Busy month in the community

On Monday (May 19), a new agreement was announced with the EU, which will deliver on growing the economy, backing British jobs and putting more in people's pockets.

- Chris Kane

This is the third major deal the Labour Government has struck in as many weeks, following the US and India.

The new agreement includes slashing red tape, making it easier for food and drink to be imported and exported, it will see the UK and EU link their carbon markets to avoid taxes on carbon-intensive goods like steel and cement travelling between the UK and EU, and new electricity measures will see energy bills go down according to Octopus energy.

This is a positive development in our relationship with our largest trading partner, and one which I welcome.

The 8th May marked 80 years since Victory in Europe Day. It was a moment to reflect on the courage and sacrifice of those who served in the Second World War and to honour all current and former members of our armed forces, including the 3,371 veterans living in Stirling and Strathallan today.

I welcome the UK Government's launch of VALOUR, a new £50 million support network that will establish recognised veteran hubs and deploy Regional Field Officers to help connect veterans with the services they need and deserve.