Video: Business Question (Constituent Case)
/Mhari has been let down by the DWP at every turn
Increased pension age without notification (WASPI - Women Against State Pension Inequality Campaign)
Incorrect benefit advice
No guidance on qualifying years
"What are the UK Government doing to make sure DWP give everyone the advice and support they are entitled to?"
Video: Westminster's Nuclear Obsession
/Westminster's nuclear obsession set to cost £50bn.
The last UK Government estimate for Sizewell was £20bn.
Hinkley Point C estimated to cost £48bn.
"...when will they admit the actual cost of Sizewell C will be a colossal £50 billion noose around billpayers’ necks?"
Budo Martial Arts Academy
/In an unexpected turn of events on a Thursday night, I had the privilege of being awarded Honorary Membership at the Budo Martial Arts Academy in Kilmarnock.
The academy, under the guidance of Professor Bert Rogers, extended a special invitation for me to join a session in their 'Dojo' at St Joseph's. What transpired was an enlightening introduction to the world of Martial Arts and Self-Defence.
Under the expert guidance of Professor Rogers, the experience was not just a physical endeavour but a holistic exploration of discipline, focus, and resilience. The camaraderie within the Dojo was palpable, and the dedication of the academy members was truly inspiring. I encourage everyone to consider taking up this enriching pastime.
Martial Arts is not just about self-defence; it's a journey of self-discovery and personal growth. The Budo Martial Arts Academy in Kilmarnock provides a welcoming environment for individuals of all ages and skill levels.
My unexpected Thursday night venture into the world of Martial Arts was a unique and memorable experience, and I extend my gratitude to Professor Bert Rogers and the entire Budo Martial Arts Academy community for this honorary opportunity.
To those curious about embarking on a journey of physical and mental well-being, I wholeheartedly recommend reaching out to the academy and embracing the transformative power of Martial Arts.
Press Release: WASPI 10 Minute Rule Bill
/LAST WEEK (Wednesday 7th February 2024) Alan Brown MP’s 10 minute Rule Bill on behalf of the WASPI campaign passed its First Reading.
The MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun took a prominent stance on the issue of state pension age changes affecting women born between 6th April 1950 and 5th April 1960.
Mr Brown’s 10 Minute Rule Bill passed with no objections and its Second Reading is set to go to the floor on Friday 19th April 2024.
Alan Brown MP’s Bill urges the UK Government to publish compensation scheme proposals for the women affected by the state pension age changes.
More than 6,500 women in Kilmarnock and Loudoun have been affected by these changes and Mr Brown has worked alongside the WASPI Campaign since he was elected in 2015.
The MP reached out to women in Kilmarnock and Loudoun who have been affected by this and raised some of their cases during the reading of the Bill.
Commenting, Mr Brown said:
“I was pleased to see my 10 Minute Rule Bill pass its First Reading with no objections.
“This is an issue that affects more than 6,500 in Kilmarnock and Loudoun as well as nearly four million across the entire UK.
“My office has been dealing with so many WASPI women and the level of engagement from them ahead of the Bill was remarkable.
“So many got in touch to give their personal account of what they have been through and I raised some of them within my speech – it was impossible to go through them all given the number of emails we had.
“Their stories are heartbreaking and I did my best to raise their voices in Parliament and demand justice is served.
“All three UK-wide parties have been complicit in one scandal or another. Be it the Miners’ Strike miscarriage of justice; Hillsborough; infected blood inquiry; postmaster (Horizon) scandal and WASPI. It should not take a TV drama to force the UK Government to act and deliver justice.
“It has been bitterly disappointing to see the lack of action from the Labour benches, who are supposed to be the main opposition in Parliament – their silence has been deafening.
“I look forward to the Second Reading of the Bill, set to take place in April, and will continue to update constituents on the progress of this.”
Video: WASPI 10 Minute Rule Bill
/Justice for WASPI - Women Against State Pension Inequality Campaign
Miners Strike miscarriage of justice
Infected blood scandal
Hillsborough
Postmaster scandal
WASPI
"All issues that the three UK-wide parties have been complicit in at some point or another. It seems this place never learns."
Press Release: WASPI 10 minute Rule Bill
/This week (Wednesday 7th February 2024), Alan Brown MP will present a 10-Minute Rule Bill to the House on behalf of the WASPI Women.
The MP for Kilmarnock and Loudoun is set to take a prominent stance on the issue of state pension age changes affecting women born between 6th April 1950 and 5th April 1960.
The Bill urges the Secretary of State for the Department of Work & Pensions to publish compensation scheme proposals for the affected women.
More than 6,500 women in Kilmarnock and Loudoun are affected by these changes to the state pension age.
Mr Brown has been at the forefront of this cause since his election in 2015, demonstrating his unwavering commitment to the concerns of the WASPI Women.
Commenting, the representative for Kilmarnock and Loudoun said:
“This bill marks a crucial step in addressing the ongoing injustice faced by these women, seeking to rectify the adverse effects of state pension age adjustments.
"This is a cruel and grave injustice that has gone unaddressed for far too long. More than 6,500 women in Kilmarnock and Loudoun are facing the unfair consequences of state pension age changes, impacting their financial stability and overall well-being.
“This is not just a statistical figure but represents real lives, real struggles, and real injustices.
"I've been working alongside these women since my election in 2015, consistently advocating for their cause and seeking fairness in light of the challenges they face. My office continues to handle dozens of cases, reflecting the ongoing commitment to addressing the issues at hand.
“This 10-Minute Rule Bill is another step in our relentless pursuit to right this wrong and ensure a more equitable future for the WASPI Women.
“It is imperative that Westminster rectifies this situation promptly.”
Holocaust Memorial Day 2024
/Ahead of today I signed Holocaust Educational Trust (UK) Book of Commitment.
In doing so, pledging my commitment to #HolocaustMemorialDay and honouring the six million Jewish men, women and children who were murdered in the Holocaust.