Tracy Gilbert MP has called on Rockstar Games, creator of Grand Theft Auto, to recognise the Rockstar Game Workers Union, urging the company to give workers an independent voice in their workplace.
In a letter to Rockstar Games, Tracy highlighted the importance of trade unions in protecting workers’ rights and called on the company to show leadership by voluntarily recognising the union.
Rockstar Games is one of the world’s leading video game developers, and Gilbert said that as an industry leader, the company has an opportunity to set an example for workers’ rights across the games sector.
Only one other UK games studio currently recognises a trade union, and Gilbert has urged Rockstar to take steps to progress discussions with workers and their representatives.
If Rockstar does not voluntarily recognise the union, Tracy has pledged her support for the Independent Workers’ Union of Great Britain’s (IWGB) application for statutory recognition through the Central Arbitration Committee.
Tracy Gilbert MP said: “I strongly support the work of trade unions and believe that every worker should have an independent voice in their workplace. Rockstar Games has an opportunity to show leadership and recognise the union representing its workers.
“I look forward to hearing what steps Rockstar is taking to move discussions forward.”
Leith has been named among the first-ever UK Town of Culture 2028 shortlist, marking a major achievement for the community and everyone who has helped showcase the area’s unique history, creativity and culture.
The UK Town of Culture is a new UK Government initiative celebrating the contribution towns make to the UK’s cultural identity. The inaugural competition attracted 398 applications from across the UK, with just 15 towns selected to progress to the next stage.
Tracy Gilbert MP has welcomed the announcement and praised the dedication of local organisations, community groups and residents who worked together to develop Leith’s bid.
Tracy Gilbert MP said:“Leith is a place like no other, with a proud history, a vibrant cultural scene and an incredible community spirit.
“I want to thank every local organisation, community group and individual who has given their time, energy and passion to help bring this bid together. The dedication, creativity and commitment shown by everyone involved has been so remarkable.
“Being shortlisted as one of only 15 towns from almost 400 applications is a fantastic achievement and a testament to the hard work of everyone who has played a part in telling Leith’s story.
“I am incredibly proud of Leith and delighted to see the community’s efforts recognised on a national stage. I look forward to continuing to support the bid as it moves forward to the next stage.”
As a shortlisted town, Leith will now move forward in the competition and receive a £60,000 bid development grant to help strengthen its application.
John Swinney First Minister meets Muslim community members following Edinburgh attacks
The Scottish Government stands in solidarity with Muslim communities across Scotland, First Minister John Swinney has said, as he visited local Mosques in the wake of the recent attacks in Edinburgh.
The First Minister heard directly from victims of the attack at Broomhouse Mosque, before travelling to Annandale Mosque to meet members of the local community and senior Mosque leaders. He was joined on both visits by Superintendent Neil Wilson of Police Scotland’s Edinburgh Division.
Mr Swinney said Scotland stands for inclusivity and compassion, adding: “I unequivocally condemn the heinous attacks in Edinburgh, and my thoughts are firmly with all those who have been affected.
!Let me be absolutely clear, no one in Scotland should fear being targeted because of who they are.
“Any form of hatred, prejudice, intolerance or violence on our streets is completely unacceptable – and perpetrators will be brought to justice.
“The Scottish Government is working closely with Police Scotland and partners to ensure appropriate support is in place to support public safety following the incident in Edinburgh.
“I am particularly mindful of the impact recent events can have on those already feeling vulnerable, and I understand that many people will be feeling anxious.
“I want to give them my complete assurance that my government stands firmly in solidarity with Muslim communities across the country.
“We will do everything we possibly can do to ensure everyone in every community feels safe, protected and included and we will always stand against those who would seek to divide our communities.
“Acts of hatred and division will not define Scotland, our shared values of respect, inclusion and compassion will. Together, we must continue working together to strengthen trust and understanding in all of our communities.”
City council leader Councillor Jane Meagher said: “I was shocked and outraged to hear about the appalling incidents that took place across the city on Friday.
“I, and fellow Councillors, stand in solidarity with those affected by what must have been a deeply traumatic experience. My thoughts are with those injured in the attacks and I wish them a quick recovery.
“I want to pay tribute to Police Scotland, including counter terrorism officers, and other emergency services for their quick action.
“I absolutely echo the words of Police Scotland that there is no place for racism or faith-based hate. I condemn all acts of racist violence and disorder – there is simply no place for it in our city.
“Those in our Muslim communities may understandably be feeling worried and concerned. I want to reassure that we will be working closely with Police colleagues and other partners to do all we can to make sure that communities across the city are safe and supported.
“Edinburgh is a proud diverse and welcoming city – strengthened by those from all backgrounds, cultures, faiths and walks of life that live here. Incidents like this remind us of the need to stand together against racism and prejudice.”
Local MP Tracy Gilbert said: “There is no place for hatred or Islamophobia in Edinburgh.“
Thank you. Thank you. Walking up this street two years ago was the proudest moment of my life. A new Labour government. The first in 14 years. A page in our country’s history turned after years of disappointment and despair.
The chance to change the lives of millions of people for the better. That’s what I came into politics for. The journey to that point was not easy.
Six years ago, I inherited a Labour Party that was politically, financially and morally bankrupt. I was told, time and time again, that my party was finished.
That we were consigned to history, that a majority at the general election, let alone a landslide majority, was impossible. But we proved those people wrong because we changed our party.
Ripping out the poison of antisemitism, restoring trust on the economy, defence, and national security.
And becoming a party that, once again, stood proudly with, not against, our national flag. The hard work of change was with a singular purpose. Not power for power’s sake but to change Britain for the better.
To build a fairer country, with dignity and respect, where everyone is seen, everyone is valued. Wealth and opportunity for all, not just the privileged few. And look at what we’ve achieved in just two years.
An economy that is stronger, growing faster than our peers. Wages rising faster than inflation in every single month since we came to power. Investment secured, infrastructure being built. An end to austerity, with the fastest fall in NHS waiting lists for 17 years.
The biggest improvement in rights for workers and renters in a generation. The biggest uplift in defence spending since the Cold War. Small boat crossings falling, asylum hotels closing, protecting young people from social media, and half a million children being lifted out of poverty because of the choices that I made.
Our reputation in the world restored, with Britain once again standing up for decency, respect and the rule of law. Securing trade dues, standing with Ukraine, standing up for our values, and rebuilding our relationship with our allies in Europe.
Change promised by a Labour government. Change fought for by a Labour government, change delivered by a Labour government.
But I know the question being asked now is not who was best placed to change the Labour Party, to take us into power, and to begin the vital work of improving lives for millions of people. Those questions have been answered.
The question my party is asking now is whether I am best placed to lead us into the next general election. I have heard the answer of my parliamentary party to that question. And I accept that answer with good grace.
Every decision I’ve taken has been about putting the country I love first. That is why I will resign as leader of the Labour Party. I have spoken to His Majesty the King this morning to inform him of my decision.
I will ask the National Executive Committee of the Labour Party to set out a timetable with nominations opening on 9 July and completed by the summer recess. In the case of a contest, this will ensure a new leader is in place before Parliament returns in September.
I will remain in post as Prime Minister until the contest is complete. And I will do everything I can to ensure an orderly handover of power.
I will also give my successor my full and unequivocal support, knowing that they will inherit a Britain that is far stronger and fairer than the one I inherited two years ago, better prepared for the challenges ahead, and better able to ensure the Labour Party secures a second term in office.
I want to thank all of those friends and colleagues who have been at my side for these past six years or so for their incredible commitment, service and support.
I want to thank the brilliant No 10 staff and our country’s extraordinary civil service, who dedicate their lives to public service.
And when I leave, the biggest job in the country. I shall spend more time on the most important job. Being the best husband I can to my fantastic wife, Vic, who has been a rock by my side, through good times and bad. And being the best dad I can to my beautiful children, who are my pride and my joy.
“Keir Starmer led the Labour Party to a historic landslide victory in 2024, ending fourteen years of Conservative government.
“Since then, he has overseen a period of significant reform and renewal under the most difficult circumstances.
“He led the biggest improvement in workers’ and renters’ rights in a generation, alongside the introduction of the Employment Rights Bill, which formed part of a wider programme to rebuild economic security and fairness.
“He has rebuilt our relationship with Europe and has proven to have been able to represent the UKs interests on the international stage.
“Most importantly, he lifted hundreds of thousands of people out of poverty through deliberate policy choices aimed at improving lives across the UK including the removal of the two-child benefit cap.
“I wish him and his family well for the future and thank him for his service to the country at a pivotal moment in its history.”
Brian Leishman MP:
“A change of Prime Minister must mean a change in direction.
“This Labour government still has time to transform the country and improve the lives of millions of people.
“It’s time for real Labour policies that will make people better off and our country a fairer place.”
Momentum:
Socialist Labour …
Former Labour Party leader Jeremy Corbyn:
‘Keir Starmer could have ended child poverty, homelessness and the grotesque levels of inequality in this country.
‘Instead, he abandoned those in need, destroyed our civil liberties and facilitated genocide in Gaza.
‘That is how this Prime Minister will be remembered – and that is the legacy of moral and political bankruptcy he leaves behind.
‘The crises in our society are not going away. Neither are we – and we will keep fighting for a more equal, peaceful and dignified society for all.’
STUC:
FBU general secretary, Steve Wright said: “Whoever replaces Keir Starmer needs to be clear that the status quo has to change.
“The reason we find ourselves with yet another PM standing down is that, like May, Johnson, Truss and Sunak before him, Starmer failed to break with the perceived wisdom of attacking public services, failing to tackle wealth inequality, whilst letting privatised public utilities rip off the people of this country.
“A new Labour leader needs to learn that lesson and learn it fast.
“For FBU members, this means stepping in to end the threat of fire station closures that puts our members and the public’s lives at risk.
“There needs to be investment in the fire and rescue service alongside other public services, and as an affiliated trade union, we will be putting that position before any candidate in a leadership election.
“We cannot have more of the same. If we do, then whoever is elected will inevitably have failed in their role and will be out of office at the earliest opportunity.
“The chance to break with the narrative of the past is now, learn the lessons that previous Prime Ministers failed to do and deliver a better future for our members and the people of this country.”
Tracy Gilbert, Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith, has called on the Israeli government to let aid flow freely into Gaza after travelling to Jordan this week with an International Development Committee delegation to meet senior representatives of the United Nations Relief and Works Agency (UNRWA) and discuss the urgent need to expand humanitarian access into Gaza.
During the visit, Gilbert received briefings on the humanitarian situation and the barriers to aid delivery. UNRWA officials warned that restrictions on aid deliveries are contributing to severe shortages of food, clean water, medical supplies and shelter.
The delegation visited the Jordan Hashemite Charity Organisation (JHCO), which operates a warehouse storing humanitarian aid from a range of organisations, including the UK Government and Medical Aid for Palestinians (MAP). There, Gilbert saw large quantities of food, baby formula and medical supplies, including prosthetics, ready for delivery to Gaza, but was told that much of the aid remains unable to reach those in need.
The delegation visit came on the same week that the UK Foreign Secretary, Rt Hon. Yvette Cooper MP, told the House of Commons that less than half of the aid promised in the 20-Point Peace Place is entering Gaza.
In the House of Commons, she said: “There are families without shelter and a public health crisis, with rodent infestations and communicable disease, and we are currently at barely half the level of the 4,200 trucks a week promised in the 20-point plan.”
Tracy Gilbert MP said:“Gaza is facing catastrophic conditions, and the international community has a responsibility to ensure that relief reaches those who need it most. Sadly, after briefings on the ground in Jordan this week it only served to reinforce my concerns about the lack of access and progress made since the peace plan had been agreed.
“The aid is there; however, it is not being made available. I have seen hundreds of boxes of baby formula and medication sitting in warehouses while people, just a few miles away, are in desperate need. No prosthetics have entered Gaza in the past year, despite thousands of people in need, with supplies ready to go.
“Among the supplies stored in the warehouses was aid funded directly by the UK Government, as well as assistance provided by UK charities through the generous donations of people across Edinburgh and the wider UK.”
Although a ceasefire agreement came into effect in October 2025, humanitarian organisations continue to warn that severe restrictions on aid and medical supplies mean many Palestinians in Gaza remain unable to access the support they urgently need.
Ms Gilbert added: “Eight months on from the Gaza Peace Plan there has been little improvement for people struggling to survive in Gaza. I am calling on the Israeli government to end the delays and allow the vital aid sitting on its borders to flow freely into Gaza.”
The Foreign Secretary’s Statement to the House of Commons on Tuesday 9th June can be found here:
TRACY GILBERT URGES POLICE TO LAUNCH CRIMINAL INVESTIGATION
On Tuesday, 21 April 2026, Tracy Gilbert MP, the Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith, accused websites advertising prostitution of facilitating industrial-scale sex-trafficking in Scotland and revealed she has written to Police Scotland urging them to launch a criminal investigation into the websites, which continue to openly operate in Scotland.
Websites advertising prostitution are commercial online platforms dedicated solely or partly to advertising individuals for prostitution. A report in February by the UK’s Independent Anti-Slavery Commissioner identified nearly 63,000 listings of women across 12 websites advertising prostitution in the UK at a single point in time. In just one month, the same websites received almost 41.7 million visits.
Frequently referred to as ‘pimping websites’, the UK Government has acknowledged through a written parliamentary question that “adult service websites are now the most significant enabler of trafficking for sexual exploitation”.
Leading a debate in the UK Parliament on sex trafficking in Scotland, Tracy Gilbert MP argued that it is not just third-party criminals using these websites who should be the focus of police attention. Instead, it should be the website operators themselves facing investigation for sex trafficking.
https://twitter.com/i/status/2046563957708558669
In her speech, the Edinburgh North and Leith MP revealed that she had written to the Chief Constable at Police Scotland, urging a criminal investigation into pimping websites.
She stated that websites advertising prostitution knowingly aid prostitution and facilitate the travel of individuals for prostitution – by listing and categorising prostitution adverts according to whether the advertised individual will do so-called ‘outcalls’ – which is where a person travels to the sex buyer for the purpose of prostitution.
These actions, Tracy Gilbert MP stated, mean that the websites themselves constitute human trafficking operations under the Human Trafficking and Exploitation (Scotland) Act 2015.
Following the debate, Tracy Gilbert MP said:“It is a national scandal that the individuals operating Adultwork and Vivastreet have not only been allowed to operate for years with total impunity, but that they have been publicly presented by Government and the National Crime Agency as partners in tackling sex trafficking.
“Pimping websites openly and explicitly facilitate the transportation or transfer of individuals for prostitution. The operators of these platforms publish prostitution adverts in a standardised format – which includes specifying whether the individual being advertised will do ‘out-calls’. …Facilitating the transportation of individuals for prostitution is built into the architecture of Adultwork and Vivastreet.
“I believe the seriousness and scale of these activities warrant an immediate criminal investigation.”
Tracy Gilbert MP has tabled an Early Day Motion in Parliament recognising the incredible contribution of Anne Munro, who is retiring after 47 years of dedicated service with the Pilmeny Development Project in Leith.
The Pilmeny Development Project has been supporting residents since 1979, working to improve the quality of life and strengthen community connections across north-east Edinburgh.
Commenting, Tracy Gilbert MP said:“Anne’s commitment to the people of Leith over nearly five decades has been extraordinary. Through her work with the Pilmeny Development Project, she has made a huge difference to countless lives across our community.
“This Early Day Motion is a small but important way to recognise Anne’s contribution and to thank her for the dedication, compassion and leadership she has shown throughout her career.
“On behalf of Edinburgh North and Leith, I wish Anne a long, happy and well-deserved retirement.”
An Edinburgh MP has warned that long NHS waiting times are having a serious impact on women across the Lothians, as concerns grow about a two-tier healthcare system emerging in Scotland.
Private healthcare admissions in Scotland recently hit a record high, raising fresh concerns that patients are increasingly being pushed to pay for treatment due to long NHS wait times.
Tracy Gilbert MP says these delays are particularly affecting women, who are often left waiting the longest for treatment, including for gynaecological conditions and diagnostic tests.
Edinburgh North and Leith MP Tracy Gilbert said:“Across Edinburgh and the Lothians, too many women are being left waiting far too long for the care they need.
“For many women, these delays aren’t just frustrating; they mean months or even years living with pain, uncertainty or conditions that are affecting their daily lives.
“When people feel forced to consider paying privately just to be seen sooner, it raises serious concerns about a two-tier system emerging in our NHS.
“Women across Scotland deserve timely, high-quality care through our NHS, regardless of their ability to pay.”
Tracy Gilbert, MP for Edinburgh North and Leith, has welcomed the Chancellor’s confirmation that the Scottish Government will receive an additional £921 million in funding through Barnett consequential in the Spring Statement.
Since the General Election in July 2024, the Scottish Government has received nearly £12 billion in extra funding.
Commenting, Tracy Gilbert MP said: “The Scottish Government has received £12 billion in additional funding since 2024. People in Edinburgh North and Leith will rightly ask what that money has delivered for them.
“With pressures on our NHS, housing and local services, this funding must be used to improve people’s day-to-day lives. It’s time to focus on getting the basics right and delivering for communities across Scotland.”
Scotland has seen a drastic 129% rise in shoplifting since 2021, with 48,564 recorded incidents in the year ending September 2025, according to figures from Police Scotland. Yet only 2,854 people were convicted in 2023/24, showing a growing gap between crime and accountability.
Tracy Gilbert MP, who worked on the Protection of Workers (Retail and Age-Restricted Goods and Services) Scotland Bill before her election to Parliament and has a long history in the trade union movement advocating for worker rights, said: “These figures are deeply concerning. Retail workers are on the frontline, facing increasing risk from shoplifting and associated crime, yet our laws and policing are not keeping pace. Workers and communities deserve better protection.
“This is not just about crime statistics, it’s about real people, and real communities. Adequate resources are required to ensure effective policing, and support for retail staff is urgently needed to tackle this growing problem.”
The Protection of Workers Bill, which Tracy contributed to before her parliamentary career, provides a vital framework for safeguarding retail staff, ensuring they can carry out their roles safely and without fear.
Tracy Gilbert added: “We must act now to ensure that Scotland’s workers and communities are protected.
“I will continue to advocate for better policing and laws that safeguard those on the frontline by working with trade unions and employers to ensure retail crimes are reported and prosecuted.”
