This week has been extremely busy with several meetings, events and Parliamentary business contributions.
Following a visit to Strathcarron Hospice earlier this year, I met with their CEO to discuss the upcoming Assisted Dying Bill. I also met with Virgin Money and FSCS in my capacity as Deputy Convenor of the Economy & Fair Work Committee, and attended a drop-in session with the Ethical Standards Commissioner, his staff and Leading Kind to find out more about their strategy to shaping Scotland’s future approach to diversity in Public Appointments.
The Victims, Witnesses, and Justice Reform (Scotland) Bill passed on Wednesday. I welcome the passing of this Bill - it aims to consider the experiences of victims and witnesses, ensuring they are treated with compassion, while also safeguarding the rights of the accused. It also recognises the impact of trauma on women, something I am extremely passionate about. I also spoke in a Members’ Business debate this week brought to the Chamber by Pam Gosal, again highlighting the need for the Scottish Government to act on the Supreme Court judgement and take into account women’s experiences.
I hosted a roundtable event by DHL, focusing on trade, the logistics of DHL and the impact on the Scottish economy. The Cross-Party Group on Women in Enterprise also met this week, discussing health and wellbeing in the context of entrepreneurship and self-employment.
Finally, I also attended the Holyrood Awards. Last year I was awarded Backbencher of the Year. As ever it was a fantastic event, and I congratulate all those who took home awards.
