I WANT to begin this week’s column by thanking all those in our communities who were involved in organising and supporting this year’s Remembrance services.
I know how much effort goes into marking Remembrance Sunday and Armistice Day to ensure that collectively we remember the courage of all those who served in the armed forces and those who made the ultimate sacrifice for their country.
Last week, following a request from constituents, I hosted a meeting about the conflict in Gaza and the UK Government’s position on it.
During the meeting, which lasted more than two hours, dozens of constituents asked questions and made points on a variety of aspects of the conflict and the fragile ceasefire declared last month.
I want to thank all the constituents who took the time to join the meeting and express their views on the terrible events that have unfolded in the region over the last couple of years.
The Government remains committed to working with partners towards a two-state solution to deliver lasting peace for the Israeli and Palestinian people.
Back in the constituency, I visited the brilliant John Bellany Day Centre in Port Seton to find out more about the services it provides for older residents in Cockenzie, Port Seton and Longniddry.
It provides an excellent and much-loved service which makes such a difference to the lives of those who attend. I thank the team at John Bellany and all the county’s other day centres for the amazing work they do.
Finally, November 10-16 is the annual Respect for Shopworkers Week, run by retail trade union USDAW. Over the last year, one in 10 retail workers have been assaulted at work, while half have been threatened.
Nobody should face violence, threats or abuse at their workplace. As we approach the busiest shopping time of the year, let’s all be respectful of the work retail and distribution workers undertake for their communities.
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