My Priorities for North East Fife

Representing North East Fife in Parliament is an immense privilege. It’s a beautiful and diverse constituency, with vibrant communities that care deeply about their home. From supporting local businesses and protecting our environment, to improving access to essential services, my priorities are shaped by the conversations I have with constituents every day.

Supporting Local Services

Access to good local services is at the heart of thriving communities. Whether it’s our Post Offices, bus routes, or health and social care provision, people across North East Fife deserve reliable services they can depend on. I’ve been pressing both the UK and Scottish Governments to protect and strengthen these essential lifelines, particularly in our rural areas where losing a service can mean losing a vital connection.

I’m also continuing my campaign to protect access to cash and in-person banking. Too many communities across North East Fife have seen their high street banks close, leaving people and small businesses struggling to do the basics. I’ve been pressing the Government and regulators to go further - it’s not enough to guarantee access to cash, we also need to protect access to full banking services.

Backing Local Businesses and the Economy

Small businesses are the backbone of our local economy, from family-run shops and cafés to the innovative start-ups and world-class hospitality that makes North East Fife special. I’ve been working closely with local business owners and organisations to make sure they get the support they need to thrive. Recently I have hosted a business breakfast to bring together local businesses and hear directly about their successes and challenges. I will be advocating for the policies they need, including fair NICs and better business rates.

I have also been standing up for our local farmers by opposing the family farm tax, pressing the Government on the impact of APR and BPR changes, and highlighting the difficulties that farmers face with the transition to Universal Credit. I have also held a Westminster Hall debate on this.

Protecting Our Environment

North East Fife’s natural beauty is one of its greatest assets, and I want to keep it that way. From the Lomond Hills to the East Neuk coastline, I’m proud to represent a constituency where so many are passionate about tackling climate change and protecting our environment. I’ve been calling for improved recycling facilities, and action to clean up our rivers and seas - including working with SEPA to address water quality in the River Leven and Lower Largo, and water scarcity in our reservoirs. 

In Parliament, I’ve been campaigning to ensure that Extended Producer Responsibility (EPR) is implemented in a way that truly works - reducing waste while remaining fair for both businesses and consumers. I’ve also been working to make the ECO4 energy efficiency scheme a success, standing up for households where the rollout has gone wrong and pushing the Government to ensure that every consumer can benefit from warmer, more efficient homes. Recently, I joined Liberal Democrat colleagues in calling on the Government to uphold the UK’s Climate Change Act and maintain our legally binding commitments to reducing emissions. I also spoke on BBC’s Debate Night about why we cannot afford to roll back on our promises to the planet - the time to act for a greener, fairer future is now.

Improving Housing and Tackling the Cost of Living

The shortage of affordable housing is one of the biggest challenges facing our communities. I’m pushing for more affordable and homes for families, built in the right places, so that everyone has the chance to live and work locally. I’ve also been pressing Fife Council on the lack of social housing and the need to urgently tackle this housing emergency, as well as advocating for the Local Housing Allowance to be unfrozen.

The cost of living crisis continues to put pressure on households across North East Fife. I’ve been calling for better targeted support for those most in need, and for reform of the benefits system so that it is fair, compassionate and easy to navigate. No one should have to choose between heating their home and putting food on the table.

Holding the Government to Account

I’ve been opposing the introduction of mandatory digital ID cards, an expensive and unnecessary project that risks leaving behind those who are digitally excluded. I’ve also been pressing ministers to fix the Government’s broken helplines, which too often fail to provide the support that people need, whether it’s for benefits, passports, or visas. Beyond our borders, I have opposed cuts to overseas aid, supported Afghan women and girls and unequivocally opposed leaving the European Convention on Human Rights.

Looking Ahead

I’ll continue to stand up for North East Fife - for the people, the businesses, and the communities that make it such a special place to live. My priorities are shaped by what matters to you, and I’ll keep working hard to make sure your voice is heard in Westminster and beyond.