THERE are so many organisations in my constituency of Midlothian North and Musselburgh where people provide services and run businesses that make this a better place to live and work. It was a privilege to meet more of them last week.

I had the pleasure of visiting the Energy Training Academy in Dalkeith. With consideration to the energy crisis, the work the Energy Training Academy are doing in the field of gas and renewables education is important. With a strong commitment to delivering quality training programs, they are empowering individuals to acquire the skills needed to excel in the gas and renewables industry. This not only boosts career prospects for individuals but also contributes to the growth of our local and national economy. Their dedication to cultivating skilled professionals in this vital sector is commendable.

I attended the AGM of First Step in Musselburgh. First Step do an excellent job providing effective support for families with young children. They do great work in arranging fun activities for kids, providing outreach support for parents in the community and nursery provision for our very youngest. Keep up the good work!

Last week, I brought a members’ debate on the Holodomor to the Scottish Parliament. The Holodomor (literal meaning ‘death by hunger’) took place in Ukraine in 1932-1933 and up to seven million people were murdered at the hands of Stalin in this appalling famine/genocide suffered by the Ukrainian people. The debate was well attended in the gallery and from across the political parties, and offered a platform to remember the millions who suffered and died. It raised awareness of this historical atrocity and fostered solidarity with our Ukrainian community.

It is truly depressing that, 90 years after the Holodomor, there seems no limit on the number of people Putin is prepared to sacrifice in his war of terror against Ukraine. Aggression must not be allowed to pay.