Tag: Tracy Gilbert MP

Tracy Gilbert MP shares government response on Syria with local Syrian Group following  constituent concerns 

Scottish Labour MP for Edinburgh North and Leith, Tracy Gilbert, has welcomed the lifting of  sanctions on Syria. 

Tracy Gilbert MP wrote to the Minister for the Middle East, Hamish Falconer MP, following  concerns raised by her constituent, Youssef Al Hariri. Al Hariri contacted Tracy Gilbert’s office  expressing his deep concern about the ongoing sanctions in Syria. In response, the Minister  confirmed that the UK had recently revised aspects of its Syria sanctions regime. 

As of 6 March, the UK government lifted asset freezes on 24 Syrian entities including the Central  Bank of Syria, Syrian Arab Airlines, and energy companies.

In a letter from the Minister for the  Middle East to Tracy Gilbert MP, he confirmed that: “On 6th March we lifted asset freezes on 24  Syrian entities that were previously used by the Assad regime to fund the oppression of the  Syrian people, including the Central Bank of Syria, Syrian Arab Airlines, and energy companies. 

“These de-listings underscore our commitment to help the people of Syria rebuild their country  and economy.” 

Speaking after the meeting, Tracy Gilbert MP said: ““I was grateful to meet with members of the Syrian community here in Edinburgh and to share  the government’s response.

“While these policy changes were already underway, it’s thanks to input from constituents like Youssef Al Hariri that the UK government takes the positive  decisions to support Syria as it tries to end the decade long civil war, move on from the  oppression of the Assad regime and develop for the future.” 

Youssef Al Hariri said: “I am grateful to Tracy Gilbert for taking the time to visit our group today  and for bringing positive news. This is an important step forward by the British Government, and  it is most welcome.

“However, it is vital that this positive progression continues and at a swift  pace to avoid further instability in Syria. I look forward to working closely with Tracy and her  team as we continue to push for peace.”

Over 78,000 People in Edinburgh Set to Benefit from Increase in State Pension

Tracy Gilbert, Scottish Labour Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith, has today welcomed the announcement that 78,393 individuals in Edinburgh will benefit from an increase in the state pension, a significant boost for pensioners in the constituency. 

The rise will help alleviate some of the financial pressures that many pensioners face, providing them with greater security and stability in their later years. 

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “Across the city 78,393 people will see an increase in their state pensions. This is exactly the kind of action that the Labour Government will take to support those who have worked hard.  

When budgets are tight this will be a much-welcomed increase. It is a reminder that Labour will always fight to protect pensioners and ensure they can retire with dignity and security.” 

Tracy Gilbert MP presents North East Edinburgh with CAP+ Community Alcohol Partnership of the Year Award

On Wednesday (April 2nd), Edinburgh North and Leith MP Tracy Gilbert presented the Community Alcohol Partnership award to the North East Edinburgh division for their Innovative Youth Engagement and Community Impact efforts at an event at Westminster.

A partnership set up to tackle underage drinking has been rewarded for its work. The North East Edinburgh Community Alcohol Partnership was named ‘CAP+ of the Year’ by national organisation Community Alcohol Partnerships (CAP) at its annual awards ceremony in the Houses of Parliament on 2nd April 2025.

CAP sets up and supports local partnerships that aim to reduce alcohol harm in children and young people, improve their health and well-being and enhance their communities.

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “I was honoured to present the 2025 CAP+ Award to North East Edinburgh.

“It’s fantastic to see their hard work and dedication being recognised, especially in light of the remarkable achievement of a 56% reduction in weekly alcohol consumption among 13-15 year olds in Edinburgh and Orkney. This progress is a direct result of the strong local partnerships that have been established.

“These services are vital for our young people. CAPS’ commitment to working alongside them has produced incredible outcomes.

“I want to extend a huge congratulations to all the divisions across the UK for their remarkable achievements.”

North East Edinburgh CAP was recognised for its exceptional efforts in addressing underage drinking and fostering positive change among young people in the local community.

Led by Police Officers Lauren Munro and Ania Morrison, the CAP has demonstrated outstanding creativity and dedication in tackling complex youth-related issues.

Lauren and Ania commented: “We had another great year working with CAP. With the invaluable mentoring and continuous support from the national CAP team we were able to come together with other partner agencies to deliver numerous projects over the course of 2024.

“We’re really honoured to accept this award.”

Kate Winstanley, Director of Community Alcohol Partnerships said: “The North East Edinburgh CAP, under the leadership of PC’s Munro and PC Morrison, is a brilliant example of innovation and effectiveness.

“Their creative initiatives and unwavering commitment to engaging with vulnerable young people have made a real difference in their community. This award is a well-deserved recognition of their outstanding work.”