Sir Menzies Campbell MP and Alison Johnstone MSP are two former athletes who are also prominent politicians.

LEAP Sports Scotland is delighted to announce that they have shown their support for PRIDE HOUSE Glasgow 2014 by becoming patrons. 

Sir Menzies Campbell, MP for North East Fife and former British 100 metre record holder said:

“Sport breaks down barriers, creates and encourages diversity.  These Commonwealth Games are for all of us.  They will bring together the citizens of Glasgow and our guests.  At Pride House there will be a welcome for all. “ 

Alison Johnstone, Green MSP for Lothian and former athlete, who represented Scotland in the 800 and 1500 metres, said:

“Pride House will be a great asset for the Games, and will provide essential support in the campaign for equality and diversity in sport. We must strive towards a culture that not only allows LGBT athletes to compete without feeling they have to hide their sexuality, but encourages many of them to become positive role models to ensure younger people are inspired to pursue their sporting potential.”

North East Fife MP Sir Menzies Campbell has written to the Defence Secretary Philip Hammond to request an update on the Army’s move to the military base at Leuchars. The text of his letter is as follows:

“Dear Philip,

As you may be aware 6 Squadron based at RAF Leuchars has now redeployed to RAF Lossiemouth. 1 Squadron will do the same in the Autumn.

As yet there is no clear public indication of the date when all the Army units proposed for Leuchars will finally take up residence.

You will know from previous correspondence not only from myself but from members of the public and particularly from the local community that end of air activity at Leuchars remains controversial and a source of widespread regret especially in North East Fife. There is nothing but respect for the Army which I share unreservedly but a strong belief that the decision to move the Typhoons north to Lossiemouth is misplaced strategically, which I also share.

The question which now remains open is how soon the Army will take up residence. There are general expressions of intent but no detail. It must be the case that there are target dates for the deployment of Army units and full occupation of the base.

It will be a source of comfort to me and my constituents if these dates can be publicly shared. I hope you will be able to make this information available.

Yours sincerely,

Menzies Campbell”

North East Fife Liberal Democrat MP Sir Menzies Campbell has welcomed the news that 380 entrepreneurs in Fife, including 60 entrepreneurs in Sir Menzies’ constituency of North East Fife, have received support from a UK Government scheme that is helping create new Scottish businesses.

The New Enterprise Allowance (NEA) scheme offers financial and mentoring support to people on jobseekers allowance, lone parents and people on sickness benefits who want to start their own businesses.

New statistics show that 3,300 businesses have been created in Scotland with support from the scheme.

Commenting, Sir Menzies said:

“It’s not easy taking an idea and turning it into a viable business. That’s why it’s so important that people who want to start their own business get the support they need. 

“The New Employment Allowance has helped thousands of people across Scotland into work, including 60 in North East Fife. Many of these people will be the employers of tomorrow,  creating more jobs in the local and wider communities. 

“By giving entrepreneurs a helping hand when they need it most we will secure a stronger economy for the future.”

The NEA is available to people over 18 who are claiming Jobseeker’s Allowance, lone parents on Income Support, or people on Employment and Support Allowance in the work-related activity group.

People on the scheme get expert help and advice from a business mentor who will help them to develop their business idea and write a business plan. If the business plan is approved, they are eligible for financial support payable through a weekly allowance over 26 weeks up to a total of £1,274. Participants can also access a loan through the Department for Business, Innovation & Skills start-up loan scheme.