Tag: Tracy Gilbert MP

Local MP calls for North Edinburgh tram to remain a  priority 

Tracy Gilbert MP has written to councillors ahead of the City of Edinburgh Council  Transport and Environment Committee considering the city’s future tram network,  warning Councillors that any moves to scrap tram proposals to Granton would entrench  inequality and poverty in North Edinburgh. 

Tomorrow (Thursday 10 September), Councillors on the Transport and Environment Committee  will consider the Strategic Business Case for the Trams to Granton, the BioQuarter and  beyond. The officer recommendations are to prioritise the southern section of the  proposed tram extension. 

Tracy Gilbert is concerned that communities in North Edinburgh, including some of the  poorest areas of the city, could once again be left waiting for investment in public  transport. 

In her letter to councillors on the Transport and Environment Committee, she sets out  the case for North Edinburgh to remain firmly within the city’s transport priorities and  that a failure to progress trams to Granton could entrench inequality and poverty. 

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “In part of my constituency the economic and social benefits of the trams are realised  every day. That lived experience and the Strategic Business Case being considered by  the Council’s Transport and Environment Committee this week makes the strong case  for investment in both the South and North to spread these benefits further. 

“Trams to Granton would directly serve three of the 5% most deprived communities in  Scotland and six of the 10% most deprived. We are talking about communities that  already face significant inequalities, where access to reliable, affordable public  transport can open opportunities for training education and employment. 

“That is why I have written to councillors ahead of this week’s committee meeting. I am  very clear that a failure to realise the ambition of the trams that has been shared by a  number of political parties over the last three decades will entrench inequality and  poverty in Granton, Pilton and Muirhouse. 

“I hope that Councillors will make the ambitious decision this week. Either way I will  continue making the case for the strategic investment needed in Granton, Muirhouse  and Pilton because our communities deserve better.”

Ms Gilbert’s letter reads:

Since July 2024, I have had the privilege of representing Edinburgh North and Leith. In one part of the  constituency the benefits of the trams to local people and businesses are being realised every day, in  another part of the constituency the potential benefits of the tram are well known but need political  support to become a reality.  

Success of Trams to Newhaven 

In and around Leith, Leith Walk and Newhaven local people and businesses have enjoyed the benefits  of the tram since the extension to Newhaven was opened in June 2023. The recent closure of the line  between the City Centre and Newhaven has perversely demonstrated the importance of the trams for  connectivity and trade. 

Over the tram closure I received a number of e-mails from residents on the increased difficulty they  had in travelling to work and into the city centre generally. Most residents experienced severe delays  on buses running through Newhaven, Ferry Road, the Shore, Easter Road and Leith Walk. In addition to  delays, many buses were full before going up to the City Centre or leaving the City Centre before going  along Leith Walk. 

Similarly, although the deployment of an additional 200 Voi Bikes was welcome in the wake of the fire  there was a tram to bike shift from constituents travelling to and from work which meant many Voi  Bike stops were empty across Leith during the day. 

In terms of the economic impact there was a visible decrease in the number of people visiting cafes,  pubs and restaurants around the Shore and Leith Walk. I am aware that at least one pub and one  restaurant have decided to close following the impact of poor summer sales for a second year in a row  following Leith Connections project delays and now the impact of the trams. 

Argonaut Books have shared data on their Instagram page which shows that in every August since  2022 their sales from July to August have increased. In August 2025, they had a 30% increase in sales  compared to July 2025. However, the impact of the tram closure meant in August 2026 they saw a 5%  decrease in sales compared to July 2026.  

Over the last two months I have repeatedly heard from businesses and residents on the positive  impact the trams have had on them. Many of those businesses and residents were sceptical in the  past. This lived experience of the trams over the last few years for communities in Leith, Leith Walk,  Newhaven and the Shore demonstrate the opportunity of following through on the vision that was  developed through the early 2000s for trams in Edinburgh for the other side of my constituency in  Edinburgh North and Leith 

The Case for Trams to Granton 

The Strategic Business Case for consideration by the Transport and Environment Committee makes the  case for progressing the whole of the route. Due to my constituency interest, I will focus on the route  to Granton. 

The proposed routes through Roseburn and Orchard Brae meet the Transport Planning Objectives  (TPOs) set in accordance with Strategic Transport Appraisal Guidance (STAG). 

TPO1 – To support inclusive and sustainable economic growth 

The route between the City Centre and Granton would increase connectivity of major centres of  employment such as Craigleith Retail Park, Leonardos and the Western General to the City Centre and  beyond. In reverse the increased connectivity would open up employment opportunities for residents  in Granton, Muirhouse and Pilton. 

A number of major employers in Edinburgh have informed me of the difficulty they have in recruiting  people in this area due to the lack of direct public transport connections especially to accommodate  shift work. 

TPO2 – To respond to climate change, delivering net zero 

The route between the City Centre and Granton would increase public transport connectivity between  Granton, Muirhouse and Pilton and the West of the city. At present only one bus route serves these  communities and the West to the Airport.  

The tram extension would help provide the option for residents to use public transport rather than  private cars for intra-city and airport journeys. The option would be extended to new residents in the  community through the Granton Waterfront Development. 

TPO3 – To promote equality and inclusion and help tackle the city’s housing emergency  The route between the City Centre and Granton would drastically increase connectivity between the  rest of the city and Edinburgh College (Granton Campus). The Campus delivers over 70 qualifications in  hospitality, construction, travel operations and the arts with many of the qualifications essential for  key growth areas for the city and not delivered at alternative campuses. 

The route to Granton would directly service three communities in the 5% most deprived areas of  Scotland according to the Scottish Index of Multiple Deprivation (SIMD) (Muirhouse – SO1008929 and  SO1008930 and Granton South and Wardieburn – SO1008919) and directly service 6 communities in  the 10% most deprived areas (adding Muirhouse SO1008933, Granton and Royston Mains – SO1008921 and Granton South and Wardieburn – SO1008918). 

Furthermore, the route would directly serve 12 communities which are in the 20% most deprived  communities in Scotland.

TPO4 – To improve health, wellbeing and safety and TPO5 – To protect and enhance our environment The route between the City Centre and Granton would improve connectivity for the whole city to the  Western General which provides a range of medical specialisms including geriatric, infectious diseases,  diabetes, stroke medicine and breast surgery for the whole of Edinburgh and is the regional cancer  centre for the whole of the South East of Scotland. 

The route could also see a major upgrade to the Roseburn Path which at present is poorly lit and  unsafe during the dark. 

In addition, there is considerable development planned across the area. The Granton Waterfront  Development which will deliver 3,500 new homes and the Art Works which will help open up Scotland’s National Collection. Ensuring that the trams are extended to Granton will help the public  transport network to cope with the increase in demand from these developments alone. A number of  these public and private investments have been made on the understanding over the last two decades  that the tram network would extend to Granton in one form or another. 

Current Position 

Despite widespread political support for the trams at various points over the last three decades, it is  clear that political will for the route to Granton is falling. I also suspect that there will be calls at the  Transport and Environment Committee to only proceed with the South route for trams to the  Bioquarter.  

Taking such a decision would entrench the inequality and poverty experienced by too many in  Granton, Muirhouse and Pilton. Such a decision would be based on political will, not the facts. The  Strategic Business Case sets out the performance of both the North route to Granton and the South  route to the Bioquarter against the TPOs and the STAG criteria. The appraisals were favourable for  both routes and is demonstrated by the analysis below. 

Table 1: Analysis of Multi-Criteria Assessment Framework Scoring Framework for each route (Section  4.5.6 of Strategic Business Case) 

Benefit/ Impact Roseburn Orchard Brae South East  Corridor
Major Benefit (+++) 2 0 2
Moderate Benefit (++) 9 6 10
Minor Benefit (+) 2 4 2
No benefit or impact (0) 1 6 1
Minor cost or negative impact (-) 1 2 3
Moderate cost or negative impact (–) 3 0 0
Major cost or negative impact (—) 0 0 0

Table 2: Analysis performance against STAG Criteria (Section 4.5.7 of Strategic Business Case)

Benefit/ Impact Roseburn Orchard Brae South East  Corridor
Major Benefit (+++) 3 2 3
Moderate Benefit (++) 8 7 7
Minor Benefit (+) 4 4 5
No benefit or impact (0) 5 3 3
Minor cost or negative impact (-) 1 6 5
Moderate cost or negative impact (–) 2 1 0
Major cost or negative impact (—) 0 0 0

Next Steps 

At the Transport and Environment Committee on Thursday 10th September, I encourage Elected  Members to proceed with the officer recommendations on Agenda Item 6.  

For the past three decades there has been wide spread support for the vision and ambition for trams  to run between the City Centre and Granton in one form or another. Councillors of many groups have  championed the route over the past three decades because of the transformative benefits it can have  for Granton, Pilton and Muirhouse. The legacy of those Councillors is a legacy of ambition, proceeding  

with the officer recommendations allows that ambition to take a further step in being realised. Tearing  up that ambition would entrench inequality and poverty, particularly in Granton, Muirhouse and Pilton  and would be a dereliction of responsibility by Councillors. 

I hope you will take the ambitious decision for Granton, Pilton and Muirhouse and the whole of  Edinburgh on Thursday. 

Yours sincerely, 

Tracy Gilbert MP 

Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith

Letter to Cllrs from Tracy Gilbert MPDownload

Local MP exposes lack of consistent surrogacy guidance across Scotland’s health boards

Tracy Gilbert, Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith, has today (Friday 4 September 2026) raised concerns over a lack of consistent guidance for midwives across Scotland caring for surrogate mothers and babies.

Through Freedom of Information requests the Edinburgh North and Leith MP has uncovered serious gaps in vital guidance for midwives and wider clinical teams when supporting births where a surrogacy arrangement is in place.

Tracy Gilbert’s FOI requests to all of Scotland’s NHS Boards found that only NHS Ayrshire & Arran and NHS Fife have active guidance in place for midwives and clinical teams on the care and treatment of surrogate mothers and babies.

Of the remaining NHS Boards:

  • Five have no policy at all
  • Four have a policy where the review is overdue
  • One has a policy currently in draft form
  • One referred to Department of Health and Social Care guidance

The Edinburgh North and Leith MP raised the issue during a debate on the Infants, Parents and Carers Bill in the House of Commons, warning that midwives and maternity teams should not be left to navigate these legal, clinical and safeguarding issues without clear and up-to-date guidance.

Tracy warned that the lack of consistent guidance could leave maternity staff without the information they need to ensure surrogate mothers and babies receive the best possible care.

Speaking after raising the issue in Parliament, Tracy Gilbert MP said: “Every mother and baby deserves the very best care with their needs put first in all decisions. However, I have exposed worrying gaps in the guidance available in some areas of the country for staff caring for families involved in surrogacy.

In many cases midwives will come across no or very few surrogacy cases in their careers; up-to-date guidance is therefore even more essential so that those midwives have access to the support and signposting that they need.

“The Scottish Government should now make sure that health boards across Scotland have this important guidance in place.”

An overview of the findings of the FOIs across health boards is as follows:

NHS Ayrshire and ArranPolicy in place Dec 2025, due for review in Dec 2028
NHS BordersPolicy in place March 2022, Review overdue (March 2025)
NHS Dumfries and GallowayRefer to Department for Health and Social Care guidance
NHS FifeFirst policy effective from May 2026, to be reviewed May 2029
NHs Forth Valley – First guidanceApril 2015, reviewed October 2021, review overdue (October 2024)
NHS GrampianNo guidance
NHS Greater Glasgow and ClydeNo guidance
NHS HighlandsGuidance in draft
NHS LothianGuidance in place Feb 2022, review overdue (Jan 2023)
NHS OrkneyNo guidance
NHS ShetlandNo policy
NHS TaysidePolicy put in place Jan 2019, review overdue (Aug 2025)
NHS Western IslesNo guidance

Gilbert and McNeill named as Marra campaign co-chairs

LOCAL MP BACKS MARRA IN SCOTTISH LABOUR LEADERSHIP BID

Michael Marra’s bid to lead Scottish Labour will be co-chaired by Tracy Gilbert MP and Pauline McNeill MSP.

Tracy Gilbert, the MP for Edinburgh North and Leith MP, was a trade union official before being elected to Westminster in 2024.

Pauline McNeill, first elected as an MSP in 1999, was a key voice in the campaign for a Scottish Parliament.

The Marra campaign said the appointments showed Michael is the best placed leader to unite and renew Scottish Labour.

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “I’m delighted to Co-Chair Michael’s  campaign alongside Pauline.

“The elections in May were heartbreaking for so many of us in the Labour family,but they were part of a long term trend of going backwards at every Holyrood election since 1999. Something needs to change.

“Michael is the leader rooted in Labour values who can unite and renew our party to offer hope across Scotland for better jobs,better public services and fairer nation with opportunity in every community of Scotland.”

Pauline McNeill MSP said: “I am backing Michael because he will be a strong leader who has no illusions about the difficult path ahead.

“He believes passionately that we can build a credible democratic centre left party in Scotland to represent working people.

“This must be an election about ideas and policy and  I think he  is best placed to lead  the free flow of ideas  using all the talents and skills in our party and our group of MSPs.”

https://twitter.com/michaeljmarra/status/2082061104457359644/video/1

A campaign spokesperson added: “Michael has been clear this leadership campaign will have to face the tough questions about why Labour has gone backwards at every Holyrood election.

“These problems are deep rooted and require serious answers.

“Only Michael can unite and renew Scottish Labour, drawing on all of our talents to rediscover our sense of moral purpose and offer the people of Scotland hope in Scottish Labour again.”

Marra campaign names local government group co-chairs

The Michael Marra campaign has also established a local government group to strengthen the voice of Labour councillors in the Scottish Labour leadership contest.

The group will be co-chaired by Fife Council leader David Ross and South Lanarkshire leader Maureen Devlin.

Maureen Devlin said: “I’m backing Michael Marra for Scottish Labour Leader.

“He’s the candidate rooted in Labour values who can  renew and unite our party.”

David Ross said: “Michael has a positive vision for Scotland and will provide honest, straight-talking leadership, focused on better jobs and stronger public services.

“That’s what we need to unite and renew Scottish Labour.”

Michael Marra, the North East Regional list MSP running for Scottish Labour leader, served as a councillor in Dundee before being elected to Holyrood.

Michael Marra said: “I’m delighted David Ross and Maureen Devlin have agreed to co-chair our local government group as part of my campaign to unite and renew Scottish Labour.

“Labour councillors have been the last line of defence in their communities from SNP cuts and centralisation.

“As Andy Burnham makes the case for redistributing power, wealth and opportunity out of Westminster and Whitehall, we need to have the same conversation in Scotland.

“Local councillors are central to that. They lead the way for Labour in power. Their knowledge, experience and ideas will be a key way under my leadership that we unite and renew Scottish Labour.”

The leadership contest has been caused by former leader Anas Sarwar’s decision to leave Holyrood to take a seat in the unelected House of Lords.

Burnham to cut tax on household electricity bills to give breathing space on cost of living

New Prime Minister takes immediate action to cut taxes on electricity bills to give millions of households breathing space this winter

  • New Prime Minister takes immediate action to cut taxes on electricity bills to give millions of households breathing space this winter
  • Tax cut this year funded from cancelled Digital ID programme will see VAT on electricity bills removed from October 1
  • In one of his first acts as Prime Minister Andy Burnham promises to “put more money in people’s pockets and bring back hope”

Millions of households across the UK will benefit from immediate action to help with their electricity bills this winter, the Prime Minister has announced as one of his first decisions in office. 

This follows his commitment to the nation on the steps of Downing Street yesterday to give people some breathing space and help with the cost of living. 

Government is tackling rising bills with a tax cut to remove VAT from domestic electricity bills from October 1 in time to impact the next Ofgem price cap. This immediate action applies and is funded for this financial year.

The cost of this immediate action for this financial year – taken now, before the next price cap – is being funded from the cancellation of the (£1.8bn) Digital ID programme.

Any further action, including on funding for longer-term measures, will be taken at the Budget alongside an OBR forecast.  All decisions at that point will continue to be funded and also consistent with the government’s fiscal rules.

Prime Minister Andy Burnham said: “Westminster has not been working for people for too long, with families struggling with the cost of living.  

“That needs to change. I said I wanted to give people breathing space, and that’s what I’m announcing on my second day as Prime Minister.

“We’re taking immediate action to cut taxes on energy bills, put more money in people’s pockets and bring back hope.”

Cutting VAT on electricity bills is expected to take around £45 off the yearly Ofgem price cap in October. This is on top of the £150 removed from bills at the last Budget.  

By targeting electricity bills, more people will be supported with rising bills and the government is helping to keep inflation down.  

All suppliers are expected to pass the VAT reduction on to all customers, including those on fixed tariffs, as they did with the £150 of costs taken off energy bills announced at the last Budget.

Small businesses who qualify for the domestic energy VAT relief and are not registered for VAT, as well as charities and residential care homes eligible for the reduced rate will also benefit.  

Chancellor of the Exchequer John Healey MP said: “For too long, too many people have struggled with the cost of living. 

“Today’s energy tax cut will give families some breathing room on bills, and provide some reassurance this winter. 

“This measure is funded this year from cancelling the Digital ID programme, and it will help bring down inflation while supporting households in every postcode.”

Welcoming the announcement, local MP Tracy Gilbert MP said:  “Families across Edinburgh North and Leith have been paying the price for the cost-of-living crisis for far too long. This VAT cut on energy bills is welcome news that will make a real difference to household finances.

“Labour is taking practical action to reduce costs for working people and deliver the change people voted for. This is a government that is on your side, helping families with the pressures they face every day.”

Responding to the announcement of the scrapping of the 5% VAT charge on electricity bills, Independent Age Chief Executive Joanna Elson, CBE, said: “Today’s VAT cut to electricity bills is an important and welcome acknowledgement that immediate action is needed to drive down energy costs.

“We hope the removal of the 5% VAT charge from October – reducing the typical annual bill by around £45 – signals the start of sustained action by the new Prime Minister to ease the relentless financial pressures on older people living on low incomes.

“We are already hearing from older people on low incomes who are rationing their energy use or cutting back on the essentials, and that’s before the winter months take hold when energy use increases.

“If Andy Burnham is to make good on his pledge to ease the cost-of-living pressures and help millions of older people living in poverty, we urge him to go further and lead his government to increase the Warm Home Discount from £150 to £400 without adding the cost to energy bills and develop a more comprehensive energy social tariff for people of all ages on low incomes.”

Cutting VAT on electricity bills is expected to take around £45 off the yearly Ofgem price cap in October. This is on top of the £150 removed from bills at the last Budget.  

By targeting electricity bills, more people will be supported with rising bills and the government is helping to keep inflation down.  

All suppliers are expected to pass the VAT reduction on to all customers, including those on fixed tariffs, as they did with the £150 of costs taken off energy bills announced at the last Budget.

Small businesses who qualify for the domestic energy VAT relief and are not registered for VAT, as well as charities and residential care homes eligible for the reduced rate will also benefit.  

As part of the ‘day one commitment to bring back hope to Britain’, the change supports the poorest households, who spend a higher percentage of their income on energy bills. 

Energy bills have risen since Russia’s invasion of Ukraine and have been exacerbated because of the war in Iran. But people need support now, which is why the government has acted to provide immediate breathing space for millions of households.

Tracy Gilbert MP urges Rockstar Games to recognise union

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.”

Local MP Tracy Gilbert praises community effort as Leith reaches UK Town of Culture 2028 shortlist

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.

First Minister: Scotland will stand against acts of division and hatred

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.“

STARMER TO GO

Sir Keir Starmer has announced he is stepping down as prime minister and leader of the Labour Party, here is his resignation speech in full:

https://twitter.com/i/broadcasts/1XGyggXMDAnxM

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.

Thank you very much.

https://twitter.com/i/broadcasts/1XGyggXMDAnxM

COMMENTS:

Tracy Gilbert MP

“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.”

Local MP Calls for Israeli government to let aid flow freely into Gaza

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:

https://hansard.parliament.uk/commons/2026-06-09/debates/17B7E328-FC55-496D-839C-1AD698698BE6/MiddleEast

Edinburgh MP says websites advertising prostitution “facilitating industrial scale sex-trafficking”

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.”

report_behind-the-profile_sexual-exploitation-and-trafficking-through-adult-services-websitesDownload