Tag: Tracy Gilbert MP

Relief for community projects as continued funding confirmed

ONE YEAR EXTENSION TO INVESTING IN COMMUNITIES FUND

The Scottih Government has confirmed that Investing in Communities funding will be continued for a further year.

The announcement comes as a huge relief to community projects facing massive cuts to their funding, with services being slashed and some organisations facing closure.

Scottish Greens raised concerns over the uncertainty faced by many of Edinburgh’s third sector projects at a council meeting last month.

A looming catastrophe has been averted with the announcement of one year’s transition funding while a replacement to the Investing in Communities Fund is developed.

Edinburgh Northern and Leith MP Tracy Gilbert took up the case of local community organisations and yesterday received welcome confirmation that fears have been allayed – at least for now.

She said: “Following budget cuts, I raised concerns with the Scottish Government about the future of the Investing in Communities Fund. Ministers have now confirmed a one-year transition extension for existing projects ending in March.

“This will help in the short term, but it falls short of the long-term certainty our community organisations need. I’ll keep pushing for sustained funding and stability for the services people rely on.”

Local MSP Ben Macpherson has also been on the case. He said: “This morning I visited Dr Bell’s Family Centre to discuss a situation that was of real concern.

“Using my decade of experience – including how to get things done for local organisations – I’d written to The Scottish Government about it on Monday and followed this up today, working actively as their/your local constituency MSP … I was therefore very pleased that shortly after the matter had been resolved.

“I know it’s been a worrying time for the centre and am relieved that immediate worries have been lifted. My team and I will keep working with the centre to explore more funding streams, and support the impactful work they do in our communities.”

Screenshot

Edinburgh projects who received Investing in Communities funding (2023- 26) are:

  • About Youth, Calder Youth Action Project (part of Wester Hailes Together), City of Edinburgh, £105,822
  • Community Renewal Trust, Our Neighbourhood: A new hyperlocal Community Wealth Building partnership, City of Edinburgh, £300,732
  • Dr. Bell’s Family Centre, Start Well, Live Well: Wellbeing Support for Families in Leith, City of Edinburgh, £348,067
  • Edinburgh Food Social Cic, Changing Craigmillar Food Culture, City of Edinburgh, £325,847
  • Fresh Start, Fresh Connections, City of Edinburgh, £280,201
  • North Edinburgh Arts, North Edinburgh Arts Link Up, City of Edinburgh, £331,400
  • Space @ The Broomhouse Hub, Together We Can, City of Edinburgh, £350,000
  • The Venchie Children And Young People’s Project, Family Support Service, City of Edinburgh, £208,732
  • Transition Edinburgh South (Scotland) Ltd, Investing in Gracemount, City of Edinburgh, £302,196
  • Whale, The Arts Agency, Creativity, Place and Enterprise in Wester Hailes (part of Wester Hailes Together), City of Edinburgh, £332,494.

“Grand Theft Tax?” Edinburgh MP questions Rockstar Games’ £70m UK tax breaks amid worker allegations

Tracy Gilbert, MP for Edinburgh North and Leith, raised concerns in Parliament on Thursday about the way Rockstar Games has benefited from substantial UK tax relief while facing allegations about its treatment of staff.

The company behind the Grand Theft Auto franchise has reportedly claimed more than £70 million through the UK Government’s Video Games Tax Relief scheme, a policy designed to support the games industry by significantly reducing companies’ tax bills.

Gilbert’s intervention follows allegations from constituents that workers at Rockstar were dismissed after exercising their legal right to organise in the workplace.

The claims raise serious questions about whether companies receiving large-scale tax breaks from the UK Government are meeting basic expectations around fair treatment and workplace rights.

Several constituents have contacted Gilbert, believing they were unfairly dismissed by Rockstar after engaging in lawful workplace organising activity. She has since met with the company alongside fellow Edinburgh MPs Chris Murray and Scott Arthur, and has committed to continuing her support for the affected workers.

Speaking after raising the issue, Tracy Gilbert MP said: “When a company benefits from tens of millions of pounds in government-backed tax relief, what many would describe as Grand Theft Tax, it is reasonable to expect that it upholds basic standards of fairness and respects workers’ rights.

“I have been contacted by constituents who believe they were dismissed for exercising their legal right to organise at work. These are serious allegations, and it is right that they are properly scrutinised, particularly when a company is receiving such substantial tax advantages.”

Ms Gilbert asked Rt Hon Sir Alan Campbell MP, Lord President of the Council and Leader of the House of Commons, whether he shared her concerns about the reported dismissals and that the issue should be raised with the Chancellor, given the scale of tax relief Rockstar Games has received through the Video Games Tax Relief scheme.

She was reassured that ministers were looking into the matter and that he would be happy to arrange a meeting with ministers regarding the tax relief.

Tracy Gilbert welcomes £150m investment in Scottish Floating Wind 

“Major Vote of Confidence in UK Clean Energy Leadership”

Tracy Gilbert, MP for Edinburgh North and Leith and Chair of the Offshore Wind All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG), has welcomed the announcement of a £150 million public investment package into the Pentland Floating Offshore Wind Farm, a project set to support more than 1,000 jobs and accelerate the UK’s position as a global leader in floating wind.

The investment, jointly backed by GB Energy, the National Wealth Fund, and the Scottish National Investment Bank, marks one of the most significant early-stage commitments to floating offshore wind in the UK to date.

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “This £150 million investment is a major vote of confidence in Scotland’s floating offshore wind ambitions and in the UK’s ability to lead the world in this technology.

“The Pentland project demonstrates what can be achieved when GB Energy and our public finance institutions collaborate to support innovation, job creation, and long-term economic growth.

“As Chair of the Offshore Wind APPG, I’ll continue pushing for the infrastructure investment needed to unlock more projects like this, because the benefits for Scotland’s communities, workers, and supply chain are clear.”

First Private Member’s Bill of new parliament made law by capital MP

Tracy Gilbert MP’s Absent Voting (Scotland and Wales) Bill, the first Private Member’s Bill of the new Parliament, has now received Royal Assent, officially becoming law.

The new legislation will make it easier for voters in Scotland and Wales to apply for a postal or proxy vote in devolved elections, allowing them to do so online.

Currently, voters must apply for postal or proxy votes using physical forms, a process that can be particularly challenging for people with disabilities or those living overseas. The new law will remove those barriers and modernise the voting system ahead of next year’s Scottish and Welsh elections.

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “I’m incredibly proud that my Bill has now become law, and as the first Private Member’s Bill of this Parliament to do so.

“It now gives both the Scottish and Welsh Governments the time they need to implement these changes ahead of next year’s Holyrood and Senedd elections, ensuring voters can benefit from this new, more accessible system.”

Edinburgh MP leads the way with first successful Private Member’s Bill

The first Private Members Bill of this Parliament has passed all stages in the Houses of Commons and Lords. The bill, proposed by Labour MP for Edinburgh North and Leith Tracy Gilbert, will make it easier for voters in Scotland and Wales to apply for a postal or proxy vote in devolved elections next year.

The Private Member’s Bill, Absent Voting (Scotland and Wales) Bill, passed its Third Reading in the House of Lords today (Friday 24 October). As no changes were made to the Bill in the House of Lords it will now go forward for Royal Assent.

Tracy Gilbert MP was drawn 12th in the Private Members Bill ballot last September. Twenty MPs are drawn in the ballot, giving them a right to introduce a bill.

Ms. Gilbert’s bill will allow voters to apply for a postal or proxy vote online, making it easier for voters to participate in elections and ending the anomaly in Scotland and Wales where voters can apply online for UK Parliament elections but not devolved elections.

Currently, voters must apply for a proxy vote by sending a physical letter. This can make the process difficult for people with disabilities or for those living outside the country. This necessary legislative change means voters will now be able to apply online for a postal or proxy vote for Scottish Parliament and Senedd Cymru elections next year.

During the passage of the bill through Parliament, Gilbert won cross-party praise for her bill being called a ‘modern day chartist woman’ by Tonia Antoniazzi MP.

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “I’m thrilled that my Private Member’s Bill is the first of this Parliament to pass both Houses of Parliament. I am grateful for the cross-party support the Bill has received.

“My bill will simplify the process for applying for a postal or proxy vote in next year’s Scottish and Welsh Parliament elections by enabling voters to apply online, extending access to democracy.”

A copy of the Bill can be found here – https://bills.parliament.uk/bills/3785

Progress of Private Member Bills (Ballot Bill) (listed in order of ballot)

MemberBillCurrent/Next Stage
Kim Leadbeater, Labour (Spen Valley)Terminally Ill Adults (End of Life) Bill Lords – Committee Stage
Max Wilkinson, Liberal Democrats (Cheltenham)New Homes (Solar Generation) Bill Commons – Second Reading
Dr Roz Savage, Liberal Democrats (South Cotswolds)Climate and Nature BillCommons – Second Reading
Clive Lewis, Labour (Norwich South)Water Bill Commons – Second Reading
Josh MacAlister, Labour (Whitehaven and Workington)Protection of Children (Digital Safety and Data Protection) Bill Withdrawn
Dr Scott Arthur, Labour (Edinburgh South West)Rare Cancers Bill Lords – Second Reading
Jim Allister, Traditional Unionist Voice (North Antrim)European Union (Withdrawal Arrangements) Bill Commons – Second Reading
Peter Lamb, Labour (Crawley)Free School Meals (Automatic Registration of Eligible Children) Bill Commons – Second Reading
Alex McIntyre, Labour (Gloucester)Controlled Drugs (Procedure for Specification) Bill Commons – Report Stage
Andrew Ranger, Labour (Wrexham)Licensing Hours Extensions Bill Lords – Second Reading
Jake Richards, Labour (Rother Valley)Looked After Children (Distance Placements) Bill Commons – Second Reading
Tracy Gilbert, Labour (Edinburgh North and Leith)Absent Voting (Elections in Scotland and Wales) Bill Royal Assent
Linsey Farnsworth, Labour (Amber Valley)Unauthorised Entry to Football Matches Bill Lords – Second Reading
John Grady, Labour (Glasgow East)Space Industry (Indemnities) Bill Lords – Committee Stage
Rachael Maskell, Labour (Co-op), (York Central)Short-term Let Accommodation Bill Commons – Second Reading
Ruth Jones, Labour (Newport West and Islwyn)Fur (Import and Sale) Bill Commons – Second Reading
Dr Danny Chambers, Liberal Democrats (Winchester)Animal Welfare (Import of Dogs, Cats and Ferrets) Bill Lords – Committee Stage
Sarah Owen, Labour (Luton North)Fireworks Bill Commons – Second Reading
Wendy Chamberlain, Liberal Democrats (North East Fife)Gambling Act 2005 (Monetary Limits for Lotteries) Bill Commons – Second Reading
Dr Rupa Huq, Labour (Ealing Central and Acton)Sale of Tickets (Sporting and Cultural Events) Bill Commons – Second Reading

Tracy Gilbert MP welcomes investment in community solar projects in Edinburgh North and Leith

Tracy Gilbert MP has welcomed significant UK-wide investment in community renewable energy projects, which will deliver tangible benefits for local communities in Scotland.

The Great British Energy initiative is backing a total of £4 million into the UK’s community energy sector, supporting 48 community energy projects across Scotland, including two major developments in Edinburgh North and Leith.

  • Granton Project CIC – Harnessing solar power for community growth, receiving £70,043.
  • Edinburgh Community Solar Co-op (Phase 3) – Developing local solar capacity, awarded £484,500.

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “These investments demonstrate the UK Government’s commitment to renewable energy and to supporting communities across the country. I am pleased that two of these are in my constituency in Edinburgh North and Leith, which is becoming a true renewables hub.

“The projects will not only generate clean energy but also empower local communities with long-term benefits. Initiatives like these are helping to build a greener, more sustainable future for everyone.”

The Great British Energy investment is part of a wider effort to drive community energy generation growth across Scotland and the UK, ensuring that local areas can take an active role in the renewable energy transition.

Edinburgh Community Solar Co-opEdinburgh Solar Co-op phase 3£484,500
Granton Project CICHarnessing solar power for community growth£70,043

Tracy Gilbert MP meets with youth workers and police to discuss rise in anti-social behaviour

Tracy Gilbert, Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith, has met with Citadel Youth Club and local police officers to discuss growing concerns around youth anti-social behaviour and so-called “baby gangs” in Edinburgh.

The meeting, held yesterday at Citadel Youth Club, focused on the challenges faced by communities and the importance of early intervention and support for young people.

Ms. Gilbert stressed the need for greater investment in youth services and preventative measures, highlighting that providing young people with safe spaces and positive opportunities is essential to tackling anti-social behaviour.

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “I was grateful to meet with local police and the Citadel Youth to listen to their concerns about the rise in youth anti-social behaviour. It’s clear that prevention is key.

“We need more investment in youth services to give young people the opportunities and support they deserve, while also keeping our communities safe.

“I will continue to work closely with community partners, the police, and youth organisations to push for the resources our young people and locals urgently need.”

Tracy Gilbert MP welcomes Tram Consultation and calls for ‘strong community voice’

Tracy Gilbert, Member of Parliament for Edinburgh North and Leith, has welcomed the upcoming public consultation on Edinburgh’s proposed tram expansion, describing it as a “vital opportunity for communities to shape the future of their city.” 

The 12-week consultation, beginning Monday 25 August 2025, will gather views on a new north-south tram line stretching from Granton to the BioQuarter and Royal Infirmary, alongside wider proposals for a city-wide tram network. 

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “This is a much-needed investment in our city’s infrastructure. Expanding the tram network will help deliver a more connected, sustainable Edinburgh. But it’s vital that local people have their say and that their voices shape how this project moves forward.” 

The plans include potential routes through existing walking and cycling corridors such as the Roseburn Path, which has prompted strong feelings from residents and active travel groups.

Tracy Gilbert emphasised the importance of listening carefully to community concerns. She added: “While I support the ambition behind this project, I know there are legitimate concerns, especially around preserving green space and existing active travel routes.

“Those must be properly heard and respected. This can’t be a top-down decision.” 

The consultation will inform the next stage of the project’s development, including the preparation of a Strategic Business Case, expected to go before the Transport & Environment Committee in 2026. 

Unacceptable Lothian gynaecology waits show women’s health being ignored, says local MP

 Tracy Gilbert MP has condemned the SNP Government over damning figures showing years long waits for vital gynaecological treatment, with NHS Lothian among the health boards  failing women across Scotland. 

New data obtained by Scottish Labour reveals that, despite repeated promises to prioritise  women’s health, the average wait for inpatient gynaecology treatment in NHS Lothian has  barely improved, in fact, it has fallen by just 12% since 2019/20, even as demand has  surged. 

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “This data shows a staggering failure of leadership from the SNP. Women in Lothian are  being forced to wait far too long for care, often in pain, often in silence, while the  Government spins promises that never materialise. A 12% decrease over five years is not  progress: it’s complacency. Women deserve better.  

“They deserve a health system that works for them, not against them. Scottish Labour will  tackle waiting times head-on, because women’s health can’t wait.”

Tracy Gilbert MP welcomes Labour’s pledge to fund fair pay for Hospice Workers in  Edinburgh North & Leith 

Tracy Gilbert MP has today welcomed Scottish Labour’s commitment to increase funding for  hospices and deliver pay parity for hospice-based doctors, nurses, and care staff across  Scotland, including those serving communities in Edinburgh North and Leith. 

The announcement, made today by Scottish Labour, will see hospice staff receive wages in  line with their NHS counterparts through full funding of the Agenda for Change pay scale,  easing the burden on overstretched hospices and helping to secure the future of palliative  care services. 

Local facilities such as St Columba’s Hospice in Trinity play a vital role in delivering  compassionate, end-of-life care to families across the constituency.

However, rising costs  and an historic lack of investment under the SNP government have left the sector struggling  to recruit and retain staff. 

Tracy Gilbert MP said: “Hospice doctors, nurses, and support staff are the beating heart of  palliative care.

“They deserve to be paid fairly for the essential work they do, and under a  Scottish Labour government, they finally will be.” 

Scottish Labour’s plan is designed not only to improve pay but to protect the services that  thousands of families rely on every year.