Tax on hundreds of thousands of Scottish households. It has been revealed that they have plans to tax each house based on its precise value, forcing up the tax bill for those who improve their houses, have the nicest views, and have worked the hardest to build a better home. Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said; "This is a bout of summer madness from Labour. Not content with ruining Britain's economy, they now want to penalise those who work the hardest, and improve their homes. Labour has abandoned those who already contribute so much to our society and to our economy. As the Conservatives recently revealed, the Labour Party has form on this issue. Labour's tax spies are flying around the world to swot up on using Big Brother computer databases and snooping tips to hike up local taxes. Gordon Brown clearly has tax-raising plans in store to fill his black hole in the public finances, and now Iain Gray and Scottish Labour are following suit. I fear that Scots will be hammered for saving and investing in their homes, with the inspectors using the tax tips picked up from abroad. The Scottish Conservatives will oppose these tax plans outright and curtail the intrusive and invasive powers of the state tax inspectors."
Scottish Conservatives secure £2M of funding for Alloa
£2Million will be pumped into Alloa as a result of Scottish Conservative pressure on Alex Salmond’s Government. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife & Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire says: “As a result of Labour’s recession Clackmannanshire desperately needed this £2M cash boost. The local community and local businesses will now receive crucial financial support to help them through these difficult times. Labour and the Lib Dems voted against this measure in the budget and the SNP only agreed to it as a result of Scottish Conservative pressure.  This is further evidence that the Scottish Conservatives are at the heart of Scottish politics. It is policies like the Town Centre Regeneration Fund which shows we are making the difference in the Scottish Parliament, holding Alex Salmond to account and standing up for hard working communities such as Alloa. Congratulations to the people of Clackmannanshire for the successful bid.”
Smith welcomes move to establish Supermarket Ombudsman
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has welcomed the Competition Commissions formal recommendation that the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills establish a Supermarket Ombudsman. This has been a long-standing Conservative Party policy. Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “Too many of our farmers and food producers continue to struggle under the burden of the low prices paid by the major retailers. We badly need to inject some balance into the equation. That is why Conservatives have long proposed the establishment of a Supermarket Ombudsman. I am delighted that the Competition Commission has today recommended likewise. Our priority must be to ensure fairness for producers and consumers alike, the establishment of a Supermarket Ombudsman would be a step forward to providing a strong future for the farming industry in Scotland.”
Threat of closure to Alloa Sheriff Court
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, has hit out at a report suggesting over a third of Scotland's court buildings - 19 out of 53 - could be closed including Alloa Sheriff Court. This means 3400 outstanding sitting days would need to be accommodated in the remaining court buildings. Under cost-cutting measures being drawn up for the SNP Scottish Government. Under the proposals 19 of Scotland's 53 smaller Sheriff Courts would be closed with increased use of larger courts and the introduction of mobile court facilities. The aims are spelled out in a document prepared for the Scottish Court Service Strategic Board Liz said: “Any moves to close Alloa Sheriff Court by the SNP could cause very serious difficulties to the legal system in the Clackmannanshire and be another jobs blow to the local economy. Justice delayed is justice denied. If these proposals went ahead we are facing the prospect of offenders awaiting trial causing even more trouble, as they wait longer for a court date. Court facilities are currently under-utilised and there is no reason why criminal diet courts, where the accused is not in custody, could not be run in the evenings. There is also a problem with regard to access to justice. It is not appropriate to expect people to have to travel very substantial distances to purse a civil action for example. "If Alex Salmond’s SNP Government needs to plug a financial hole in the justice system then the first port of call should be to sort out fiscal fines. I found out recently that only £1.3m out of £3.7m outstanding has been collected – a pathetic amount. Scottish Conservatives have continually said unpaid fines should be deducted from wages or benefits. This would go a long way to protecting against these plans which threaten our frontline court services.”
Call for Kinross-shire flood defence infrastructure improvement to be made priority
Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called on Perth & Kinross Council and the SNP Scottish Government to review flood defence infrastructure in Kinross-shire following the flooding which once again hit parts of Kinross-shire yesterday. Elizabeth recently called on the Scottish Government to take more action to help protect properties and business premises from flooding in Kinross-shire. Elizabeth said: “I would like to pay tribute to our emergency services who yesterday responded to emergency calls across Milnathort and Kinross-shire from residents affected by the flooding caused by the heavy rain storms. Local residents in Minathort and across Kinross-shire want to see action taken by the Scottish Government and Perth & Kinross Council to improve the local flood defence infrastructure. It is time this became a priority. I have campaigned for some time for Perth & Kinross Council and the Scottish Government to act to develop solutions to the threat of flooding. The state of flood defences in Milnathort and the drainage system is currently not good enough. Speaking to those affected by flooding the feeling amongst local people is that the pace for establishing the necessary schemes to protect properties and businesses in Minathort and across Kinross-shire are progressing at a snail's pace. Local families and businesses in Minathort and across Kinross-shire want peace of mind. They don't want to worry about their homes being flooded and I believe it is high time Perth & Kinross Council and the Scottish Government invested to protect people and properties from the treat of flood damage."
Smith warns national policing board may lead to single force
Commenting after the SNP Scottish Government's announcement the creation of a new Scottish Policing Board. Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has warned that the a national policing body could threaten the future of Tayside Police with the centralisation of police services which could lead to moves to create a single Scottish police force. Elizabeth said: "The setting up of a new national policing board must not become a first step towards creating a single police force for Scotland. Scottish Conservatives believe in the autonomy of our existing Scottish police forces with strong links to the local communities they serve. The SNP Scottish Government have to be careful that the creation of a national board does not take away the responsibility which currently lies with Tayside Police at a local level to react to the policing needs of the force area. I will continue to argue for effective community policing through Tayside Police and against any moves to create a gigantic and distant single Scottish police force."
Smith joins Guide Dogs campaign to ‘Say NO to shared streets’
Elizabeth Smith MSP calls for halt to more dangerous and discriminating shared surface streets being created in Scotland Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called for a halt to more dangerous and discriminating shared surface streets being created in Scotland. The new street design puts blind and partially sighted people, disabled and elderly people, and young children in danger when the road and pavement are built at the same level with the kerb removed – forcing all road users to make ‘eye contact’ to establish who moves first which obviously undermines the safety, confidence and independence of vulnerable pedestrians.  Young children will also be put at risk as from an early age they are taught to stop, look, and listen and then safely cross the road. If the kerb is no longer there, how can they be safe? Elizabeth said: “We know that shared surface streets are dangerous and discriminate against the safety and independence of vulnerable pedestrians. If people can’t tell where the road begins and the pavement ends, how can you feel safe?  The ‘Say NO to shared streets’ campaign to stop these streets being developed has received support from over 20 disability organisations from across the UK including RNID, Capability Scotland, Inclusion Scotland, Leonard Cheshire Disability, and Arthritis Care."
MSP tables motion of Congratulations to Perthshire's Scottish Charity Champion 2009
Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has tabled a motion in the Scottish Parliament congratulating Perthshire resident Major David Noble on being named Charity Champion 2009 in the TFN Scottish Charity Awards 2009, organised by the Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations. Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: "I warmly congratulate Major Noble on being named Charity Champion 2009 in the TFN Scottish Charity Awards 2009. Major Noble and many individuals like him have made a huge contribution to Scotland’s voluntary sector and in particular to the care and support of veterans.  One in every five people in Scotland is a committed volunteer in one way or another we owe all of them a huge debt of gratitude. The benefits they bring to our communities are immeasurable and we should consider ourselves very lucky to have so many of them on our doorstep. I hope that enormous contribution made by individuals such as Major Noble will encourage others to get involved in volunteering."
MSP welcomes positive future for Kinross Cashmere Mill
Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has welcomed the news that Kinross based Todd & Duncan Cashmere has signed an agreement with Ningxia Zhongyin Cashmere Company Limited for the conditional sale of the business and certain assets of the Todd & Duncan division of Dawson International Trading Limited. The business and some assets will be acquired by a wholly owned subsidiary of Zhongyin, renamed Todd & Duncan Limited. On completion, these employees will transfer to Todd & Duncan Limited which will continue to operate from Kinross. Liz said: "I hope that the sale will provide an opportunity to take forward the company under the new name of Todd & Duncan Limited and provide job security for the 205 employees, their families and the local community.  The highly skilled workforce based at Kinross Mill, as well as the strategic site, provide a great opportunity for the new company to develop the business and I hope that they will go from strength to strength. Many small businesses in Kinross-shire benefit from supplying the workforce and the mill and I hope that this will provide support for them during the recession.   I have called on the SNP Scottish Government to take action to help this industry. I believe that it is vital that the Scottish Government acts to help stimulate the textile industry and encourage consumers across Scotland and the United Kingdom to buy its products, especially those which are made in Scotland."
Tories welcome new ten year road safety framework for Scotland
Scottish Conservatives have welcomed the launch of a new ten year road safety framework for Scotland. Elizabeth Smith MSP, Shadow Minister for Children, Schools and Skills said: "Scottish Conservatives have campaigned for the Scottish Government and partner organisations to act to help address the tragic loss of lives on Scotland’s roads. I very much welcome the launch of a new ten year road safety framework for Scotland to take forward a range of actions to help work towards the vision of zero road deaths in Scotland.  Safe drivers are made, not born and it is crucial for more education at a younger age. We should integrate road safety and driving skills into the school environment so that the drivers of the future can be better prepared and safer.  The safety of children on school buses also remains an issue which needs to be addressed and I hope that the Scottish Government will work with Westminster to put in place new safety measures as well as additional safety training and warnings."
Local Tories step up meal preparation refund campaign
Scottish Conservatives have stepped up their campaign to ensure that all pensioners who have been wrongly charged by councils for assistance with meal preparation secure a full refund, after the Cabinet Secretary for Finance, John Swinney confirmed at Question Time yesterday that the matter will be discussed with COSLA. Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: “The decision in the Boath v Perth & Kinross Council case last month proved what many have known for a very long time, namely that there was no confusion in the original law relating to assistance with meal preparation as an aspect of free personal care. The Court has ruled that a proportion of the charges made by Perth & Kinross Council for its meals on wheels service was illegal under the original law and that the sums involved when quantified are to be refunded to Mr & Mrs Boath.  Thirteen councils across Scotland are in this position.  On the basis of the refunds made by the 6 councils who have already done the honorable thing, I estimate that refunds totalling some £20 million pounds are going to have to be paid to pensioners across Scotland who have been illegally charged over the last 7 years.  Cabinet Secretary for Finance, John Swinney MSP confirmed that the Scottish Government is in discussion with COSLA on the financial consequences of this decision in the context of the concordat. It is up to him to ensure that pensioners across Scotland receive the refund to which they are entitled in respect of these illegal charges. It is now clear that Perth and Kinross Council, as well as all the other local authorities that have yet to reimburse older people and their families for wrongly charging for food preparation, must act to reimburse pensioners without delay. I believe it is also now time for local authorities to review their charges for meals on wheels." Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire said: "It is unacceptable that pensioners in Perth & Kinross have been charged for food preparation when other pensioners living in Councils in other parts of Scotland have received the service free under the free personal care policy. I hope that the Scottish Government will ensure that pensioners in Perth & Kinross receive refunds to which they are entitled”.
Smith slams ‘sham’ consultation process on Post Office closures
Mid Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP, Liz Smith, has highlighted a report by the National Audit Office which suggests that the recent closure of 2,500 Post Office branches, including many in Perthshire & Kinross-shire, will save far less money that was initially anticipated. Commenting on the report, Liz Smith MSP said: “This report underlines what many of us were saying throughout the closure programme, namely that the closures ripped the heart out of many communities and the consultation process undertaken was a sham. From the public meetings I attending in Perthshire & Kinross-shire that were attended by hundreds of people, I know the value people place in their local Post Office. This is particularly the case in rural areas, where the local Post Office is often the hub of the community. During the consultation process, we were assured that the closures – forced through by the Labour Government - were necessary to save hundreds of millions of pounds for the Post Office. This report suggests that the closure of these branches will only result in savings of around £45m per year, less than 15% of the £293m annual savings initially predicted. I am extremely disappointed that we appear to have been misled with regard to the necessity of these changes. Residents in Perthshire & Kinross-shire engaged in the consultation process in good faith, only for their views to be completely disregarded. The National Audit Office have also criticised Post Office Ltd’s communication during the consultation process, a sentiment that many people in the affected communities in Perthshire & Kinross-shire would agree with. This discredited Labour Government cannot be allowed to continue their erosion of services in rural areas.”

 Smith slams ‘sham’ consultation process on Post Office closures

Mid Scotland & Fife Conservative MSP, Liz Smith, has highlighted a report by the National Audit Office which suggests that the recent closure of 2,500 Post Office branches, including many in Perthshire & Kinross-shire, will save far less money that was initially anticipated.

Commenting on the report, Liz Smith MSP said:
“This report underlines what many of us were saying throughout the closure programme, namely that the closures ripped the heart out of many communities and the consultation process undertaken was a sham. From the public meetings I attending in Perthshire & Kinross-shire that were attended by hundreds of people, I know the value people place in their local Post Office. This is particularly the case in rural areas, where the local Post Office is often the hub of the community. During the consultation process, we were assured that the closures – forced through by the Labour Government - were necessary to save hundreds of millions of pounds for the Post Office. This report suggests that the closure of these branches will only result in savings of around £45m per year, less than 15% of the £293m annual savings initially predicted.
I am extremely disappointed that we appear to have been misled with regard to the necessity of these changes. Residents in Perthshire & Kinross-shire engaged in the consultation process in good faith, only for their views to be completely disregarded. The National Audit Office have also criticised Post Office Ltd’s communication during the consultation process, a sentiment that many people in the affected communities in Perthshire & Kinross-shire would agree with. This discredited Labour Government cannot be allowed to continue their erosion of services in rural areas.”

 Abolished Holiday Letting Rules could hit Perthshire tourism industry

Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has expressed her concern at the impact which the abolition of Holiday Letting Rules may have on the tourism industry in the North East.The surprise announcement in the UK Budget that the Holiday Letting Rules are to be abolished in a year’s time has met with concern from many in the industry.

Liz Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:
"Recently a number of issues of concern have been expressed to me including the impact of the surprise announcement in the UK Budget that the Holiday Letting Rules are to be abolished in a year’s time.  I know from speaking to local businesses involved in the tourism industry that they have a number of anxieties. The additional burden of taxation that will be imposed on holiday accommodation businesses may drive an as yet unknown number out of the industry.
Self-catering holiday accommodation is an important part of the accommodation mix in Perthshire as well as across the UK and in turn it generates trade for other businesses providing goods and services to guests. Many of the details from HM Treasury are as yet unclear as regards the implementation of the abolition and this is an issue which I can assure local businesses I will be working on to protect local businesses and the tourism industry in Perthshire.
The abolition of the of Holiday Letting Rules is going to significantly impact on the Scottish Government's growth target of increasing Scottish Tourism by 50%. If we can achieve this then it will have a great impact on our local economy in Perthshire as well as helping the economy during the recession.
The prosperity of rural areas in many parts of the country depends on tourism, which of course requires accommodation and the changes may potentially result in a reduction in supply. Small business owners who run one cottage or a complex of cottages will rightly feel badly treated if they are taxed on a different basis to other businesses providing accommodation."

Concern for increase in number of
mortgage repossessions orders

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife and Gerald Michaluk, Westminster Candidate have expressed their concern following figures obtained by the Scottish Conservatives which showed a dramatic increase in the number of mortgage repossession orders being granted by Aberdeen Sheriff Court.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:
"The figures for 2008 are terrifying and are likely to be even worse in 2009 as Labour's recession deepens. The number of mortgage repossession orders granted by Perth Sheriff Court has increase from 82 in 2007 to 123 in 2008. Alloa Sheriff Court also saw an increase on the 38 mortgage repossession orders granted in 2007 to 44 in 2008. Nationally the number of mortgage repossession orders has doubled from 3,782 in 2007 to 7,015. These statistics represent families in serious difficulty. It is deeply concerning that the number of mortgage repossession orders being granted by the Sheriff Court in Aberdeen has seen such a dramatic increase over the course of 2008.

Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire said:
"Labour's recession continues to impact on families and communities across Ochil & South Perthshire and I have grave concern the figures for 2009 will be substantially greater. Gordon Brown has to realise that people will not be fooled by schemes that grab headlines and nothing else."

Tories call for action on Kinross-shire flooding

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called for more action to help protect properties and business premises from flooding in Kinross-shire. The call comes ahead of the Flooding (Scotland) Bill which is set to become law next week. Elizabeth Smith MSP has called for action not words to help allay the remaining concerns amongst the local community that the flood defences are inadequate as was demonstrated when on 13^th December 2008 when the River Queich yet again burst its banks.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:
“Residents across Kinross-shire want to see action taken by the Scottish Government and Perth & Kinross Council to address flooding concerns. It is good news that Perth & Kinross Council has promised progress. However, local residents are annoyed with the time that it has taken for real progress to be made to improve and develop flood protection measures.
Almost a year ago the Pitt Report called for ‘urgent and fundamental changes’ to the way the country prepares itself for the increased risk of flooding. Kinross-shire residents continue to live with the risk of flooding with insufficient flood defences.
I welcome the commitment to bring forward flood prevention schemes for both Milnathort and Kinross and will continue to ensure that all local views of Kinross-shire residents are heard and that the Scottish Government and Perth & Kinross Council work towards better flood defences for the future."

Tories give PRI a good bill of health

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife and Cllr Alexander Stewart, Conservative Councillor for Perth City South and Conservative Group Leader on Perth & Kinross Council visited PRI to tour the new hospital facilities and meet with NHS staff.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife & Cllr Alexander Stewart said:
"We are full of admiration for the work which all the staff at PRI undertake and we know from representing communities across Perthshire the high regard which PRI is held. The new oncology, haematology, renal dialysis, and orthopaedic services are providing additional health services to local patients and it was a pleasure to see at first hand these state of the art facilities. PRI has seen some important new departmental developments recently and we welcome the continued commitment to provide health services for the local community including the fantastic maternity unit. 
Tens of thousands of patients are treated at the hospital every year, ranging from minor admissions to life-threatening emergencies. PRI is also a very big employer, providing a diverse range of jobs. PRI is the most important institution in Perthshire - we need to make sure it stays that way.
It is also encouraging to see that the new hourly bus service to Ninewells Hospital in Dundee has been a great success with over 1000 passengers a week. Many patients travelling to Ninewells had complained about the number of changes and it is therefore encouraging for both patients and staff that the bus service is proving a success."

Tories call on Ochil & South Perthshire Towns to apply for Regeneration Fund

Mid Scotland and Fife Conservative MSP, Elizabeth Smith, and Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire have welcomed the opening of applications to the Town Centre Regeneration Fund.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife said:
"I welcome the opening application process for the £60 million Town Centre Regeneration Fund secured by the Scottish Conservatives in the Scottish Government's Budget.
The Town Centre Regeneration Fund is new money that the Scottish Conservatives gained for our town centres, not money taken from local authority budgets.  Along with the business rates cut that the Scottish Conservatives secured for small businesses in last year’s budget I hope that the Town Centre Regeneration Fund will provide additional support to help our Town Centres during the recession."

Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire said:
“It is vital for the future of town centres across Ochil & South Perthshire that we do everything we can to maintain viable small businesses and promote local town centres as vibrant and prosperous parts to our economy."

TORY CANDIDATE CONDEMNS RAIL TICKET PRICE INCREASES

Today, Gerald Michaluk Conservative Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire agreed wholeheartedly with Alex Johnstone MSP, Shadow Minister for Transport, who said

"Labour’s recession is hitting families hard. People are losing their jobs and their homes so this is not the time to be raising rail fares as the economy falls into deflation for the first time since the 1960s. I believe it is deeply irresponsible for rail companies to compound these difficulties by raising fares in this cynical fashion.  I appreciate that regulated fares may fall in line with the RPI, but rail companies should not be allowed to compensate for this by raising unregulated fares. It is simply not acceptable."

Gerald Michaluk went on to say "The economy is going to get worse, all families will have to watch every penny they spend. People use the railways not just for pleasure but to get to work, and for those who are lucky enough to still have a job, rail journeys are essential. It is appalling that the railways will take advantage of the commuter at times of economic crisis".

Gerald Michaluk writes to local Newspapers to Congratulate the Chairman of the
Auchterarder Leisure and Recreation Association and his Committee

Smith welcomes new young Scots
road safety initiative

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, has welcomed the new 'Your Call' initiative launched today by Transport Minister Stewart Stevenson and former Scottish rugby internationalist Gavin Hastings.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:
"I welcome the launch of the 'Your Call' initiative which will target young Scots to try to address the tragic loss of young drivers’ lives on roads across Scotland.. The new road safety campaign which will use social networking sites Bebo and Facebook, as well as a new DVD resource for schools, to actively engage with pupils and show the harrowing effect road accidents can have on young lives. We must take action to improve road safety and support drivers, particularly young drivers, to improve their skills. And I would like to see the Scottish Government go further to extend the Pass Plus scheme across Scotland to support young drivers in taking advanced driver training."

 Perth Harbour Visit

 Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, Cllr Alexander Stewart, Leader of the Conservative Group on Perth & Kinross Council and Cllr Heather Stewart, Conservative Councillor for Perth City Centre visited Perth Harbour Board to meet with Harbourmaster, Nick Horner.

In a joint statement Elizabeth Smith MSP, Cllr Alexander Stewart and Cllr Heather Stewart said:

“Perth already enjoys a strategic advantage at the heart of Scotland’s transport links which makes it an ideal place to live and locate your business. In addition Perth Harbour provides an additional advantage which we believe can be further developed to provide additional transport links and capacity. Transporting goods through Perth Harbour is increasing becoming more cost-effective, as haulage miles are minimised by bringing goods closer to their final destination and providing a lower cost alternative to larger coastal ports. Cargoes that pass through Perth Harbour now range from traditional agricultural related cargoes such as animal feedstuffs and fertilisers to timber, chemicals and baryte ore. The Harbour Board has already made outstanding efforts to keep Perth at the forefront of the Scottish economy and we wish it all success in future.”

HELP FOR MID SCOTLAND & FIFE SMALL FIRMS DURING THE RECESSION

Small businesses across Mid Scotland & Fife will benefit from a substantial tax cut from tomorrow (Wednesday, April 1).

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife and Gerald Michaluk, Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire, have both welcomed the cuts to small business rates secured by Scottish Conservatives in the Scottish Government Budget 2009.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:
"Labour's recession is hitting businesses across Scotland hard. Meeting with local businesses people across Mid Scotland & Fife it is clear that the small business rate cuts secured by Conservatives is very much welcome. Our intervention will see local taxes abolished for 150,000 small businesses across the country from April, That is real help in these tough times. Small local businesses are the lifeblood of Scotland's communities and will play a critical role in re-building our economy when Scotland emerges from Labours recession. Small shops and businesses across Mid Scotland & Fife are facing tough times. These firms, from our corner shops to local pubs, are at the heart of our local community.  Conservatives are determined to help local businesses and communities weather the economic storm and part of this strategic help has been the securing £234 million worth of concessions from the SNP Scottish Government during budget talks. Including further cuts in small business rates which will mean that from the beginning of the financial year Scotland’s 150,000 smallest businesses will pay no rates with larger businesses winning additional significant cuts to the rates they pay."

Gerald Michaluk, Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire said:
“Our intervention will see local taxes abolished for 125,000 small businesses across the country from April. Had it been left to the SNP Government, the final cuts would have taken another year to arrive. That is real help in these tough times. Small local businesses are the lifeblood of Scotland's communities and will play a critical role in re-building our economy when Scotland emerges from Labour’s recession. Scottish Conservatives are determined to help local businesses and communities weather the economic storm and from today, that help will be forthcoming. It’s essential that Scottish businesses are not at a competitive disadvantage with competitors in England, as they were under the Lib/Lab Pact.”

3 fold rise in direct measures
to deal with vandalism in Perthshire

The number of direct measures which are required to deal with vandalism in Perthshire has more than trebled according to information released by Scottish Conservatives. The information comes in a parliamentary answer which shows that in the period September 2008 to February 2009 there were a total of 33 direct measures issued for vandalism, compared to 10 for the corresponding period the previous year.

Liz Smith, Conservative MSP and Gerald Michaluk, Westminster Candidate said today:

“Crimes such as vandalism and graffiti are a real blight on communities in Perthshire and are a real concern for many people. The sharp rise in the figures from 10 last year to 33 this year is of great concern. We really must get tougher when it comes to tackling this problem as none of the people behind the crimes that get a fiscal fine will see the inside of a courtroom as a result of their actions. We need to get more serious about tackling vandalism and graffiti. Appearing in court, with the evidence presented and the sheriff imposing a sentence is a strong part of the deterrent effect. That is not replicated by posting a letter away to agree to a fine. This is little more than a light slap on the wrist.”

MSP raises Perth Revenue and
Customs Office closure in Parliament

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has raised the potential impact on the closure of the Perth Revenue and Customs Office with the Scottish Government. Ms Smith asked Cabinet Secretary for Finance and Sustainable Growth, John Swinney MSP, in light of the potential impact on jobs in the area, what representations it has made to the UK Government regarding the closure of Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs offices in Scotland.

Elizabeth Smith MSP said:
"Across the UK the Labour government plans to close 93 HMRC offices with the loss of over 3400 jobs by 2011. Labour's recession is hitting communities across Scotland hard. The proposed closure of the HMRC office in Perth will directly impact on 17 jobs. I recently met with representatives from HMRC office in Perth who expressed concern regarding the impact which the closure will have on the community particularly local pensioners who access public service information through the office. I believe it is vital for the SNP Scottish Government  to help limit the potential impact that the closures may have on the local economy, staff and businesses by looking into how services can be provided locally to meet the needs of local businesses and the local economy in Perthshire."

 Call for support to safeguard
Kinross Cashmere Mill

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has called on the First Minister and the Scottish Government to take action to help stimulate the textile industry across Scotland. The call comes following news that Kinross Cashmere Mill, on the outskirts of Kinross has introduced a four day week for its 205 strong workforce.

Speaking after First Minister Questions today, Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said
"The fact that Kinross Cashmere Mill has introduced a four day week for its 205 strong workforce is very concerning for those who work at the mill as well as their families and the local community. The century old cashmere mill is a vital employer in the Kinross-shire area and I believe that it is vital that the Scottish Government act to help stimulate the textile industry and encourage consumers across Scotland and the United Kingdom to support our textile industry.
I have arranged a meeting, along with Cllr Kathleen Baird, Conservative Councillor for Kinross-shire,  with management from Todd and Duncan at the Kinross Mill to discuss the current employment situation and what help can be provided to support the mill and the local workforce."

Conservative Councillor for Kinross-shire, Kathleen Baird said:
"I am very concerned about the future of Kinross Mill as it is the major employer in the Kinross area. It is vital that support is given to safeguard the jobs of the local work force and protect the families and businesses across the area which rely on the mill."

MSP calls on Post Office Ltd to deliver
Post Office Outreach Service on time

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has written to Post Office Ltd after she was contacted by a number of Constituents in Abernethy and Kinnesswood complaining that the outreach Post Office Service which replaced the local Post Office Branch has failed to appear in the villages on a number of occasions leaving local residents without the Post Office service.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:
"I have today written to Post Office Ltd regarding the many problems which have been reported to me relating to the outreach Post Office service for Abernethy and Kinnesswood. The Labour governments Post Office closure programme last year was a devastating blow to many communalities with the loss of local Post Office branches. However, since autumn 2008 the alternative Outreach Post Office Service for Abernethy and Kinnesswood has clearly not living up to the needs of the local community. It is vital that rural communities across Perthshire and Kinross-shire have essential and reliable Post Office and Banking services, I hope that Post Office Ltd will address the concerns and make sure that the Outreach Services are made to work for the local communities."

POLICE NUMBERS:
SNP MUST DELIVER FOR TAYSIDE

Mid-Scotland and Fife Conservative MSP Liz Smith has demanded that the SNP Government put in place the resources required to recruit extra police officers for Tayside Police, after figures released today show that the overall number of police officers in Tayside Police stands at 1,180 for the latest quarter (31 December 2008), down from 1,185 police officers at 30 September 2008.

Commenting, Liz Smith MSP said:

“Tayside Police do a magnificent job and our local police officers carry out their job with the highest of skill, even when under so much pressure.  It was good to see additional officers being recruited in Perth City but the overall trend in Perth and Kinross is downward. Large rural communities across Perthshire need a large police presence so that they can be visible to deter anti-social behaviour and crime in our towns and villages.  Also, with more police on the beat, then it gives people the opportunity to approach the police with any concerns they have in the community.   The Scottish Conservatives only agreed to support the Scottish Government’s 2008 Budget if certain key pledges were met. One of these was the pledge to provide 1000 additional officers across the country. The Scottish Government gave an undertaking to use £10million in 2008/9 and £13million in 2009/10 to fund the recruitment of 1000 additional police officers by 2011. That means by 2011 we should have a minimum of 17,261 police officers. This funding and these additional officers were over and above the baseline budget to maintain police numbers at the 2007 level of 16,261.

The SNP Government must not fail in their pledge of 1,000 extra police officers across Scotland.”

MSP Backs Scottish Tourism Week 2009

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has backed Scottish Tourism week 2009. Ms Smith has called on residents and businesses to help promote the attractions of the Mid Scotland & Fife Region, and not just during Scottish Tourism Week.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:
"I'm delighted to support Scottish Tourist week 2009. The week is a great opportunity to highlight the great attractions which the Mid Scotland & Fife Region has to offer tourists and locals alike seeking a day out. From golf courses, hill and coastal walks, castles, distilleries and a host of other attractions in town and country, there is plenty to entertain visitors from the UK and overseas alike. As the year of Homecoming gets into full swing, I hope we can take this opportunity to encourage businesses and groups in the Mid Scotland & Fife region to come together and do what they can to tell the world about the attractions of the region. Not only would such a promotion provide a welcome boost to local communities in the short-term, but in the longer term we can reap even more benefit if we raise the profile of the region, welcome visitors, and encourage people and businesses to invest here."

TORIES URGE LOCAL BUSINESSES TO APPLY FOR RATES RELIEF

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife and Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire have this week urged local small businesses across Perth & Kinross and Clackmannanshire to check if they are eligible to benefit from a package of business rates which come into effect on 1^st April.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:

“As a result of the budget passed by the Scottish Parliament earlier this year, and as a result of pressure by Scottish Conservative MSPs to have rates relief for small companies included within that budget, more than 7,000 businesses across Perth & Kinross and omore than 1,100 businesses across Clackmannanshire will now be eligible to benefit from lower rates bills, and I am encouraging every local small company to make sure that they claim any benefit that they are eligible for. From 1^st April, businesses with a rateable value of less than £8,000 should pay no business rates at all. Businesses valued between £8,001 and £10,000 will be eligible for a 50% rates discount, while those with a rateable value of between £10,001 and £15,000 can have a 25% discount. Rates relief is not automatic and must be applied for, so if any local businesses believe that they are entitled to a cut in their rates then I would urge them to contact the council to ensure that their application is made.”

Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire said:

“During the current difficult economic times it is all the more important that small companies make sure that they are taking advantage of all the relief that they are entitled to receive, to help them weather this challenging clime and to safeguard local jobs.”

 Monday 23rd February 2009

Scottish Conservatives call to ease
tax burden for all

 Elizabeth Smith MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife and Gerald Michaluk, Scottish Conservative & Unionist Party candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire are today calling for an immediate cut in Council Tax.

Commenting, Elizabeth and Gerald said

"The SNP Government has been forced into a humiliating climbdown and shelved its plans for an unfair, unworkable and totally discredited local income tax. That is good news but we can go further with local taxation and reduce the burden of council tax for everyone.

The national figure of £281 million that the SNP Government said it could find to subsidise Local Income Tax would be much better used to cut the council tax bills of every household in the Perth & Kinross and Clackmannanshire Council areas. We would use the government's efficiency savings to cut the council tax bills in every Ochil & South Perthshire household by £150, meaning 100% of council tax payers would be better off.

This means that in Perth & Kinross the average Band D property would see its council tax cut from £1,158 to £1,008 and in Clackmannanshire from £1,148 to £998. On top of this, we would still plan to go even further with bigger cuts for our older pensioners.

Now that plans for local income tax have evaporated, we must use that money, as the Scottish Conservatives have repeatedly demanded, to cut the council tax bills for every household in Scotland - because the Scottish Conservative proposal is the only game in town."

Friday 20th February 2009
Tories demand fair deal for Ochil & South Perthshire Farepak families

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife and Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire have pledged to continue to fight on behalf of Ochil & South Perthshire families who have been waiting more than two years to receive their money back following the collapse of the Christmas hampers and gifts company Farepak. About 120,000 families are expected to eventually receive about 5p for every £1 they saved. £40m was lost when the savings club went into administration in October 2006.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said

“Many families in Ochil & South Perthshire, as in many communities across Scotland, are still awaiting refunds or compensations payments after the Farepak Company went into administration two years ago denying Christmas hampers and other gifts to these families.
Even now, despite the promise of compensation, families are still waiting to see if they will receive compensation or at the very least if they will get some of their cash returned.  Sadly in 2006 many families suffered a Christmas without the gifts and treats they had responsibly worked and saved for through the Farepak scheme.
The UK Labour Government have given an undertaking that at the very least, families will receive back 5p for every £1 they placed in the scheme. To date no families have received this pitiful refund. Two years is long enough for families affected to have to wait. I will continue to fight on behalf of constituents who have been waiting for their compensation payment and believe it is high time that the UK Government brought forward the compensation package for those who have lost out and who have had their confidence in investing knocked so badly."

Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire said

“The situation has also been made worse by the fact that many Farepak agents find themselves, having accepted payments from friends and family, in a situation which has clearly caused additional stress for many through no fault of their own.
The Financial Services Authority has agreed to consider regulating Christmas savings schemes in the future, but for many people in Ochil & South Perthshire the question they will ask is why were they not regulated before?”

Thursday 19th February 2009

Tories call for road safety in class room
to help tackle young driver deaths

Scottish Conservatives have called for more driving skills to be included at senior school level to try to tackle the number of young driver deaths on Scotland roads. Elizabeth Smith, Shadow Minister for Children, Schools, & Skills has urged Scottish Local Authorities to encourage secondary schools and colleges across Scotland to place more emphasis on encourage young drivers in Scotland to improve their driving skills.
A recent Scottish Government report into rural road safety found that half of road users in rural areas were not aware of the national speed limit. In a similarly worrying trend, many of those surveyed felt that risky driving would not necessarily have result in accidents due to the low volume of traffic on rural roads.

Elizabeth Smith MSP, Shadow Minister for Children, Schools and Skills said:
"Safe drivers are made, not born. More education at a younger age is needed if we are to curb these worrying trends. We should integrate road safety and driving skills into the school environment so that the drivers of the future can be better prepared and safer.
Scottish Conservatives are determined to address the tragic loss of young lives on Scotland’s roads. One way to help achieve that is for young drivers to improve their driving skills with the Pass Plus scheme.
The Scottish Government is currently developing a 10-year road safety strategy, which will be published early next year. Scottish Conservatives would like to see the option of the Pass Plus scheme being offered to every young driver in Scotland."

 Friday 13th February 2009

Smith meets with Tayside Chief Fire Officer on EU threat to Tayside retained fire stations

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife has expressed her concern that the future of retained fire stations in Tayside could be under threat because of an EU directive preventing fire-fighters from working more than an average of 48 hours a week. Ms Smith and Cllr Alexander Stewart, met with Tayside Chief Fire Officer, Steven Hunter, to express their concern and support for Tayside Fife and Rescue Services retained firefighters. 
Conservatives have called on the Labour British government to ensure the Council of Ministers does not back down on its position of supporting the opt-out. As the European Parliament and Council of Ministers now have differing opinions, they will now enter a period of 'conciliation' in an attempt to reach a compromise.
Tayside Fire and Rescue covers an area of approximately 7,500 square kilometres, with a population of 392,000.  The majority of the population is centred in Dundee and Perth with the remainder spread throughout a number of towns and villages in Angus and Perth and Kinross. Tayside Fire and Rescue's 668 operational firefighters crew a total of 50 fire appliances based at 24 strategically located fire stations.  These personnel are dedicated and motivated individuals providing wholetime, retained and volunteer cover in the Tayside area. 
Wholetime crews offer emergency cover 24 hours a day, 365 days a year, working day and night shifts over a 4 shift system.  This is based on a 2 day shift, 2 night shift rota system, with rest or rota days in between. Retained firefighters are available 365 days a year and live or work within close proximity of their local fire station.  They may have other occupations, but once their pocket alerter activates they respond from home or place of work.  Tayside Fire and Rescue also employs volunteer firefighters at three stations in the more remote areas of Tayside.  Responding to a pocket alerter, the volunteer personnel provide valuable cover as well as working in their local community areas.

Elizabeth Smith MSP said
"There is growing concern that the restrictions on retained firemen’s working time will have major implications on their flexible duty system. I am also concerned that that knock on effect could be that future of some of Tayside’ retained stations could now be put under threat and that communities could be left without local fire cover leading to an increase in emergency response times from the full time stations.  The vote to scrap the working time opt-out by Labour and Liberal Democrat MEPs and to undermine the ability of Scottish workers to choose how many hours they work comes at the worst possible time for the British economy. It should never be the place of the European Parliament to tell people they cannot work - particularly during a downturn. Scrapping our Working Time opt-out is even more nonsensical in today's economic climate than ever before. I alongside my Conservative MEP colleagues will work to make sure that the working time opt-out is kept in order to safeguard jobs and vital rural and remote emergency services."

Thursday 12th February 2009

TORY MSP WELCOMES PLANS FOR SCOTTISH COASTAL PATH BUT WARNS ITS SUCCESS WILL DEPEND ON MORE SUPPORT FOR OUTDOOR CENTRES

Mid Scotland and Fife Tory MSP, Liz Smith, has given a warm welcome to the plans for developing the Scottish Coastal Path, citing the huge benefits it could bring to the economy, the environment and the nation's health and well-being, but she has warned that getting the maximum benefit will depend on Scotland being able to make the fullest possible use of its outdoor centres, both in terms of the use of available accommodation and staff expertise.

Speaking in the Members Debate on the Scottish Coastal Path this evening, Liz Smith MSP said:

"I am right behind this idea of a Scottish Coastal Path and I have no doubt that it will prove immensely popular just as has been the case with the West Highland Way, the Southern Upland Way and the Cape Wrath Trail. Some of Scotland's most stunning scenery is around her coastal edges and the project will provide a huge incentive for local people as well as tourists to enjoy one of our greatest natural assets.

"I am however, very concerned about the possibility of losing some of our outdoor centres, many of which are close to the coastline. They are a key component when it comes to providing the facilities to allow people - including many youngsters - to make the best use of the outdoors. But because of budget cuts, an increasing number of local authorities are making cutbacks in  the area of outdoor education and this means that there are real worries about the long term future of our outdoor education centres and the jobs of those who work in them.

"The Scottish Conservatives secured some initial funding in the recent SNP budget to ensure that outdoor education becomes a core rather than extra part of the school curriculum but the Scottish Government now needs to respond with some serious strategic thinking about how we can safeguard our outdoor centres - otherwise we will be undermining the excellent work being done to develop new projects like the Scottish Coastal Path."

Friday 6th February 2009

Free loft insulation programme anger 

Elizabeth Smith Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife and Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire, have expressed their anger at the Westminster Labour government, after local pensioners in Perthshire faced up to a year wait under the governments free loft insulation programme.

Under the scheme residents receive free insulation grants from their energy supplier to cover the cost of additional loft insulation. To date the programme has attracted over 20 000 applications across Scotland.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said: 
“Many local pensioners feel disappointed after having their spirits raised about a programme which has not been thought out and which will see the surveyors and installation process only likely to be carried out over the next year.

"What is now clear is that there is a significant shortage of companies in Scotland available to carry out this insulation work. Having contacted the surveyors and installation companies on behalf of a number of constituents in Perthshire, it would seem that the government failed to see how popular the programme would be and that initial surveys and installation will leave many local pensioners waiting for many months for properties to be survived and the insulation programme is likely to take over a year.

“The installation process is also likely to take additional time as the insulations will be carried out in the East of Scotland area by insulation companies from Newcastle who have had to be drafted in to carry out the work due to the limited local capacity, something the government clearly did not think through.”

Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire said:
"The Westminster Labour government should be ashamed at the way they have treated local pensioners. It is now clear to see that the loft insulation programme will not be able to cope with the level of applications and will leave many of my constituents waiting for over a year for their survey and additional insulation work to be carried out."

Wednesday 4th February 2009
Smith calls on Perthshire farmers to enter
future farmer’s awards

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, has called on farmers in Perthshire to enter the Future Farmer Award 2009.

The Future Farming Award is funded by the Elizabeth Murray Trust and the winner will receive £4000. The award is open to anyone in agriculture who manages productive land in Scotland whether as an owner, tenant, crofter or employee. It is looking for farmers who want to promote their practical ideas which will improve environmental sustainability in Scottish agriculture.

The areas the trust wants to promote practical ideas in include:
· Managing soils to reduce flooding risk
· Integrating native woodland management with grazing livestock
· Choosing crops varieties which are resilient to wet summers
· Developing new ideas for productive and sustainable management of hill ground
· Running farm machinery on farm-produced bio-fuel
· Creating the right conditions for commercially useful 'wild' plants to grow
· Cutting CO2 emissions on-farm and in supply chains

Ideas can be for any level, local to global and do not have to be new or unique, so long as they work and entrants are willing to inspire others to try them. The winner will receive support to do this for a year from a co-ordinator appointed by the Elizabeth Murray Trust.
Ms Smith is encouraging farmers in Perthshire to come forward or for people in the area to nominate any farmer they believe is deserving of this award. Applications opened on the 1st January 2009 and entrants have till 13th April 2009 to enter.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:
"The Future Farmer Award is a great opportunity for those involved in agriculture in Perthshire to showcase their talent and the hard work they put into sustainable farming in Scotland. If you have a practical idea which you believe will help productive farms or crofts improve their environmental sustainability then get your application in, as you could be the winner of the Future Farmer Award 2009."

Tuesday 3rd February 2009

MSP's fears over lack of
alcohol licence renewals

Commenting after figures from the Scottish Beer and Pub Association (SBPA) published details of the numbers of applications for new Premises Licences lodged under the terms of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005, revealed that one in five alcohol licence applications had not been lodged. Elizabeth Smith,  Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife and Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire have hit out at the Liberal Democrat / Labour co-alition which piloted the changes through the Scottish Parliament.

The Scottish Beer and Pub Association (SBPA) has published details of the numbers of applications for new Premises Licences lodged under the terms of the Licensing (Scotland) Act 2005.  These licences are required to allow the sale of alcohol under the new Licensing Act.  The Association’s findings indicate that roughly one in five, or nearly 2,500 licences applications, which could have been lodged for a new Premises Licence in 2008, were not lodged.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:
“There has been a substantial fall in applications. In Perth & Kinross alone we have seen a  22.3% decrease in the number of applications being lodged  many of which are from small tourist businesses. These businesses might be retailing miniature whiskies or obtaining a table licence for serving wine to residents at small B&Bs and guesthouses. The costs of renewing licences are deterring them for continuing with these initiatives. There is a serious issue here about the impact of a steep increase in the cost of alcohol licences. It is extraordinary that the Scottish Government is committed to a 50% increase in tourism revenue by 2015 and yet appears perfectly happy with new regulations that are having a detrimental impact on the tourist industry across Scotland. Local pubs play an important and traditional role in communities across Perth & Kinross as a place where people can meet up and socialise; they are also an essential part of promoting a more responsible drinking culture. The introduction of these new premises licenses has caused the proprietors of many local village shops, pubs and hotels to reconsider their policy."

Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire:
“I know of many anecdotal cases whereby small businesses across Ochil & South Perthshire are not re-applying for an alcohol licence and know that these cases will be reflected in the figures when they do appear. It is therefore welcome that the Scottish Government is to ask the Accounts Commission to review the fee system after September 2009. Sadly after this time there will already have been a negative impact and businesses will have lost trade. The Scottish Government needs to apply  the practice of joined-up government and that should mean protecting our vital tourist trade. It needs to act more quickly in reviewing the costs of alcohol licences."

Friday 30th January 2009

Tories back 2009 People’s Post Office Awards

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife and Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire have called on Post Office customers to
nominate their local Post Office in the 2009 People’s Post Office Awards, in order to recognise the hard work and great customer service provided by people working in Post Office
branches and other outlets across Perthshire.

Today (27 January) is the start of a month long voting period during which the 24 million customers who visit UK Post Offices every week can vote for the Best Post office - the one that
they feel offers outstanding customer service, whether it is located in a city shopping centre, village shop or even in a pub, farm or church.

Elizabeth Smith MSP & Gerald Michaluk said:
"Over the past year with the governments post office closure programme many communities and Post Office staff have felt undervalued and in some cases threatened. We therefore welcome the fact that 2009 People’s Post Office Awards will allow communities who really value their Post Office to register their support. We would urge local residents who value the service they receive from their local Post Office to vote so that Perthshire Post Offices have the opportunity to be recognised for their service to the communities which they serve.
Every customer who nominates their local office will have their name automatically entered into a prize draw giving them the opportunity to win £500 to donate to a charity of their choice."

Friday 30th January 2009

Top marks from MSP for Fairview School

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, and Shadow Minister for Children, Schools, & Skill and Cllr Alexander Stewart Conservative Group Leader on Perth & Kinross Council visited Fairview School in Perth to meet with the pupils, teachers, and support staff and tour the state of the art new school.

In a joint statement Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, and Cllr Alexander Stewart said:

"Fairview school is developing a great name for providing first class education for pupils with additional support needs. We were greatly impressed with the high quality facilities and the great support which staff give to the children and young people with complex, multiple and enduring needs and also with the passion and energy with which the school operates.

"Fairview School is a wonderful environment in which the pupils can learn. The modern design of the building has created a facility which provides a rich and stimulating learning experience and it provides an excellent example of good practice at a time when the Education, Lifelong Learning and Culture Committee of the Scottish Parliament is fully committed to scrutinising and improving the relevant additional support needs legislation prior to the full bill coming before all MSPs later in the year."

Monday 26th January 2009

Tories urge Scottish Government to safeguard Scotland's outdoor education centres

Commenting, Liz said:

"I note with deep concern the views expressed by many in the outdoor education community and especially by Scottish Outdoor Education Centres, that they fear for the future of certain outdoor education facilities. The outdoor education community and its resources are very precious to Scotland, not least because of the huge range of professional expertise amongst the staff.

“In May 2008, Scottish Conservatives launched our outdoor education policy, which would see every pupil being able to access at least one full week of residential outdoor education at least once between the ages of 11 and 15. This kind of activity brings enormous educational worth and would make best use of the outstanding resources Scotland can offer. But now, because of the economic recession, it is even more urgent to implement this policy.

“Outdoor education enriches the lives of all the pupils involved, providing them with a knowledge and appreciation of unfamiliar environments and communities and allowing to develop new confidence and self-esteem, both very important when it comes to self-discipline. It also teaches them leadership skills, the need for responsible behaviour and how to deal with challenges and risk factors. It should be an integral part of every pupil's education, no matter which school they attend or from which background they come."

Friday 23rd January 2009

NO REPRIEVE FOR THE CLOSURE OF THE TAX OFFICE IN PERTH

Gerald Michaluk, Conservative Westminster Candidate for Ochil & South Perthshire, just before Christmas condemned the closure of the Tax and Pension Offices in Perth.

Gerald wrote to James Parnell, Secretary of State for Work and Pensions who has now replied and said there is no reprieve.

Gerald Michaluk said "The Perth location did not suit HMRC's long-term business requirements but I believe that because of the job situation  in this area, which is about to get worse, that the impact of office closures during the current economical climate is appalling.  The Department is trying to re-locate people to Glenrothes or Dundee but I believe the desicion by the Secretary of State is uncaring, unfeeling and totally inappropriate.  This Government should realise that these services are for the benefit of the local population, not for some remote politician in Westminster."

Friday 23rd January 2009

Phone box plea pays dividends as BT confirm removal of threatened public payphones

Commenting after BT Payphones confirmed that the threatened removal of public payphone will not go ahead, Elizabeth Smith MSP said she was pleased that BT had started to listen to local opinion, but pledged to continue her campaign along with Community Councils to save public phone boxes across the constituency.
Perth and Kinross Council have written to BT Payphones objecting to the removal of payphones in the Council area.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland and Fife, said:
"I am pleased that BT has decided to give a future to phone boxes across Scotland. For many rural communities who have lost their local post office, shops, or local pub the potential removal of the public payphone would represent a further blow.
There is no doubt that there has been a fall in the use of public phone boxes as mobile phones have become more popular. However, it is important to many local communities to continue to have access to a public payphone where mobile phone reception is patchy or non existent.
BT payphones have confirmed that where a Local Authority has objected to the removal of a phone box that payphone will not be removed. BT have stated that they may come back to a Local Authority to challenge some objections if they consider them to be unreasonable. I hope that if BT does decide to challenge some Scottish Councils objections to removal, they will look into the issue of mobilephone reception."

Following pressure from the Conservatives, BT extended the consultation period and developed the national Adopt-a-Kiosk scheme to allow local communities to take over the ownership of certain phone boxes in order to keep them.

Monday 19th January 2009

STILL TIME TO RECYCLE OLD
CHRISTMAS CARDS

Elizabeth Smith MSP and Westminster Candidate Gerald Michalukl visited Tesco Extra, Alloa on Monday 19th January to recycle their Christmas cards.

Elizabeth and Gerald said “Christmas is a time when we all tend to create more waste, so recycling Christmas cards as part of the Woodland Trust scheme is a simple way to help reduce the amount of waste sent to landfill. This year’s scheme will again run throughout the month of January with a range of leading high street retailers involved, I’d urge everyone to support the Woodland Trust  and take their cards along just pop them in an in-store recycling box."

Thursday 15th January 2009

MSP WELCOMES COMMITMENT TO REVIEW
KINROSS-SHIRE SPEED LIMITS

Elizabeth Smith MSP has welcomed a commitment by Perth & Kinross Council to review speed limits on Kinross-shire roads. Elizabeth contacted Perth & Kinross Council following a number of concerns from constituents regarding speeding on the A977 and B9097 

Elizabeth said
“Many constituents in Kinross-shire have contacted me to report incidents of speeding on Kinross-shire roads especially the A977 entering Kinross, I am therefore pleased that Perth & Kinross Council have agreed to review the speed limits on local roads.

“The opening of the new Clackmannanshire Bridge has seen a direct increase in traffic along the A977 as well as the fact that speed signs on many of the rural roads are not being adhered to.  

“I also welcome the fact that Perth & Kinross Council have also assured me that information has been shared with Tayside Police, through the Traffic Co-ordinating Group, I hope that speed enforcement activity will be considered by Tayside Police.” 

Cllr Kathleen Baird, Conservative Councillor for Kinross-shire said: 
“Speeding is an issue on all rural roads. Many local residents want to see action taken to address speeding and I will do all I can as the local Councillor to find ways that Perth & Kinross Council can address this problem.”

 Thursday 8th January 2009

New Post Box for
Kinnesswood

MSP secures new Post Box for Kinnesswood
A new post box is to be provided in Kinnesswood thanks to the efforts of local Conservative MSP, Elizabeth Smith.
Following the closure of the Post Office the quantity of mail being placed into the old post box has increased dramatically. Many local constituents have contacted Elizabeth expressing the need for a new larger post box.

Following representations made by the Mid Scotland & Fife MSP, Royal Mail Ltd has now agreed to provide a new large free standing post box. A Royal Mail staff member will make a site visit to ascertain the best position for the post box, which is expected to be in place in the next three months.

Monday 5th January 2009

TORIES CALL FOR NEW LITERACY TESTS ON PUPILS

Concern over levels of reading and counting problems in scottish schools

The Tories called today for more rigorous testing in primary schools amid concern over literacy and numeracy levels in Scotland.

Conservative schools spokeswoman Elizabeth Smith said testing at primary level could detect such problems early on. She believes that Scottish Government plans to introduce stand-alone literacy and numeracy tests in S4 will not fully tackle the problem.  She said the three R’s should be tested as part of whatever new national S4 exam follows Standard Grade and Intermediate level and not as a stand-alone unit

Miss Smith said “By S4, pupils should be able to apply the 3Rs meaningfully to all subject areas, something that is desperately important if we are to raise academic standards across the board.  The first signs of literacy and numeracy problems almost always develop in primary school and that is why I think we should be more rigorous in our testing of these skills at primary. Monitoring pupils’ literacy and numeracy levels could ensure they benefit more from their school experience. It could improve their behaviour and enjoyment of learning”

She added “At present, it is far too easy for pupils in Scotland to progress from primary school to secondary school even if they are failing to reach anything like acceptable standards in literacy and numeracy.  Naturally, this increases the likelihood of these pupils becoming more disengaged from classwork and encouraging behavioural difficulties when they see they can’t cope.  This is doing both them and the education system a great disservice.”

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Saturday 29th December 2008

Call for action to tackle vandalism in Methven

Conservative MSP, Elizabeth Smith, has called for action to be taken to stop the 'mindless' vandalism of goal posts in Methven.

The call comes after the village goal posts were vandalised for the third time. The Perthshire based MSP has contacted Tayside police and asked for additional resources to made available to police the park.

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife said:

"Local people are tired of the mindless vandalism which is happening on a regular basis in the park. The goal posts have been deliberately knocked down on three occasions. Local parents and children are tired of the lack of respect for what are already limited facilities in the village.

“It is vital that members of the public do not feel threatened by the bullies when they want to report an incident of anti-social behaviour.  At present, the offenders often get away with it because individual members of the public are too frightened to speak out on their own but it is a very different ball game for the troublemakers and for the police if whole communities act together.

"I hope Tayside police will investigate these cases of vandalism and will provide additional coverage of the park especially during early evening to tackle the problem."

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Wednesday 17th December 2008

Perthshire residents urged to support local farmers, shops and businesses this Christmas

As we head into the last weekend before Christmas, Perthshire based MSP, Elizabeth Smith and Westminster Candidate, Gerald Michaluk are urging people to buy local food and drink for their Christmas fare over the festive period and help support our local economy.

Elizabeth and Gerald said:
“From Perthshire beef to locally grown vegetables, the combinations of traditional festive foods has emerged because of the wonderful ingredients which are perfectly in season at this time of year. Environmentalists have calculated that the average Christmas dinner travels nearly 85,000 miles, this is unnecessary given the great foods which are available in Scotland.

The Christmas sales period is crucial for many local retailers. They need a good festive sales period to help cover the quieter New Year to spring period. This is a difficult time for local retailers and other small businesses in Perthshire. So buying local produce this Christmas will not only make sure you have the best food on your table,  you will also be reducing your carbon footprint and helping Scotland farmers maintain our beautiful environment.

We hope as many local residents as possible will give their custom to our local shops in towns across Perthshire."

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 Monday 8th December 2008 -

CHRISTMAS VISIT TO VERY BUSY POSTMEN

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Friday 5th December 2008

GERALD MICHALUK - WESTMINSTER CANDIDATE, WRITES TO MINISTER FOR TAX AND PENSIONS REGARDING CLOSURE OF TAX AND PENSIONS OFFICE IN PERTH

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Thursday 4th December 2008 -               CARERS RIGHTS DAY 2008 

MSP urges carers to find out about support

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, has added her support to a national carers’ rights campaign on Friday 5th December 2008.

There are over 600,000 carers in Scotland who provide care support to family, friends and neighbours, saving the country an estimated £7.6 billion each year. The Carers Rights Day campaign, run by Carers Scotland, seeks to increase the take-up of benefits and raise awareness of carers’ rights and the support that they may be able to get.  It might be the Carers’ Allowance, meals on wheels, council tax discount or practical support caring that makes a difference.

Elizabeth Smith MSP said:

"It’s a real concern that carers in Mid Scotland & Fife may not be getting all the help they are entitled to. Carers are fulfilling a vital role in society and without them the NHS and social care system would not be able to cope. It is essential that they are given information about their rights so that they get the support they need and do not live in poverty, risking their own health and future prospects.”

Carers Scotland urged carers to get in touch with its helpline, CarersLine (0808 808 7777 or www.carerscotland.org).  

Patrick Begley, Director of Carers Scotland said,

“Nearly three quarters of carers are financially worse-off as a result of caring, with many falling into poverty and debt. Yet around £70 million per year in carers benefits go unclaimed. Carers must get clear information on what they are entitled to, and how to claim it.”

Carers can order a free booklet called Looking after someone: a guide to carers’ rights and benefits  from Carers Scotland by visiting www.carerscotland.org or calling the free phone hotline on 0808 808 7777.

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Wednesday 3rd December 2008 - PRI Stroke Unit Admission Figures Worst in Scotland

Elizabeth Smith, Conservative MSP for Mid Scotland & Fife, has called on Health Minister, Nicola Sturgeon, and NHS Tayside to act after the National Report on Stroke Service in Scottish Hospitals revealed that only 5% of patients admitted to Perth Royal Infirmary were admitted to a Stroke Unit within 1 day of admission to hospital. 

Commenting Elizabeth Smith MSP said: 

"These figures are deeply worrying and I will be writing to the Cabinet Secretary for Health and Wellbeing to ask that she seeks an urgent explanation from NHS Tayside. Everyone knows that for those enduring the pain and agony of a stroke, early diagnosis and treatment is vital to the chances that person has of surviving.

"Perth Royal Infirmary has a proud record of putting clinical care first and it is to be hoped that in this instance this has not been overridden by  political targets. Patients and their families have a right to expect first class medical care and they too deserve an explanation of why the PRI figure is so low."

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Friday 7th November 2008 - Smith: Parental involvement in education welcome

Following the Scottish Government announcement that parents are to have a lead role in developing the education provision for children, Elizabeth Smith MSP, Shadow Spokesperson for Children, Schools & Skills said:

"I welcome this announcement from the Government.  The work of Parent Teacher Councils is very important to the  work of schools, involving parents in the education of their children.   Parents play the most important role when it comes to ensuring young people grow up in a loving, caring and well disciplined environment, but sadly too many parents in Scotland have demonstrated that they lack the basic parenting skills which are required.

The Scottish Conservatives are committed to examining issues on the parenting front and often these suggestions have not been popular.  We will show compassion and determination when confronting the fact that a number of parents in society today find it difficult to pass on parenting skills to their children because they themselves were the children of parents who did not possess those skills.   Too many of Scotland's children suffer neglect as a result of drugs or alcohol abuse, the most recent statistics show that in 2007/08 there was an increase of 4% in the number of child protection referrals compared with the previous year. (Statistics Publication Notice from the Scottish Government; Child Protection Statistics 2007/08, 24th September 2008)

We cannot shy away from confronting this problem head on, a national debate is needed on the subject."

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Friday 31st October 2008 - SQA exam reform: More difficulty for Scottish Government

Commenting after the closure of the consultation on the next generation of national qualifications in Scotland and the Scottish Government announcement to move back the introduction of the new exam system,  Liz Smith MSP, Shadow Minister for Children, Schools & Skills, said:

"In light of the recent difficulties the Scottish Government has faced with regard to the implementation of its education policies, I am not in the least bit surprised to hear that it has been forced to take this decision. It was abundantly clear to everyone involved in education that the teaching profession was not fully prepared for the implementation of Curriculum for Excellence, but just as importantly, that there had not been nearly enough thought given to how the new proposals for SQA exam reform would articulate with the Curriculum for Excellence. It is very important that pupils' education is not put in jeopardy because of failing to address this issue.

“There is deep concern amongst the profession that the proposals for a new exam structure - which is much needed - are inconsistent in places and do not provide sufficient detail when it comes to the implications for school timetabling and subject choice. These are matters which I am sure will be highlighted within the various responses to the Government's consultation document. I hope that it listens to and acts upon the advice of professional headteachers and their staff." 

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Thursday 30th October 2008 - SNP teacher employment  policy hamstrung by Concordat constraints

Commenting on the publication of the Teacher Employment Working Group Report, Liz Smith MSP, Shadow Minister for Children, Schools &  Skills, said:

“We welcome today's report, particularly because it will improve the information process in addressing two specific issues; a lack of certain jobs and secondly, a mismatch of skills.   The current situation when too many teachers cannot find jobs is totally unacceptable. It is a waste of precious talent and a very worrying element when it comes to young graduates making career decisions.

“However, the real problem in all of this is the fact that the Government has got itself completely hamstrung by its historic Concordat with local government. The SNP came into government on the back of flagship manifesto pledges which set out clear central government targets for our schools; on class sizes, on school meals, on nursery provision and, most importantly, the employment of teachers. Yet, at the same time, the concordat with local authorities was specifically designed to give the local authorities far more freedom to set their own policy objectives.

“In practice, local authorities soon found out that they didn’t have enough resources to implement all these national targets and the SNP have found out, to their huge cost and embarrassment, that they cannot have it both ways. You cannot impose very specific national targets and also allow local authorities to have free rein in setting their own priorities.

“This is simply not workable and quite frankly Scottish education will continue to suffer unless we remove this inconsistency within policy making and allow the demand for and supply of teachers to truly reflect what is required in the educational market place, rather than the unworkable central targets which are not matched by sufficient resources in the system.”

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Tuesday 28th October 2008 - Leavers stats highlight concerns in future funding and education standards

Commenting after the publication of the latest attainment in Higher Education and Destinations of Leavers statistics - showing a 4% increase in the number of qualified  graduates from Scottish institutions - Murdo Fraser MSP, Shadow Cabinet Secretary for Education & Lifelong Learning, said:

“Whilst we can be pleased by the 4 % increase in the number of qualified graduates from Scottish institutions as well as the 2 % increase in the proportion who have gone on to permanent employment in Scotland, we have concerns about the future funding of institutions in Scotland. 

“With the abolition of the graduate endowment, and the advent of top-up fees south of the border, a ‘funding gap’ for Scottish Universities could mean that they potentially find it very difficult to compete in terms of research, resources & even staff; losing some of their best academics to better funded institutions.  Institutions in Scotland could be forced to recruit increasing numbers of international students in order to fund this monetary gap.  This trend seems to be apparent in the publication of these statistics which showed the number of qualifications obtained by international students increasing by 17%. Elements of today’s statistics are encouraging, but the wider issues need to be thoroughly addressed as well.”

Liz Smith MSP, Shadow Minister for Children, Schools & Skills, said:

“Scottish Conservatives welcome this increase in the number of qualified graduates from Scottish institutions, however we still have concerns that, as previous statistics have shown, more than 10% of all school leavers are not moving onto further education, training or some form of employment, especially when this comes at a time of economic downturn. (Source: School Leavers Destinations Statistics 2006/07)

“Several reports in Scottish education, including the 2007 OECD report, have highlighted the need to raise standards in Scottish education and specifically within the area of better vocational training. The Scottish Government must take urgent action to deliver more diverse opportunities for school leavers, opportunities that are fully consistent with their individual needs and aspirations.

“It has the opportunity to do just that when it sets to work on analysing the responses to the consultation document on SQA exam reform and making the curriculum more relevant to the needs of different pupils, plus ensuring that it is more rigorous in the testing of basic skills, especially the 3Rs. Recent weeks have seen many concerns raised that the new Curriculum for Excellence will be delayed because the Government hasn’t provided enough detail for the new courses. It is essential that they do so and provide every opportunity for all youngsters to gain meaningful employment.”

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Tuesday 30th September 2008 - Smith: Scottish Futures Trust mess impacts on state of Scotland’s schools

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Commenting on publication of the latest School Estate statistics, which showed 26% of schools were rated as being in a ‘poor’ condition, while 5% were rated as ‘bad’, Liz Smith MSP, Shadow Minister for Children, Schools & Skills, said:

“We welcome the progress that has been made, particularly the fact that 35,000 pupils in Scotland are benefiting from better classrooms. However, there is still a long way to go. Today's statistics show that nearly one third of our schools are not in an acceptable state and addressing that issue must be a priority for Government. The delay and confusion over the Government's Scottish Futures Trust policy caused many local authorities to postpone new building contracts and so many pupils and teachers will have to wait much longer to see any change.

“On top of that, it is vitally important that there is good use of school facilities by local communities.  It is imperative that better use is made of the school estate and that communities are encouraged to integrate some of their core activities within school facilities. This often helps to develop better community relations and several schools say that it can have a positive impact on discipline too.                       

“Scottish Conservatives are particularly anxious that the school estate should be fit for purpose in the 21st century and that means ensuring they provide attractive and environmentally sustainable campuses and that there is proper provision for new sports halls and playing fields - something that has been too often neglected in the past.”

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 Tuesday 9th September 2008 - Damning class sizes dossier exposes SNP cynicism

Commenting as Scottish Conservatives published a damning dossier on the SNP’s pre-election pledge of class sizes of 18 for P1-P3,  Liz Smith MSP, Shadow Minister for Children, Schools & Skills, said:

“The Association of Directors of Education in Scotland (ADES) has claimed that the real cost of delivering the SNP’s class sizes policy would need a lot more money than the SNP has claimed.

“The SNP initially told us that an additional £40 million would be set aside for local authorities to pursue the policy of class sizes of 18 pupils in primaries one to three. The ADES survey tells us it is more likely to be £422 million, given that £62 million will be needed for additional staff and £360 million for new classrooms. It proves Fiona Hyslop can't count and it also proves that the class size policy in P1-3 is simply not sustainable with the limited resources available. The Scottish Government has made a huge miscalculation and should apologise unreservedly to all parents, pupils and teachers for raising expectations to a level which they will never be able to fulfil.

"A one-size fits-all reduction in class sizes is wholly inappropriate when it comes to driving up educational standards within the first three years. Deciding on class sizes or what is best for individual pupils in individual schools should be a matter for the headteacher, not the Scottish Government or a local authority, and there are many teachers and parents all across Scotland who agree.

“Effective learning is, first and foremost, about good teaching in a calm and disciplined environment and so there are many circumstances where parents would opt to have their child taught in a slightly bigger class if it means better teaching, better discipline and better access to a better school. There is, by no means, always a direct correlation between lower class sizes and better attainment. The SNP’s cynicism has been well and truly exposed today.”

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