Social Tariff can deliver “transformational impact” on fuel poverty levels
Housing Secretary Màiri McAllan has called for urgent action from the UK Government on energy bills, as new modelling finds that around 660,000 households could see estimated fuel bills cut by an average of £700 under Scottish Government proposals for targeted discounts.
New scenario modelling on a targeted unit rate discount and targeted removal of standing charges – or Social Tariff – published today by the Scottish Government, suggest it could lift 202,000 households in Scotland out of extreme fuel poverty and reduce the number of households in fuel poverty entirely by around 135,000, with a UK Government investment of £475 million per annum.
Today’s modelling builds on the work undertaken by the Social Tariff Working Group – comprising energy suppliers, consumer and fuel poverty groups and disabled people’s organisations.
Màiri McAllan said: “In an energy-rich nation like Scotland, no one should be struggling to pay their energy bills – yet far too many people are struggling with bills still higher than they were this time last year.
“The UK Government promised to cut people’s bills by £300 – instead bills have risen by almost £200. We must see action from the UK Government now.
“Today’s evidence shows that under our proposals for targeted discounts, around 660,000 households in Scotland would see their estimated fuel bills go down by an average of £700 – with more than around 135,000 households lifted out of fuel poverty and more than 200,000 lifted out of extreme fuel poverty.
“We have worked closely with energy providers, consumer groups and others to develop these concrete, deliverable plans which would have a transformational impact on people in Scotland during the cost of living crisis.
“The UK Government is not going to reduce fuel poverty without investment – but set against the impact of fuel poverty, which research suggests costs the NHS across in England alone £1.4 billion per year, this investment is not just the right thing to do, but is a smart, preventative spend.
“High energy bills are causing misery for people throughout Scotland and I am calling for the UK Government to use the powers at their disposal and take action to support people now.
“UK ministers have been quick to tell us what they will not do to cut energy bills and reduce fuel poverty – they must now tell us what they will do.”
Frazer Scott, Chief Executive Officer, Energy Action Scotland said: “It is abundantly clear from the report published by the Scottish Government that the introduction of a social tariff or social discount would have a transformational impact on low-income fuel poor households and people with serious health conditions or disabilities.
“The current approach of a wholly inadequate payment £150 through the Warm Home Discount provided through energy suppliers is simply no longer fit for purpose.
“Energy Action Scotland urges the UK Government to introduce a social tariff or social discount of the type modelled in this report and provide meaningful support for households unable to heat and power their homes.”
David Hilferty, Director of Impact, Citizens Advice Scotland said: “Energy is one of our fastest growing advice areas across the CAB network – up 150% compared to the period before the pandemic and the twin cost of living and energy crises.A social tariff for energy is no longer a nice-to-have – it is now an essential and imperative need.”
Based on Scottish Household Condition Survey data, eligible households would receive on average a £1,000 reduction on their modelled fuel bill.
As this estimate is based on modelled fuel bills to meet the heating regimes set out in the Fuel Poverty definition in Scotland, we have also provided a calibrated cost based on DESNZ average domestic consumption data.
For the calibrated cost, the average fuel bill reduction per household is £700 and would require a UK Government investment of around £475 million per annum.
One of the largest regeneration projects of its kind in Scotland, to develop a £1.3bn environmentally friendly coastal town on the Capital’s largest brownfield site at Granton Waterfront, is set to take a huge step forward.
The delivery plans include new housing which will be enhanced with a new primary school (the school to be delivered through a separate contract), retail units, public and open green space.
This would be achieved through entering into a development agreement with Cruden Homes to deliver site wide enabling, infrastructure and new homes.
Each of the 847 new homes will be fitted with an air source heat pump providing residents who move in with new, warm, energy efficient ‘net zero ready’ homes, with fairly priced energy bills.
At least 45% of the homes will be affordable – 214 will be for social rent with the rest a mixture of mid-market rent and homes for sale. Some will also be suitable for families who require wheelchair accessibility.
The revitalisation of Granton Waterfront’s historic buildings and industrial built heritage, coupled with the delivery of new leisure and recreation opportunities, will significantly increase visitors to the area, creating new local employment opportunities.
The overall development will make a significant contribution to Edinburgh’s target to become a net zero carbon city, through a mix of energy efficient buildings, gas free heat solutions, cycling and walking paths and a nature-based approach to climate mitigation and adaptation.
This exciting regeneration in the north of Edinburgh, set to start early next year and due for completion in 2033 will build on early action projects already underway in Granton Waterfront. If approved by the Finance and Resources Committee on Tuesday, 18 November, the business case will then be considered by Council on Thursday, 18 December.
Some of these projects are already complete with others taking shape. Tenants are already living in 75 new ‘net zero ready homes’ for social and mid-market rent at Granton Station View. A short distance away Western Villages has 444 ‘net zero ready’ homes for social, mid-market rent and some for sale, which are nearly all occupied. A further 143 ‘net zero ready’ social and mid-market rent homes at Silverlea are also due for completion in Summer 2026.
At the heart of this nationally significant development of Edinburgh’s coastline sits the Granton Gasholder now known as ‘Gasholder 1 Park’.
The iconic gasholder frame has been restored and can be seen for miles around as it is lit up after dark. It has a new public park created within the frame making it a spectacular focal point in the area. The historic former Granton Station has been refurbished as a creative hub and has a new civic square in its grounds.
The Pitt has opened in a repurposed industrial building at 20 West Shore Road and the core path through the development has been upgraded and named Speirs Bruce Way.
Council Leader Jane Meagher said:“The £1.3bn regeneration of Edinburgh’s coastline is hugely significant for our Capital city. It is the largest public sector led project of its kind in Scotland. Over the next 10 to 15 years, it will continue to set the standard for sustainable economic growth in Edinburgh.
“We’re using the largest brownfield site we own to deliver the first phase of this project, with our development partner Cruden Homes. We will be delivering new and affordable, energy efficient ‘net zero ready’ homes which will provide our residents with fairly priced energy bills.
“The retail and leisure units we will deliver will provide an opportunity for local people to enjoy recreation and access employment. We’ll also be improving public transport and cycling and walking paths as well as education services. Our aim is to help to reduce child poverty as well as address the nature and climate emergencies we face locally and globally.
“Our investment in this major project for the Capital further reinforces our approach across the city to achieve low carbon affordable living for as many of our residents as possible. Our aim is to make Edinburgh more inclusive and well connected to support prosperity and wellbeing for those in the Granton Waterfront area and across the city region.”
Fraser Lynes, Managing Director of Cruden Homes, said:“We’re proud to be playing a leading role in delivering this landmark regeneration of Edinburgh’s coastline.
“Granton Waterfront is a bold and innovative project that will create a distinctive new coastal neighbourhood with a real sense of place, centred around much-needed, high-quality, energy-efficient homes and sustainable infrastructure.
“Working in partnership with the City of Edinburgh Council, we’re not only building net zero ready homes but also creating valuable community benefits, from local employment and apprenticeships to investment in skills and supply chains.
“This next phase marks an exciting milestone in shaping a more inclusive, sustainable and connected future for the Capital.”
Phase 1 of the project has been made possible through the Council securing funding from the Scottish Government – capital grant funding from its Housing Infrastructure Fund as part of its commitment through the Edinburgh and South East Scotland City Region Deal, along with revenue funding through an innovative Place Based Accelerator grant. This was formulated with the support of Scottish Futures Trust.
The Place Based Accelerator grant is an innovative funding model that will allow the Council to take forward the development in return for achieving outcomes for the people in the north of Edinburgh including achieving targets related to improvements to health and wellbeing, educational attainment and local employment opportunities.
Granton Waterfront regeneration supports the delivery of the City of Edinburgh Council Business Plan, the Edinburgh City Mobility Plan, Edinburgh City Plan 2030, Climate Ready Edinburgh Plan 2024 – 2030 and the Edinburgh 2030 Climate Strategy. It also supports the delivery of key national policy objectives as set out in NPF 4, Housing to 2040 and the Programme for Government, 2025-2026.
Deputy First Minister Kate Forbes said: “For people living in Granton and north Edinburgh, this investment means real improvements to daily life. Families will have access to affordable, energy-efficient homes that are cheaper to heat.
“Young people will get construction training and local job opportunities. Parents will see new safe walking and cycling routes to schools and shops and green spaces where their children can play.
“Our support for this project is directly tied to delivering outcomes that matter to local people—improving health and wellbeing, creating jobs that go to local residents first and supporting community organisations.”
Neil Rutherford, Senior Associate Director at the Scottish Futures Trust, said: “This innovative outcomes-based Place Accelerator, backed by Scottish Government and partners, is unlocking new opportunities for people in north Edinburgh and delivering benefits for the wider city.
“We believe the Place Accelerator shows how smart funding and collaboration can turn ambition into action, helping create healthier, fairer, and more prosperous communities.”
Thousands of premises have been targeted in the second iteration of Operation Machinize, a national initiative targeting the criminal exploitation of high street businesses.
Operation Machinize 2, led by the National Crime Agency (NCA) and conducted in cooperation with the National Police Chiefs’ Council (NPCC), ran throughout October and involved every UK police force and Regional Organised Crime Unit, Home Office Immigration Enforcement, Trading Standards, HM Revenue & Customs and Companies House.
During the operation, the partnership delivered:
2734 premises visited and raided
924 individuals arrested
Over £10.7m of suspected criminal proceeds seized
Over £2.7m worth of illicit commodities destroyed
These figures include the removal of 70Kg of cannabis from our streets, 111,000 harmful, illegal vapes, 4.5m illegal cigarettes and 622Kg of illegal tobacco (equalling £3.5m of duty taxes evaded). Furthermore, 341 Referral Notices for illegal working and renting were issued meaning businesses could face fines of up to £60,000 per worker with landlords facing fines of up to £20,000 per tenant if found liable, and over 450 companies have been referred to Companies House for further investigation.
This is the largest operation of its kind focused on rooting out the economic crime and grey economy that makes our high streets less safe and prosperous.
The NCA estimates that at least £12bn of criminal cash is generated in the UK each year, which is typically smuggled out of the country or integrated into financial systems, often to be recycled back into criminality.
High street businesses such as mini-marts, barbershops, vape shops, nail bars, and car washes are used to make the proceeds of crime appear like the legitimate profits of a trade or service. High street businesses are also being used to sell illicit products and evade tax, and are often linked to other types of criminality such as drugs supply and the serious violence it causes.
Earlier this year, the NCA established Operation Machinize after identifying the criminal exploitation of high street businesses was beyond the scope of any one organisation. Working in partnership with the NPCC, it aims to catalyse a large-scale operational response to a multi-faceted problem.
This approach – coordinated nationally and delivered in our communities – ensures the most effective use of powers and capabilities, capitalising on the strengths and remits of each participating agency.
Machinize was established to target economic crime on the high street with this iteration also focusing on the grey economy. There is a known overlap with the exploitation of high street businesses, illegal working and the evasion of customs and excise duties. This overlap also includes modern slavery and unsuitable living and working conditions, and safeguarding individuals at risk is remains a priority for the partnership.
Rachael Herbert, Director of the National Economic Crime Centre at the NCA, said:“Operation Machinize targets businesses on our high street that are being used as cover for a wide range of criminality, making our communities less safe and less prosperous.
“This second phase of Operation Machinize has set a new standard for what can be achieved through the coordinated action of UK law enforcement. Thousands of officers have been deployed up and down our country, targeting criminal profits and the means of generating them.
“Hundreds of thousands of harmful and illegal products have been taken off our streets, and over £10m in cash, frozen in bank accounts and criminal assets seized.
“Depriving criminals of their source of income has a real impact, limiting the amount of funds they can reinvest in further offending and deterring them from taking spaces on our high street that could be used by legitimate businesses.
“These excellent results demonstrate what can be achieved in partnership and show the determination of UK law enforcement to keep our communities safe. We ask for the public’s support as we move forward and to continue to report suspected criminality to the police.”
Sal Melki, Senior Lead for Machinize 2 at the NCA, said:“Machinize 2 has pioneered a whole-system approach to addressing this problem, with the NCA hosting a joint operational cell where our partners could bring their powers, expertise, and energy to tackling an issue the British public care about.
“Over the course of the month, we have learnt a lot about the threat, the different types of offending occurring on our high street and what tactics are effective in combatting it. We have also learnt that this type of offending is not restricted to any one area, type of shop or demographic.
“The scale of this challenge is significant, but it is also important to remember that the majority of shops on our high streets are not considered suspicious.
“While there is organised crime occurring at the top of the pyramid, we do not underestimate the aggregated effect that thousands of shops engaged in so-called lower level criminality is having on our communities and the criminal supply chains that profit from them. The Machinize model therefore relies on local knowledge and delivery just as much as national coordination and intelligence.
“This phase of the operation has been a big success and is one of the largest operations of its kind. We acknowledge the problem won’t be solved overnight or through disruptive action alone – today’s high street is subject to many socio-economic factors beyond the scope of a law enforcement partnership.
“We are therefore working closely with government to use the learning from this operation to build on and develop long-term solutions.”
Security Minster, Dan Jarvis said:“Criminals are using these dodgy shops as fronts for serious organised crime, money laundering and illegal working, risking the future of the British high street.
“We have intensified our joint efforts with law enforcement to dismantle criminal networks and relentlessly pursue those who use dirty money for personal gain.
“Together we have seized millions in criminal assets, removed harmful drugs from our streets and arrested hundreds of criminals who are undercutting honest business owners. I want to thank every officer who took part in this operation.”
Deputy Commissioner Nik Adams, NPCC Lead Financial Investigation:“This action has seen a huge collective effort from UK law enforcement agencies, working together to tackle organised gangs who exploit cash intensive businesses for criminal gain.
“We’ve seen every force in England and Wales working to build intelligence pictures, ensuring we are targeting people who are laundering illicit cash through businesses. We know this money will have links with other forms of criminality such as the exploitation of workers, people trafficking and the sale of illicit goods.
“Not only are we tackling this activity but through this action, we are gaining information and forming a wider picture on high harm offending. Our message is clear, we are alive to the activity happening and we are identifying and bringing to justice those who misuse businesses on our high streets for illegal gain.”
Kevin Hubbard, Director of Individual and Small Business Compliance at HM Revenue and Customs, said:“We are determined to allow honest businesses to thrive which is why it’s crucial we work closely with our law enforcement partners to take action against any business that we suspect are undermining the tax system.
“The majority pay the tax that is due, but we will pursue those who refuse to play by the rules.”
With girls and women remaining underrepresented in computing at school and in the industry, Toni Scullion, teacher, campaigner and founder of non-profit charity dressCode, is working with St George’s School in Edinburgh to inspire more girls to see a future for themselves in the tech industry.
The all-girls school is hosting its third annual Fearless Women in Computing event on Tuesday 11 November, an event which is open to all schoolgirls across Edinburgh. The event, which last year attracted 600 girls from 13 schools from four council areas, aims to encourage more girls to pursue computing science in school and in their professional lives.
The day-long event will feature immersive experiences, workshops and stalls in collaboration with more than 20 companies, including The National Robotarium, IBM and The Quantum Software Lab at the University of Edinburgh.
There will be several guest talks on topics, including AI and women in tech, careers in finance and tech and seeing yourself in computing. Skyscanner will sponsor transport for girls from state schools to attend, with priority given to providing the opportunity to pupils from areas of high deprivation.
Scotland needs 13,000 new digital professionals yearly but produces only 5,000, with women making up just 23% of the digital technologies workforce in Scotland, revealing the clear need for more gender diversity within the industry.
The gap begins at school – girls studying Computing Science in Scotland has dropped from almost 10,000 in 2001 to under 2,500 today, giving Computing Science the largest gender gap of any traditional STEM subject.
Toni said:“I founded dressCode after noticing the inequality in Computing Science when I first became a teacher, and while we have made positive progress, there is still a need for urgent action.
“Girls almost always outperform boys in Computing Science through school and university, but as it stands only 23% take the subject at National 5, a percentage that only drops at each level to Advanced Higher.
“The Fearless Women in Computing event is a fantastic initiative. It’s amazing to hear the sounds of high fives and exclamations from the girls when they solve a problem or make something happen.
“Positive experiences are what people remember and this event is incredible for the pupils; you know that these are moments that will stick with them and form their future choices.
“Unfortunately there is no equity of access to Computing Science in Scotland, so not every pupil is fortunate enough to experience Computing Science and decide if it is something they enjoy; the door isn’t just closed, there is no door.
“If we don’t act now, we won’t see equality in our lifetimes – this event isn’t just a step in the right direction, it’s a critical action to ensure girls are the architects of a future designed for all.”
dressCode was founded in 2017 to bridge the gender gap in Computing Science by engaging, inspiring, and raising awareness about the diverse opportunities available in the tech industry.
Carol Chandler-Thompson, Head at St George’s, said: “Women make up only 22% of the AI workforce, meaning they are being left out of the most influential, high-paying jobs of the future.
“We know how important it is to show girls from early in their schooling that there is space for them in AI and technology industries, which is why we made Computing Science a core subject from P5 to S2.
“This summer 80% of our Higher Computing students achieved an A grade– it’s clear that when girls are encouraged to take Computing Science, they thrive.
“Our Fearless Women in Computing event brings together schools, companies and innovators from across Scotland to create a hands-on, inspiring experience for girls across Edinburgh.
“We have seen first-hand the impact these events can have – hearing the stories of women in the industry, seeing the recent advances in robotics and AI, even “hacking Google” – the day is an eye-opener to the world of computing, and we would encourage as many schools as possible to come along.”
100% of girls study Computing Science from P5 to S2 at St George’s, with a focus on building confidence and encouraging participation among pupils.
The school offers community lessons on Friday afternoons, so any girl from an Edinburgh state school can attend and benefit from the facilities and expertise available.
The Fearless Women in Computing event is on 11 November from 9:30am – 3pm at St George’s School, Edinburgh.
It is open to any Edinburgh school girl from P6 to S6.
A new fund launched yesterday offers £1.5 million in grants for projects designed to break down barriers and strengthen services that disabled people depend on.
The Improving Access Fund is a key part of the Scottish Government’s £3 million Disability Equality Plan. Jointly designed with Disabled People’s Organisations, the Fund will provide grants for projects that improve access to essential services and promote independent living, choice, and participation.
It will focus on three priorities:
Accessible financial advice and support
Inclusive participation in communities and everyday life
Better mental health and wellbeing.
Minister for Equalities Kaukab Stewart said: “Scotland should be a country where disabled people can live the lives they choose – supported, empowered, and included every step of the way.
“Today’s launch of our Improving Access Fund is a really important step towards that – it has been designed with disabled people, for disabled people.
“Through our Disability Equality Plan, we are making a clear commitment: disabled people are a priority for the Scottish Government. By investing £3 million in this work, we are strengthening access to the services and support that enable independence, choice, and participation.
“In contrast, disabled people in Scotland remain deeply concerned about the potential effects of planned UK Government welfare reforms. We call on the UK Government to abandon these damaging proposals and to follow the Scottish Government’s lead in investing in and enhancing the social security safety net, rather than tearing it apart.”
Heather Fisken, CEO of Inclusion Scotland said: “Disabled People’s organisations are led by disabled people ourselves and know best what needs to change.
“For too long our organisations have had to shift shape to ‘fit’ with funders’ missions and requirements, missing out on critical funding to keep our organisations running and to make the changes desperately needed so that disabled people are empowered in their own lives.
“The Improving Access Fund is different because it targets Disabled People’s Organisations and DPOs helped to design it.”
Tressa Burke, CEO of Glasgow Disability Alliance said: “Our survey of 756 disabled members found 91% are deeply concerned about equality and human rights, feeling under attack and de-prioritised.
“This has led to poverty, exclusion, poorer mental health, and reduced participation in daily life. Glasgow Disability Alliance and our members welcome the Improving Access Fund, which will advance equality, independent living, choice, and participation.”
Lyn Pornaro, CEO of Disability Equality Scotland said: “Disabled people demand justice and access to services, buildings, events and public bodies – in the same way as non-disabled people.
“This fund is a starting point to improving access to the key areas of focus in the Disability Equality Plan and, most importantly, in the lives of disabled people daily.”
A new ‘cyber observatory’ to help protect Scotland’s public bodies from online threats will be set up as part of a package of measures to promote the country’s cyber-security.
A newly published refreshed Strategic Framework for a Cyber Resilient Scotland details actions and support to help people, businesses and organisations across Scotland, including local authorities, NHS boards and schools to recognise and prepare for inevitable cyber threats and ensure that Scotland stays ahead of the ever-growing cyber risk.
The Scottish Cyber Coordination Centre’s Cyber Observatory will analyse and share early warnings on cyber threats across the public sector, helping to identify emerging risks so organisations can be more proactive in managing the online threat.
As part of the refresh, the Scottish Government will continue to support take-up of cyber security learning opportunities across schools, colleges and universities. We have also pledged £300,000 to the Upskilling Fund to strengthen the cyber security skills of the public sector workforce.
This Framework details a vision to protect Scotland’s digital infrastructure and security by embedding cyber resilience into the design of systems – safeguarding the critical public services that people across Scotland rely on every day.
Justice Secretary, Angela Constance said: “Digital technology is driving Scotland’s economic growth and shaping our future. That’s why cyber resilience and digital safety are more important than ever.
“We all rely on websites, apps, systems, and data in our daily lives – and while they bring great benefits, we must ensure they are safe and secure to use. Cyber threats are evolving rapidly, and it is our shared responsibility to meet the challenges facing Scotland. The Scottish Cyber Coordination Centre’s Cyber Observatory in particular will be vital in alerting organisations to potential threats.
“This strategic framework promotes essential collaboration across government and sectors. Those partnerships are vital to keep our people, businesses, and services safe – and for building a digitally secure and resilient Scotland.”
Karen Meechan, CEO of ScotlandIS and Chair of the CyberScotland Partnership said: “A cyber resilient Scotland is built on partnership.
“This framework sets out not just what we need to protect, but how we work together across public, private and third sectors to do it. Our resilience depends on our shared commitment to act, learn and support one another”
Newhailes visitors get the chance to win tickets and vouchers for upcoming Christmas shopping fair
Deck the Halls, a brand new Christmas gift fair coming to the SEC from 28-30 November, is teaming up with partner, National Trust for Scotland to host a giant festive gift hunt at Newhailes House and Gardens
Newhailes House & Gardens in Musselburgh will host the gift hunt from Friday 7 – Sunday 9 November, giving visitors the chance to seek out hidden golden envelopes containing tickets to Deck the Halls and up to £150 worth of vouchers to spend at the upcoming event.
Coming to Glasgow for the first time in partnership with National Trust for Scotland, Deck the Halls promises to be an upmarket Christmas shopping experience like no other. Featuring up to 125 handpicked exhibitors, ranging from unique gifts to food and drink and interactive festive workshops, Deck the Halls will help visitors tick off their Christmas list and get into the festive spirit in luxury and style.
Gift hunt winners will get the chance to browse artisan food and drink brands like BeeHype Honey and Craobh Gin; explore handcrafted gifts from Lin-Pin Crafts, Marc Peters Glass and Edinburgh Illustrations; shop unique accessories from Maccessori, Lindsay McDowall and Gist Jewellery; as well as discover thoughtful gifts for everyone from the likes of Birlinn Publishing and National Trust for Scotland.
Speaking about the gift hunt, event organiser Springboard Events’ Managing Director, Mark Saunders said: “We wanted the lead up to Deck the Halls to feel every bit as magical as the event itself.
“Our gift hunt with National Trust for Scotland gives visitors the chance to soak up the Christmas spirit and enjoy some festive fun in the properties’ picturesque surroundings before stepping into Scotland’s newest festive shopping experience. It’s a taste of what’s to come as we get ready for our Glasgow debut later this month.”
National Trust for Scotland Director of Commercial Enterprises, Caroline Reid said: “We’re excited to be part of the celebrations leading up to Deck the Halls. Newhailes House & Gardens will provide the perfect setting for a festive adventure, and the gift hunt is a fantastic way for visitors to celebrate Scotland’s heritage and Christmas spirit while enjoying some of our most loved properties.”
Visitors to Newhailes House & Gardens this weekend will be invited to participate in the Deck the Halls gift hunt and find the limited number of hidden golden envelopes at each property containing tickets and vouchers for the event*.
Tickets for Deck the Halls are available to book now and save £2. General admission is £16 but with advanced booking, tickets can be purchased now for just £14 (children under 15 go free).
New study led by Edinburgh Napier University shows how rough conditions affect faithfulness
Wild seabirds are more likely to split up in windy weather, according to a newly published study led by Edinburgh Napier University (ENU).
The paper, published in the journal Animal Behaviour today (4 November) reveals that environmental conditions before the breeding season appear to have an impact on mate faithfulness – whether birds reunite with the same partner to breed each year, or ‘divorce’ to form a different pair.
Researchers from ENU, the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology (UKCEH), and Biomathematics and Statistics Scotland (BioSS) analysed data collected over the course of two decades from more than 1,500 birds on the Isle of May National Nature Reserve, in the Firth of Forth, and compared them with late winter weather records to understand their breeding habits.
The study focused on European shags (Gulosus aristotelis), given their long lifespan and tendency to change partners between breeding seasons. While the birds analysed for this study had a fidelity rate of 45%, this varied markedly from year to year.
Although age and previous breeding success have been established as strong predictors of mate faithfulness, this paper demonstrates how weather conditions in the lead up to the breeding season are also a significant factor affecting seabird mating habits. Out of the weather conditions analysed, wind speeds had the strongest effect on whether couples stayed together.
Importantly, birds that remained with the same partner tended to lay eggs earlier, which is strongly tied to how many chicks they rear.
The findings are significant given that climate change is bringing about warmer and windier weather conditions.
Ecologists are now calling for further investigation into how shifting environmental conditions could disrupt social relationships among wildlife.
“It is a time when adults are returning to colonies and preparing to breed. When conditions are tough – particularly when it’s windier – it appears that ‘divorces’ are more frequent.
“Until now, the effects of pre breeding weather conditions on faithfulness have been largely under-appreciated. Our study suggests that it warrants further consideration.”
Co-researcher Professor Francis Daunt, from the UK Centre for Ecology & Hydrology, said: “This study is one of the few to test how changing environments influence social behaviours in wildlife.
“It is excellent to see our long-term data used to tackle these important questions, given the current concerns about the impacts of future climate change.”
TODAY (Tuesday 4 November), the Chancellor, Rachel Reeves, will ‘vow to take the fair choices to deliver strong foundations for our economy and secure our country’s future’.
In a speech delivered in Downing Street this morning, the Chancellor will address the country as she lays out the economic choices she will take at the Budget later this month to cut hospital waiting lists, cut the national debt and cut the cost of living.
The Chancellor is expected to say: “Later this month, I will deliver my second Budget as Chancellor.
“At that Budget, I will make the choices necessary to deliver strong foundations for our economy – for this year, and years to come.
“It will be a budget led by this government’s values, of fairness and opportunity and focused squarely on the priorities of the British people:
“Protecting our NHS, reducing our national debt and improving the cost of living.
“You will all have heard a lot of speculation about the choices I will make.
“I understand that – these are important choices that will shape our economy for years to come.
“But it is important that people understand the circumstances we are facing, the principles guiding my choices – and why I believe they will be the right choices for the country.“
Chancellor’s ‘Scene Setter’ speech ahead of Budget 2025
Later this month, I will deliver my second Budget as Chancellor of the Exchequer.
At that Budget, I will make the choices necessary to deliver strong foundations for our economy.
My Budget led by this government’s values of fairness and opportunity…
…and focused entirely on the priorities of the British people:
Protecting our NHS,
reducing our national debt,
and improving the cost of living.
There is a lot of speculation about the choices that I will make.
I understand that – these are the important choices that will shape the future of our country for years to come
I want people to understand the circumstances we are facing,
the principles guiding my choices,
and why I believe they will be the right choices for our country.
We are a country with considerable economic strengths:
An open, trading economy,
A global hub for cutting-edge industries from AI to Biotech,
With world-leading universities and scientific institutions,
and a talented and a committed workforce.
[political redaction]
At the Budget last year, I fixed the foundations:
[political redaction]
I put the public finances back on a firm footing,
Provided an urgent cash injection into our faltering public services,
And began rebuilding our economy.
But since that Budget,
The world has thrown even more challenges our way.
The continual threat of tariffs has dragged on global confidence –
Deterring business investment, and dampening growth.
Inflation has been too slow to come down as supply chains continue to be volatile –
Meaning that the cost of everyday essentials remains too high.
And the cost of government borrowing has increased around the world –
A shift that Britain – [political redaction] – has been particularly exposed to.
And in an uncertain world, we also face pressure to increase our defence spending – and it is right that we do that…
…protecting ourselves from hostile actors and supporting our allies.
And there are other pressures on the public finances.
The Prime Minister, the Secretary of Work and Pensions and this whole government are committed to reforming our welfare state…
…so that it is not a system that counts the cost of failure…
…but one that invests in success and protects those who need it most.
There is nothing progressive about refusing to reform a system that is leaving one in eight young people out of education or employment.
So, we have begun the job of creating a system that protects people who cannot work and empowers those who can.
And there are longer-term challenges too:
That feeling, shared by millions of people across the country that the economy isn’t working as it should.
Alongside the Budget this month,
The Office for Budget Responsibility – the UK’s public finance watchdog – will set out the conclusions of their review of the supply side of the UK economy.
I will not pre-empt those conclusions…
…but it is already clear that the productivity performance [political redaction] is weaker than previously thought.
A less productive economy is one that produces less output per hour worked.
That has consequences for working people – for their jobs and for their wages…
…and it has consequences for the public finances too, in lower tax receipts.
It’s not a question of how hard people work –
Poor productivity means we are putting in more and getting less out.
It means too many businesses and workers don’t have the tools they need:
Trains that run on time,
Broadband that’s fast and reliable,
Access to new technologies,
Or proper training so people have the right skills for the job.
For a long time, commentators have talked about Britain’s ‘productivity puzzle’.
But it’s not a puzzle.
The causes of our economic underperformance are well understood.
The chronic stop-go cycle of public investment has left us with roads full of potholes, high energy prices and unstable conditions for vital business investment in skills and technology…
…and long-term failure to invest in our regions has built growth on a narrow base – with some parts of the country forging ahead while others fall behind.
[political redaction]
All this meant that when the pandemic arrived our country was under-prepared…
…our public services weakened and our economy fragile.
And we finished the pandemic with higher death rates and higher debt than our peers.
This isn’t about relitigating old choices.
It’s about being honest with people about the consequences those choices have had.
It is my job to deal with the world as we find it…
…not the world as I would wish it to be.
Not to commentate or speculate,
But to act.
In my Mais lecture last year, I set out our plan for solving our productivity problem through a programme of stability, investment and reform,
And when I became Chancellor, I began to put that plan into action.
Stabilising our public finances –
Making the tax and spending decisions to get debt down and to fund our public services sustainably.
Changing the fiscal rules to increase public investment by £120bn over the course of this Parliament…
…and crowding in private investment too…
For road and for rail, for housing and nuclear power.
And reforming our economy:
Ripping up the planning rules so we can build housing and infrastructure across the country…
Bringing the brightest and best to our shores with a new visa regime…
And signing trade deals with the EU, the US and India to help our businesses export around the world.
We have begun to see the results of those plans…
…in falling interest rates and falling NHS waiting lists…
…in rising wages and rising investment.
But I know that real progress takes time.
Our growth was the fastest in the G7 in the first half of this year – but I don’t expect anyone to be satisfied with growth of 1%.
I’m not – and I know there is more to do.
The first part of our planning reforms will add an additional £6.8bn to the size of our economy in the next five years,
But the next part – our planning bill – must complete its passage through Parliament before it can make a difference.
Interest rates, which rose from 0.1% to 5.25% in the last Parliament, have now been cut five times…
…but at 4% they are still a constraint on business borrowing and a burden on family finances.
[political redaction]
…and the choices I make in the Budget this month will be focused on getting inflation falling…
…and creating the conditions for interest rate cuts to support economic growth and improve the cost of living.
I understand the urge for easy answers.
[political redaction]
The UK’s national debt now stands at £2.9trillion:
Equivalent to 95% of GDP.
[political redaction] our borrowing costs were in the middle of the pack compared to other advanced economies…
…but now, we have the highest borrowing costs of any G7 country.
Today, 1 in every £10 of taxpayer’s money is spent on debt interest.
Not on paying that debt down…
…but just paying the interest to our creditors.
At the Budget last year, I changed the fiscal rules to strike a careful balance:
To invest more in capital alongside a credible plan to grow our economy and bring debt down within this Parliament.
That was the right decision to break the cycle of low productivity and low growth.
But that additional investment can only be delivered because markets know that my commitment to the fiscal rules is ironclad.
Some people say we should just sidestep those rules…
…that we can borrow more without consequences by simply reclassifying areas like defence or education.
But no accounting trick can change the basic fact that government debt is sold on financial markets.
There are limits on the price that banks, hedge funds and pension funds are willing to pay for our debt…
…and we are competing constantly with other countries also selling debt .
The more we try and sell, the more it will cost us.
It is important that everyone – the public and politicians – understands that reality.
The less we spend on debt interest, the more we can spend on the priorities of working people…
…our NHS, our schools, our national security…
…the public services essential to a decent society and a strong economy.
At the Budget last year, I provided our public services with a vital cash injection…
…and I’m proud of that choice:
Proud that it [political redaction] that is providing record investment in our NHS getting waiting lists down by over 200,000 since the election,
Proud that it [political redaction] that is investing in our children through the rollout of free breakfast clubs and free school meals,
And proud that it [political redaction] that is funding our armed forces and remains resolute in our NATO commitments.
The alternative is to row back on those investments:
[political redaction]
Stifling our economic growth,
And weakening Britain’s foundations in an unstable world.
I will not repeat those mistakes.
But if we want strong public services in the decades to come, then we must recognise that productivity and efficiency are not only a challenge for business, but they are a challenge for our public sector too.
At the Spending Review I announced £14bn of efficiencies per year to be delivered by 2029:
Cutting government spend on consultancies,
Getting rid of bureaucratic quangos and regulators,
And driving efficiency through AI and digital technologies.
But I know that there is more to do,
In the Budget and beyond, I will continue to drive for more productive and more efficient public services, right across government…
…making savings and rooting out waste wherever I find it.
[political redaction]
When I was appointed Chancellor, people put their faith in me to take our country forward…
…not to be swayed by political convenience…
…not to always do what is popular, but to do what is right.
At the Budget, I will continue to deliver on the priorities of the British people:
Cutting NHS waiting lists, cutting the national debt and cutting the cost of living.
And in the context of the long-term challenges on our productivity and heightened global uncertainty…
…any Chancellor of any party would be standing here today, facing the choices that I face.
The difference is in the priorities – and the values – that will guide those choices:
Mine will be a Budget for growth with fairness at its heart…
…and a Budget that supports businesses – to create jobs and to innovate.
As I take my decisions on both tax and spend…
…I will do what is necessary to protect families from high inflation and interest rates…
…to protect our public services from a return to austerity…
…and to ensure that the economy that we hand down to future generations is secure, with debt under control.
If we are to build the future of Britain together, we will all have to contribute to that effort…
…each of us must do our bit for the security of our country and the brightness of its future.
There is a reward for getting these decisions right,
To build more resilient public finances – with the headroom to withstand global turbulence…
…giving business the confidence to invest and leaving government freer to act when the situation calls for it,
To continue to invest in our infrastructure and our industry to build a stronger economy,
And to get the cost of borrowing down – spending less on debt interest, and more on schools and our health service.
The Office for Budget Responsibility will make their forecasts at the end of this month…
…but let’s be clear about what forecasts are:
They are not visions of the future…
…they are a look in the rear-view mirror.
The OBR rightly make their predictions based on the data that has gone before…
…but I do not believe that our past has to determine our future…
…or that a stuttering economy, poor productivity and falling living standards is somehow Britain’s destiny.
A brighter future is within our grasp.
We were elected to break with the cycle of decline…
…and this government is determined to see that through.
So we will go further and faster, on planning, on the industrial strategy, on reforming to regulation…
…all to deliver growth throughout our economy, in all parts of our country.
We will bear down on waiting lists, on the cost of living, and on the national debt which compound these challenges…
…and when that requires hard choices, we will act – guided by the interests of working people.
We were elected on a commitment to put country before party; the national interest before political calculation…
…and, whatever challenges come our way – whatever challenges come my way – we will not be swayed from that.
At the Budget this year, I will continue to build the strong foundations to secure Britain’s future.
For a fairer Britain
A more prosperous Britain
A Britain with an economy that works for everyone.
Drylaw Festive Fayre – Only 3 Weeks Away! 
Friday 28th November
1PM – 4PM
Drylaw Neighbourhood Centre
Stalls with crafts, gifts & goodies
Homemade cakes & refreshments
A visit from Santa (for the young and young-at-heart!)
Tombola prizes and more surprises
