The devolution of energy powers to Scotland would help deliver fairness for families and bring energy bills down, Energy Minister Stephen Gethins told MSPs yesterday.
The Scottish Parliament has supported a motion calling for the formal transfer of energy policy to Holyrood.
Mr Gethins said such powers would enable the Scottish Government to lower the cost of energy and set policies that work for households, communities and businesses by reducing bills, tackling fuel poverty and securing high-quality jobs.
In line with the Scottish Parliament’s position, the Energy Minister will now urge UK Ministers to formally engage over the devolution of powers.
We are calling on the UK Government to give Scotland full control over its energy.
This will allow Scotland's energy wealth to be used to help Scottish households, communities and businesses.
Mr Gethins said: “This government has been returned with a clear instruction to deliver the benefits of Scotland’s abundant energy resources to households, communities and businesses. That is what we intend to do.
“The future lies in clean, affordable and secure power – strengthening affordability, resilience and competitiveness, and protecting Scottish people and businesses from their energy bills being dictated by events halfway across the world. After the UK Government announced bills would go up again, that is more important than ever.
“Now, with the backing of the Scottish Parliament, we are formally requesting the devolution of powers that we need to maximise our remarkable energy potential, so that it helps to deliver prosperity, security and fairness for the country.”
The Westminster government is unlikely to concede, however.
The Royal Society of Biology and Field Studies Council are asking members of the public to log sightings of key spring indicator species in Signs of Spring citizen science survey.
Sightings of bumblebees, butterflies, bluebells, ladybirds, and dragonflies are being recorded across the UK.
The survey closes on 14 June.
Across the UK, members of the public are being encouraged to get outside and track their sightings of insects and flowers as part of the annual Signs of Spring survey run by Field Studies Council in partnership with the Royal Society of Biology.
Now in its third year, the results of the survey will help to log species emergence across the UK, particularly in light of the climate crisis.
Sightings of dragonflies, bumblebees, bluebells, ladybirds, and butterflies are in high demand.
Daniel Asaw, Biodiversity Training Programme Team Leader at Field Studies Council, said: “It’s been amazing to see this year’s records coming in for the Signs of Spring citizen science survey.
“We’ve already passed the 3,000 record mark, and there’s plenty of time for people across the UK to get involved and help us build an even clearer picture of how nature is responding to the seasons.
“As we move closer to summer, bumblebees are out in force alongside an array of ladybird species. Bumblebees have traditionally been the most commonly recorded insect in the survey, but this year, ladybirds could easily give them a run for their money.
“Every record counts, so we’re encouraging everyone to get outside, enjoy nature, and submit their sightings before the survey closes.”
The nationwide search is on to find 9,000 volunteers across the country who will be at the heart of the historic Tour de France Grand Départs in summer 2027.
Officially known as JOY Makers, named in line with the Grand Départs’ social impact programme, volunteers will be the heartbeat of both races, bringing the joy of cycling to fans and communities throughout the six stages, and helping to ensure the sport’s most iconic races runs seamlessly.
You can apply now to be a JOY Maker for any of the six stages of the 2027 Grand Départs via www.letourgb.com/volunteer with registrations open from Wednesday 27 May until Tuesday 1 September 2026.
Anyone aged 16 and over is encouraged to apply to be a JOY Maker, with no prior volunteering experience needed to share in this once-in-a-lifetime experience – playing a part in what is set to be Britain’s most-attended sporting event, whilst making lasting memories and developing new skills.
A range of roles to support event operations and enhance spectator experience are available on both the Tour de France and Tour de France Femmes avec Zwift, with full training provided.
To mark the opening of applications and launch the programme, TV presenter and broadcaster Radzi Chinyanganya joined a group of current volunteers getting behind the Grand Départs.
Radzi Chinyanganyasaid: “I wouldn’t be where I am today if I wasn’t a volunteer when I was in my teens. I was a media volunteer and now I’m working in media – I’m living proof that volunteering can lead to something amazing. I’m so excited for everyone to get involved – it will truly be an unforgettable experience.
“Knowing what you want to do when you’re young can be intimidating and it’s also unprecedently hard to get work experience at the moment. Applying to be a JOY Maker can help you explore new opportunities and navigate your career path, all whilst being part of making history.
“Whoever you are, whatever your age or your background – JOY Makers is open to everyone – if you want to bring joy, we want you.”
The JOY Makers programme is designed to be accessible to all, from those with experience volunteering at major events and British Cycling activities to first-time volunteers, in particular from underrepresented groups in volunteering, including 16–25-year-olds.
Those aged 18 to 25 years old will be eligible to join the Readiness to Work scheme, that will be launched as part of the JOY social impact programme. The scheme will provide a comprehensive package of employability skills training and career-focused mentoring across multiple sectors. Coupling this with the volunteering experience will provide young people with a well-rounded and practical work experience offer.
Together, the volunteer programme and Readiness to Work scheme aim to leave behind a passionate and skilled collective of volunteers, creating a lasting legacy for the Grand Départs in communities across the country. In addition to this legacy, British Cycling – supported by partners across the three nations – is urging government to commit £30million critical capital investment to deliver a range of new and upgraded cycling facilities across Britain, reaching underserved communities.
Culture and Communities Convener Margaret Graham said: “The Tour de France Grand Départ is a landmark moment for Edinburgh and a chance to share the beauty of our city with millions of people across the world.
“Beyond the excitement of the race itself, the event will bring lasting benefits by supporting local businesses, improving health and wellbeing, and helping strengthen our commitment to active travel.
“We know how valuable volunteering is to make sure major events and festivals run safely and smoothly, as they have done so often here in Edinburgh, but also how rewarding it is for the volunteers themselves.
“I’d urge anyone interested to get involved and apply – and to play a part in this incredible occasion.”
Commenting on the launch of the application portal, Tracy Power, on behalf of JOY, the Grand Départ GB 2027 social impact programme, said: “This is a truly unique volunteering offer and a once-in-a-lifetime opportunity to feel the buzz of being a part of a history-making event, while meeting new people and celebrating your local community.
“The JOY Makers programme will create a core of engaged volunteers across Britain, who are willing to show up and get stuck in, dedicating their time to bring local events and activities to life. This will not only benefit the cycling community but also help our local communities to thrive and bolster employability.
“Whether you have volunteered before, are a regular on a bike or are completely new to volunteering and the world of cycling, everyone is welcome as a JOY Maker. We can’t wait to have you join the team, help us celebrate the joy of cycling and showcase your communities through the Grand Départs.”
To stay up to date with the 2027 Grand Départs and find out more about all six stages, visit letourgb.com
Girlguiding Scotland has today announced the appointment of Kim Atkinson as its new Chief Executive. She joins the organisation’s board of trustees, chief commissioner team, staff team and 9,000 volunteers in supporting 40,000 girls and young women across Scotland.
Kim will lead the organisation’s strategy, recognising the vital role volunteers play in delivering Girlguiding Scotland’s mission. The strategy is focused on innovation and inspiration, making volunteering with Girlguiding Scotland more attractive, more welcoming and even more rewarding.
Kim joins from the Scottish Sports Association, where she has served as CEO for 16 years, having previously been Chief Officer at Scottish Squash. She is also a trustee of both SCVO (Scottish Council for Voluntary Organisations) and Foundation Scotland and previously chaired ACOSVO (the Association of Chief Officers of Scottish Voluntary Organisations, now Charity Leadership Scotland).
Elaine Rough, Chief Commissioner of Girlguiding Scotland, said: “On behalf of the Board of Trustees and everyone at Girlguiding Scotland, I’m delighted to welcome Kim as our new Chief Executive.
“She brings a wealth of experience from across Scotland’s voluntary sector, a strong understanding of volunteering, and a clear commitment to empowering girls and young women. We look forward to working with Kim to help even more girls know they can do anything, supported by our dedicated volunteers.”
Kim Atkinson said: “I am delighted and honoured to be appointed Chief Executive of Girlguiding Scotland at a time when girls have never needed more support and inspiration to know they can do anything. Girlguiding Scotland is an organisation shaped by girls, for girls, and I am proud to become part of its future.
“If there is anything more inspiring than seeing girls achieve something they did not think was possible, it is helping them to do it. That means building confidence and skills, helping them find and amplify their voice, removing barriers, and showing them they can make a positive difference in the world.
“That is what makes Girlguiding unique, and the opportunity to play even a small part in that is truly compelling. Through Girlguiding, girls can find a place where they belong and can thrive.
“Reading the manifesto created by Girlguiding Scotland’s youth voice panel, Speak Out and learning that 1 in 3 girls feel sad most days, 79% experience anxiety, and 54% believe it will be difficult to progress in a male-dominated field, motivated me to join this movement.
“After 16 years of advocating to decision-makers across Scotland, I am deeply committed to helping empower this panel as they champion a better future for girls across the country.
“Like 1 in 3 women in Scotland, I am an alumna of the movement, and I strongly believe in the power of guiding to provide a unique and safe space where girls can have fun, be happy, and fulfil their potential. My experiences as a Brownie and Guide were immensely formative, and they sparked lifelong commitments to volunteering and women’s leadership.
“As Chief Executive, I look forward to working alongside our incredible volunteers and staff to deliver a shared vision of an equal world, where girls can find their voice, discover their best selves and make a positive difference, today, tomorrow and together.”
Kim will take up her role at Girlguiding Scotland in August when current CEO, Denise Spence, who has been CEO of Girlguiding Scotland since 2013, will retire.
The Scottish Government and its partners have made progress in cutting the criminal courts backlog and modernising justice services – but risks remain to delivering much needed reforms.
There were around 13,268 outstanding scheduled trials at the end of 2025/26 – around a third of the number of the backlog’s peak in 2022. However, a rise in complex cases, such as historic sexual abuse and organised crime, has led to high levels of backlogs for courts dealing with the most serious issues. Outstanding scheduled High Court trials rose to 1,002 at the end of 2025/26 – almost three times pre-pandemic levels. This is creating pressures across the system.
The Scottish Government has published a delivery plan for modernising the criminal justice system. There has been mixed progress with projects designed to improve efficiency, with some delayed or still to start. There has also been limited evaluation and public reporting on progress, making it difficult to know what impact projects are having.
The Scottish Government and its partners have improved how they engage with people who use court services. But services users are not actively involved in work to make the system more efficient.
Progress has been made in cutting the criminal courts backlog and modernising justice services in Scotland.
But a rise in serious cases has put pressure on the justice system and increased the need for reform.
Stephen Boyle, Auditor General for Scotland, said: “Criminal court business has changed significantly. The overall number of outstanding trials has reduced considerably since 2022. But the rise in serious, resource-intensive cases in recent years is impacting on the High Court backlog and the wider justice system.
“The Scottish Government and its partners have set out how efficiencies will be delivered. But their planned modernisation projects must be supported by more robust delivery arrangements, clarity on the resources required, and effective collaboration.”
The UK Government has published a list of 125 everyday essentials – including fruit, oils and core pantry staples – targeted for tariff reductions, alongside uprating mileage rates to support working people with the cost of living
Government launches consultation on suspending tariffs on OVER 100 everyday essentials with the full list now available.
This Government is the first in 15 years to uprate mileage rates for 3 million people who use their own vehicle for work, saving over £120 a year for a worker doing 6,000 business miles.
The support is an additional saving for motorists following the Chancellor’s third extension to the fuel duty freeze which has put another £120 back into their pocket since last year.
Working people are set to benefit from further cost of living support, as the Government publishes a list of over 100 everyday essentials set to see targeted cuts to tariffs alongside uprating mileage rates for the first time in 15 years.
The consultation is seeking views from businesses and other stakeholders on the potential impacts of a second package. It covers a wide range of everyday essentials, from fresh fruit and vegetables, oil and baked goods, to chocolate, sauces, and soft drinks.
The list of 125 items include garlic, avocados, mangoes, nectarines, vegetable oil, olive oil and baked beans. This builds on the tariff suspension announced in April.
In parallel, we are also seeking views on whether suspension of tariffs on certain fertilisers could help farmers cope with the impact of rising fertiliser prices as a result of the conflict in the Middle East.
Chancellor of the Exchequer, Rachel Reeves, said: “The war in Iran isn’t our war, but one we will need to respond to, and my priority is keeping prices down for households and businesses.
“That’s why we’re freezing fuel duty, increasing the mileage rate for the first time in 15 years and slashed VAT temporarily this Summer to help reduce the cost of days out.”
This comes as carers, plumbers, builders and millions of other workers across the country who use their own vehicle on the job will have cheaper journeys after the Chancellor uprated mileage rates last week.
In the largest ever uprating of the rates a 10p per mile increase in tax‑free mileage rates for this tax year, backdated to April 2026, has been introduced to ease the cost of living for hardworking Britons.
Increasing the tax free per mile rates from 45p for the first 10,000 miles to 55p per mile will save around £120 for a worker doing 6,000 business miles. Up to two million employees and one million self-employed people will benefit.
This is in addition to savings drivers will make from the Chancellor’s further extension to the fuel duty freeze until the end of the year. That’s the third time Rachel Reeves has frozen fuel duty to support motorists, saving them £120 since last year.
Recognising how farmers and hauliers have been particularly exposed to high fuel prices, and their importance to UK supply chains, more relief has been announced.
For farmers and others who use red diesel and rebated biodiesel, the rate for those fuels has been cut by over a third – the lowest in over two decades. For hauliers, a road tax holiday has been put in place for a year from 1 July.
Transport Secretary Heidi Alexander said: “We are a government firmly on the side of drivers, and that means acting when hardworking people are being left out of pocket.
“The people who use their own vehicle for work are the backbone of our country – the carers, the tradespeople and the public sector workers who keep services running. For too long, they have been expected to shoulder rising costs with support that simply has not kept up.
“We’re doing all we can to ease everyday pressures on working people – that means real money back in their pockets and delivering for the people who keep Britain moving.”
Andrea Egan, General Secretary, Unison said:“This simple measure will provide immediate help for countless frontline workers in public services. Particularly at a time when living costs are going through the roof once again.
“People who need their own cars for work have been left thousands of pounds out of pocket for far too many years.
“UNISON has campaigned hard for this long overdue change. It’s good to know the chancellor has listened to the concerns of staff penalised by frozen rates.
“There’s still more to do to ensure no one is losing out and the union will continue to campaign for more over the coming months.”
This follows a much wider package of support rolled out by the Chancellor last week branded ‘Great British Summer Savings’.
It includes free bus travel for 5–15-year-olds in England, VAT slashed on children’s meals in restaurants, and VAT cut for all admissions to theatres, theme parks and other attractions.
This will help families enjoy the weekend treats, days out and staycations that make life enjoyable during the cost-of-living squeeze caused by the war in the Middle East while supporting the businesses that depend on summer footfall.
Cutting £150 on average of costs from household energy bills, freezing prescription charges and rail fares, and increasing the national minimum and living wages by hundreds of pounds are some of the actions taken at the Budget that are continuing to support families each month.
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Art Matters: New Strategic Plan 2026-2030 to focus on children and young people
Free access to ticketed exhibitions for under 18s
Delivery of The Art Works building is a key priority
The National Galleries of Scotland has revealed it contributed £253million to Scotland’s economy through tourism, jobs and cultural activity in 2024/2025, according to a new independent report by BiGGAR Economics. The news comes as the organisation outlines its commitment to children and young people with the launch of its Strategic Plan 2026-2030: Art Matters. Read more about the strategy here.
The new strategy sets out the first steps in a long-term vision to transform access to Scotland’s national art collection on the path to 2050 and beyond. It’s driven by a clear ambition: to remove barriers to participation so that everyone in Scotland, regardless of age or background, can experience the benefits of art. From encouraging creativity to improving wellbeing, accessing and engaging with their national art collection is vital.
Throughout the duration of the strategy, the National Galleries of Scotland aims to increase the number of visitors aged 26 and under by 9%, recognising that early encounters with art can spark lifelong curiosity, creativity and wellbeing.
It will do this through:
Free entry to ticketed exhibitions for children and young people under 18, kicking off with Gwen John: Strange Beauties and Catherine Opie: To Be Seen. The rest of the galleries are already free to come and enjoy, ensuring cost is not a barrier to participation
A revised schools offer to connect more learners with the collection
Strengthening the families programme to support early engagement
The National Galleries of Scotland has three galleries in Edinburgh – the National, Modern and Portrait. In 2025/2026 they welcomed over 2.6million visitors, making them Scotland’s second most popular free attraction.
Discover treasures from Botticelli to Titian, the very best modern and contemporary art from Joan Eardley and Jasleen Kaur, famous faces and contemporary portraits of pop culture icons, and the largest collection of Scottish art in the world.
As an integral part of Edinburgh’s visitor proposition the National Galleries of Scotland are part of the foundations of Scotland’s tourism sector. Identified as a key motivator for almost two thirds of those visiting Edinburgh and almost half of those visiting Scotland, according to the report.
As well as conserving and researching the national collection, the National Galleries of Scotland is committed to reaching the widest possible audience through an active programme, including partnerships across Scotland, the UK and abroad, as well as online.
Key to the delivery of the Strategic Plan is The Art Works, a major project to build a new free-to-visit home in north Edinburgh for over 130,000 artworks, complementing those on display in the National, Portrait and Modern galleries or out on loan.
It’s a critical strategic enabler that will transform how Scotland’s art collection is experienced, shared and enjoyed, and support the National Galleries of Scotland to care for, preserve and share the nation’s art.
It will also make it easier for art to be loaned to local galleries across Scotland, the wider United Kingdom and internationally.
The National Galleries of Scotland’s ambition is that every child in Scotland will have the opportunity to interact with their nation’s art, by visiting The Art Works, seeing it online, in education or through loans in their local community. The Scottish Government has committed £56million over three years to help the National Galleries of Scotland to create The Art Works.
To deliver this incredible new building the National Galleries of Scotland will need to reprioritise some other areas of work. Its summer exhibition at the Royal Scottish Academy building will move to a biennial schedule, following this summer’s Catherine Opie: To Be Seen the next exhibition planned to take place in 2028. This shift will enable the National Galleries of Scotland colleagues to prioritise The Art Works and to focus on bringing it to life.
Following opening of The Art Works the National Galleries of Scotland will look to its next capital project to renovate the Mound Level galleries at the National.
Art Matters also reaffirms the National Galleries of Scotland’s ongoing commitment to anti-oppression and anti-ableism, ensuring that its spaces, programmes and workforce continue to be inclusive and representative. This work will be embedded across all areas of activity, from how art is displayed and interpreted, to how audiences and communities are engaged.
The strategy is underpinned by growing evidence of the powerful role art plays in supporting health and wellbeing. 84% of visitors to the National Galleries of Scotland report that their visit has a positive impact on their wellbeing.
This aligns with emerging global research, including a recent study from University College London showing that regular engagement with arts and culture can have measurable biological benefits. In 2024/25, the health and wellbeing benefits generated by the National Galleries of Scotland were valued at £31.8million, the report states.
Anne Lyden, Director-General at the National Galleries of Scotland, said: “Art matters because it has the power to change lives. Our new strategy sets out how we will increase access to Scotland’s national art collection over the next four years so that more people, and particularly children and young people, can enjoy the benefits art brings.
“These are our first steps towards 2050. By focusing on children and young people, removing barriers and investing in the future, we can ensure that art continues to enrich lives across Scotland. The impact of art goes far beyond the gallery walls, it supports mental and physical health, fosters connection and contributes to public wellbeing. Art matters for us to have a healthy and thriving society.
“Our priority is the creation and opening of The Art Works building. This vital investment will enable everything that follows.
It is the foundation for how we will care for the collection, expand access and share Scotland’s art for generations to come.”
Art Matters represents a significant milestone in a longer journey for the National Galleries of Scotland.
It lays the groundwork for a future where every child and young person in Scotland can build a meaningful relationship with their national art collection. By investing in access, participation and infrastructure now, the National Galleries of Scotland is positioning itself to deliver lasting cultural, social and wellbeing impact for decades to come.
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