Energy costs still rising despite Labour’s promises
Holyrood Notebook by Maree Todd
It was a disappointing result for my party earlier this month, as Labour’s Davy Russell narrowly defeated SNP candidate Katy Loudon in the Hamilton and Larkhall by-election – becoming Scotland’s newest MSP.
This by-election was triggered by the passing of long-serving SNP MSP and my friend, Christina McKelvie. Throughout the campaign, many voters spoke warmly about Christina’s dedication and the impact of her work in the community – making it all the more difficult that we weren’t able to deliver an SNP victory in her memory.
We heard real frustration on the doorstep as well – particularly about the cost-of-living crisis, with soaring energy bills a major concern. It’s an issue I hear about constantly across my own constituency, too, where fuel poverty is rife.
The lack of meaningful and urgent action from this Labour government on this very issue is staggering. Just last week, on BBC Debate Night, I was joined by Labour MSP Pam Duncan-Glancy where she championed her party’s flagship GB Energy policy, claiming it would create jobs in Scotland and bring bills down.
But the audience response – a loud groan – said it all. People aren’t convinced, and with good reason. We’re now hearing it could take 20 years to deliver on Starmer’s pre-election promise of 1000 jobs in the company. Meanwhile, energy costs have risen under Labour’s watch.
We also cannot forget that one of their first actions in government was to remove universal winter fuel payments for pensioners. While Labour’s recent but long overdue U-turn is welcome, it only highlights how little priority this UK government gives to tackling fuel poverty and supporting those struggling with energy costs.
There’s much for my own party to reflect on, too. We must take seriously the rise in support for Reform, who tailed behind the SNP in the by-election result. Their growth signals a deep frustration that many people are feeling with the political system. That is a clear message that all parties need to acknowledge and respond to.
But let’s be clear on this: Reform offers no real solutions. Their platform thrives on division and blame, and their policies threaten the inclusive, progressive values that matter to so many in Scotland.
While opinion polls show that support for independence is at historically high levels, I recognise that we still have much work to do to energise and persuade voters. We need to step up. We need to listen more, deliver more, and prove to people that there is a better, fairer alternative rooted in hope – not hate.
There’s been a government reshuffle and I’m honoured to take on a new role as minister for drug and alcohol policy and sport.
Before politics, I spent decades working as mental health pharmacist in the Highlands. I also grew up in a home where both parents suffered with alcoholism, now sober for many years. My professional and personal experiences have shaped my understanding of the pain and complexity of addiction and, whilst I know there are no quick fixes, I’m committed to listening, learning, and working tirelessly to drive change and save lives.
I take on this role following Christina McKelvie, who served with great compassion and dedication. I’m ready to hit the ground running and build on her work.
Finally, I’m delighted the Scottish Government is investing over £2 million from the Travel Infrastructure Fund to support the redesign of Wick High Street. This forms part of a broader effort to revitalise the town centre – improving access for walking, wheeling and cycling, while helping to attract visitors and support local businesses.
A big thanks to Cllr Raymond Bremner, whose efforts have undoubtedly played a key role in securing this funding.
• Maree Todd is the SNP MSP for Caithness, Sutherland and Ross.
