Following information from the public, Police executed warrants at three addresses in the Wester Hailes and Stenhouse areas yesterday (Friday, 12 April, 2024).
Drugs with an estimated value of around £38,000, a significant amount of cash and other valuable items were recovered.
A 44-year-old man was arrested in connection and enquiries are ongoing.
Police would like to thank the local community for their support.
Charities and community groups providing free immigration advice could be charged fees from the government for the first time, putting the services under threat, Deidre Brock MP has said.
The Edinburgh North and Leith has written to the UK Government raising her concerns about the proposal to charge fees for regulation of the free services.
Currently providers of free immigration advice have their fees to the arms-length regulator, the Office of the Immigration Services Commissioner (OISC), waived, but under the Home Office proposals, they will have to pay an initial registration fee of up to £538 for their organisation, together with £520 for every adviser. A reduced annual fee would be paid for each year after that.
The proposal is included in a Home Office consultation on the fee structure of the OISC which runs until June.
Concerns that these costs will threaten the availability of free immigration advice services was flagged with Ms Brock by the Citizens Rights Project which has started a petition to the Home Office on the issue.
Ms Brock said: “It’s hard to believe the UK Government could make charities pay for giving free, reliable immigration advice to people who desperately need it. Accurate advice is essential to make sure the immigration system works fairly, efficiently and safely for everyone – the government should be boosting access to free support, not threatening it.
“I know from my work in Edinburgh North and Leith how big the unfilled need is for immigration advice. Many folk who turn up at my surgeries cannot afford hefty legal fees and don’t know where to turn to get some support with the labyrinth of regulations.
“If they can’t get regulated support, vulnerable people are more likely to seek advice from unscrupulous scammers giving bad advice, damaging their case, their finances and their lives in the UK.
“Recent changes to immigration rules suggest the UK Government are hellbent on making life as difficult as possible for people who just want to work hard and build a life here. They have raised the minimum wage a UK citizen must earn to settle with a spouse from overseas to £29,000, blocking many Scots from coming back from abroad with their families.
“They have increased the salary for a skilled worker visa to £38,700 – blocking even more talent from coming to our shores. They have stopped people working as carers from having the right to bring their partners – showing how little they value the lives of people doing essential work.”
“Now they are putting free immigration advice under threat for vulnerable people.
“If the UK Government insists on making the immigration system ever more complex, the least they can do is waive the fees for the charities and community groups who are helping people navigate their draconian system.
“I have written to the UK Government asking them for a rethink on this short-sighted proposal (letter below – Ed.)”.
Consultation on OISC fees:
Petition ‘Free Immigration Advice is Under Threat:
Edinburgh’s new local development plan has received support from the Scottish Government.
City Plan 2030 – which sets out the strategy for development, proposals, and policies to shape development and inform planning decisions in the coming years – was subject to a 15 month-long examination by the Scottish Government Reporter.
In the report on the examination, published this week, the Reporter supported significant elements of the Plan – including affordable housebuilding targets, mixed used commercial development, and ambitious and sustainable development plans for West Edinburgh.
Planning Convener Cllr James Dalgleish said: “Our ambitious City Plan 2030 meets the needs of the Capital’s growing population, making better use of land across all neighbourhoods, and supporting our commitment to be net zero by 2030. I welcome the news that the Reporter has recognised and endorsed these ambitions, with only minor changes required to the Plan.
“We want to strengthen communities and make sure that our policies focus on the health and wellbeing of our residents. We want to build sustainable places where people can afford to buy or rent their homes, walk, or wheel to educational and healthcare facilities, enjoy cultural and sporting activities and easily access public transport to visit other parts of Edinburgh.
“Following today’s report, we can move forward with positive changes to our affordable housing policy, with developments now having to include 35% affordable homes. This will help address the housing emergency in Edinburgh. We can also take forward policies on student housing and reducing carbon emissions from new buildings, while our mixed-use approach for commercial developments is also supported.
“We won backing for our plans around creating new sustainable neighbourhoods with a new vision for the west and for sites elsewhere in the city to be transformed into net zero neighbourhoods fit for the 21st Century. This is all consistent with our 20-minute neighbourhood approach as well as directing development to and maximising the use of brownfield land rather than allocating new greenfield housing sites.
“I’d like to thank all those residents, community groups and businesses who contributed to this Plan and acknowledge the hard work of Council officers who’ve spent years preparing this complex submission. The fact that so few changes were made as a result of the Examination is testament to all the dedicated individuals who contributed to this Plan.
“I’m looking forward to final approval and implementation of City Plan 2030 – contributing to the ongoing success and sustainability of our great Capital City.”
A final version of City Plan 2030 will be considered by the Council’s Planning Committee and Council in June before being submitted to Scottish Ministers as the Plan the Council wants to adopt.
Noting that the Prime Minister did not agree to his call to end the license of arms exports to Israel, the First Minister has written to Lord Ahmad to warn that the UK Government is in danger of being complicit in the killing of innocent civilians.
The full text of the letter: UK arms sales to Israel: letter to Lord Ahmad:
Dear Lord Ahmad,
Thank you for your letter of 8 April replying to mine to the Prime Minister of 23 February and 3 April.
I welcome the UK Government’s stated commitment to International Humanitarian Law, our diplomats’ contribution to finally achieving a UN Security Council Resolution, and the UK’s wider efforts to bring an end to the tragedy befalling the people of the Middle East.
I share with you the grief at the killing of three British aid workers, along with every other innocent man, woman and child killed in Gaza and Israel since Hamas’s terrorist attacks of 7 October and Israel’s response, which has gone far beyond any legitimate response.
In spite of everything contained in your comprehensive reply, I note that you have not agreed to my call to end the license of arms exports to Israel, which means that the UK will continue to arm Israel’s war in Gaza. A war that has left tens of thousands dead, the majority reported to be women and children.
As I said in my letter of 3 April, by continuing to arm Israel, the United Kingdom Government is in danger of being complicit in the killing of innocent civilians.
I find it difficult to comprehend that this continues to be the United Kingdom’s position against the backdrop of the ICJ ruling; UN Security Council, General Assembly and Human Rights Council Resolutions; countless UN officials’ statements about the catastrophic humanitarian situation in Gaza; and the recent open letter signed by over 600 legal professionals warning of potential UK complicity in grave breaches of international law, including violations of the Genocide Convention.
If this, alongside the killing of British nationals among at least 35,000 dead – the majority of whom are innocent women and children – is insufficient to change your policy, what more will it take?
Scottish hunts are attempting to ride roughshod over new anti-hunting laws, according to a new report released by national animal welfare charity the League Against Cruel Sports.
It comes as the first season draws to a close since the Hunting With Dogs (Scotland) Act 2023 was introduced.
Files have been passed to Police Scotland to investigate six incidents from the season, and at least one person has been charged with activities related to illegal hunting.
Robbie Marsland, director of League Scotland, said: “Scottish fox hunts appear to be trying to ride a coach and horses through the new law.
“Whether they’re sneaking around with multiple dogs or saying they are drag hunting, it’s good news that Police Scotland are responding to the League’s evidence and that at least one person has been charged with illegal hunting.
“This will be a clarion call to anyone who thinks they can get round this new law.”
The League’s investigators, who have decades of experience in monitoring and recording hunting, carried out field observations over six months, looking at patterns of behaviour of several hunts.
The Berwickshire, Jed Forest, Lauderdale, Duke of Buccleuch, and Dumfries and Stewartry mounted hunts were visited.
The charity, which this year will mark its centenary, lobbied Holyrood for tighter hunting laws in order to properly protect animals such as fox and hare that are chased and killed by packs of hounds.
It says one of the excuses three of the hunts are using – that they are following an artificial, non-animal-based scent – could be a smokescreen for illegal hunting. None are members of, or abide by the rules of, the Master of Blood Hounds and Drag Hunts Association.
Drag hunting has been an established pursuit for decades, typically takes place away from the natural habitats of hunted animals, and uses bloodhounds rather than fox hounds.
The League has evidence that at least one hunt is using fox hounds trained to follow animal scent rather than artificial scent, and is operating in areas where wild animals would be located.
Robbie said: “The next thing that needs to happen is that the Scottish Government should use its executive power to clamp down on bogus drag hunting and the League is seeking a meeting with the Minister to discuss just that.”
The full report and video footage are available at: https://www.league.org.uk/annual-hunting-report-scotland/
SATURDAY 20 APRIL from 11am – 2pm at WEST PILTON NEIGHBOURHOOD CENTRE
Do you have a creative ‘hobby’ but have never thought of it as a way to earn some £ or to set it up as a business?
Are you at the very early stages of starting a new enterprise like being self-employed or a sole trader, setting up a business or social enterprise? Keen to learn more, share your skills, get some advice or support on next steps?
Or maybe you are an established entrepreneur, business owner, sole trader or self-employed person looking to share your skills and knowledge with others in your community?
At the Business in Bloom event, everyone is welcome, no matter what stage you are at on your enterprise journey.
We believe everyone has something important to contribute, and by working together we can make a positive difference – Small Steps, Big Impact! 
To find out more about the event and sign up for your FREE place, visit: https://www.eventbrite.co.uk/…/business-in-bloom…
NEW COLLABORATION WITH PRIME VIDEO
The National Film and Television School (NFTS) and the Sean Connery Foundation are delighted to announce the first intake of 26 emerging filmmakers who will join the prestigious Sean Connery Talent Lab, set to begin later this month in Leith.
In an exciting development, the Talent Lab is also proud to welcome Prime Video as its newest collaborator.
Prime Video’s contribution will form part of Prime Video Pathway, the multifaceted training initiative set up by the streamer to open up access to jobs in the TV and film industry across the UK. This marks the expansion of a successful collaboration between Prime Video and the NFTS, running alongside other positive initiatives delivered by the two organisations, such as the Prime Video Craft Academy.
With the Sean Connery Talent Lab, Prime Video will join a wide range of industry organisations, trusts and foundations dedicated to working with the NFTS to foster the next generation of creative talent.
Under the seasoned leadership of renowned Scottish film producer Chris Young, the Sean Connery Talent Lab, named in honour of the legendary Scottish actor and supported by the Sean Connery Foundation, will embark on its mission to discover and nurture a new wave of filmmaking luminaries.
Chris Young, whose legacy includes founding the award-winning Young Films, brings invaluable experience and vision to the Talent Lab, with a career spanning critically acclaimed and award-winning film and television productions including The Inbetweeners.
Following an extensive search for the most promising ‘on the rise’ creative talent across Scotland and the UK, the final 26 participants were selected from hundreds of applicants, with each showcasing a diverse range of skills across writing, directing, producing, cinematography and editing disciplines.
Introducing the Sean Connery Talent Lab Participants:
WRITERS / DIRECTORS
“To get the chance to bring my short film to life with the support of the Sean Connery Talent Lab is mind-bogglingly thrilling. I hope to come away from the experience a stronger storyteller with a few more industry connections and to have found like-minded creatives with whom I will continue to collaborate long into the future.” – Writer/Director Mairead Hamilton
PRODUCERS
“It feels like a full circle moment to have such an icon of Scottish history – Sir Sean Connery – leaving a legacy that I am now a part of. I can’t wait to see how this bolsters Scottish talent and look forward to working with the rest of the cohort on what will undoubtedly be a strong selection of films!” – Producer Kitty McMurdo-Schad
CINEMATOGRAPHERS
“I believe the Sean Connery Talent Lab will accelerate my career as a cinematographer. The opportunity to train on state-of-the-art equipment, collaborate with other up-and-coming filmmakers, and shoot a short film in gorgeous Scotland will be the catalyst I need to propel myself to a more professional level. This experience will mark a major turning point for me.” – Cinematographer Alyson Thompson
EDITORS
“I am thrilled to be part of a new cohort, and to collaborate with my colleagues to produce an ambitious body of new work which I hope will magnify the energy and force of Scottish film talent.” – Editor Lu Kemp
The Sean Connery Talent Lab offers a rich curriculum, designed to challenge and inspire these emerging filmmakers. Through hands-on training, mentorship by industry professionals, and collaborative projects, participants will develop their skills, culminating in the creation of six short films, working to a budget of £25,000 per project.
With the support of Prime Video and inaugural supporters BBC Film, the Dana and Albert Broccoli Foundation, FirstStage Studios, Blazing Griffin, DNA Films, Hartswood Films, Juniper Trust, LS Productions, the Rank Foundation and Synchronicity Films, the projects are set to serve as significant calling cards for the participants, showcasing their talents at film festivals and industry events worldwide.
The Sean Connery Talent Lab is noteworthy for its accessibility, with the Sean Connery Foundation generously underwriting 70% of the fees for each participant. This initiative highlights the commitment of the NFTS and its umbrella of partners, supporters and collaborators to making world leading training accessible to a broad array of aspiring filmmakers.
Jon Wardle, Director of the NFTS commented: “We are thrilled to welcome Prime Video to the Sean Connery Talent Lab.
“Under the leadership of Chris Young, the Lab embodies our shared commitment to nurturing emerging talent across the UK. We are excited to explore the innovative perspectives and contributions these filmmakers will make to the industry, both within Scotland and on the international stage.”
Chris Young, Head of the Sean Connery Talent Lab shared his enthusiasm, saying: “The addition of Prime Video as our newest collaborator highlights the broad industry support for the Sean Connery Talent Lab.
“Their involvement, along with our other partners and supporters, underscores a collective commitment to fostering a new generation of filmmakers. I am beyond excited to embark on this journey with our newly selected participants.
“Together, we’re not just kicking off a new programme; we’re launching careers and redefining what’s possible for filmmakers across Scotland and the UK.”
Stephane Connery, Chair of the Sean Connery Foundation said: “We are so pleased that Prime Video has joined the extraordinary cohort of committed organisations supporting the Sean Connery Talent Lab and we congratulate the first cohort of students on their admission.
“In establishing the Lab, we hope not only to honour Sir Sean’s Scottish roots, but also to expand the opportunities for employment, both above and below the line, by strengthening Scotland’s reputation as a pivotal destination for film and TV production.”
Jason Connery, Ambassador for the Sean Connery Foundation added: “Scotland’s rich heritage, versatile landscapes and dynamic talent have long contributed to its cinematic success, paving the way for ground-breaking storytelling.
“We are so looking forward to getting to know this talented cohort of filmmakers and are excited to see the stories they create over the course of the next year, inspired by their world-class instructors, their surroundings, and each other.”
For more information, go to: nfts.co.uk/sean-connery-talent-lab
A £3,000 grant provided by Cash for Kids to Edinburgh School Uniform Bank marks a significant contribution towards supporting families in need within the city.
This generous donation will make a considerable difference by easing the financial burden on families when it comes to purchasing school uniforms for their children.
School uniforms are an essential part of educational life, promoting a sense of belonging and equality among students. However, the cost can be a barrier for many families, especially those experiencing financial hardships.
ESUB plays a crucial role in this context, ensuring that all children have access to the necessary attire without the stigma of financial strain. This grant from Cash for Kids not only highlights the importance of community support but also reinforces the idea that education should be accessible to everyone, regardless of their economic background.
Thank you
PILTON YOUTH & CHILDRENS PROJECT
Saturday 13th April
Teen Boutique are back with another pop up shop!
A 47-year-old man has been jailed for life in connection with the death of Paul Smith, who died following a serious assault in the Craigmillar Court area in January 2021.
Paul Smith was conveyed to the Royal Infirmary of Edinburgh, around 2.20am on Wednesday, 6 January, 2021, where he subsequently died on Sunday, 10 January, 2021.
John Blyth was found guilty of murder at the High Court in Edinburgh on Friday, 15 March, 2024. At the High Court in Stirling today (Friday, 12 April, 2024), he was sentenced to life imprisonment, with a minimum term of 13 years.
Detective Inspector Keith Taylor said: “This was a brutal, senseless attack and John Blyth will now face the consequences of his actions.
“Whilst this sentencing cannot change what John Blyth did to Paul, I hope that it brings some kind of closure for Paul’s family and friends.
“I would also like to thank Paul’s family for their support throughout the investigation, as well as commend them for their strength and dignity throughout this ordeal.”
