I'm truly honoured to have the opportunity to seek election in the wonderful Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber, with which I have a strong personal connection.

Full statement

I spent much of my childhood in social housing, and laboured on building sites to help pay my way through law school. Following this I served as an officer in the Royal Navy, including on ships & submarines at Faslane. I really enjoyed visiting the amazing communities in the wider area. I then got a scholarship to an MBA and now I work for a Scottish asset manager.



Helping to guide me have been my mother, who was a teaching assistant, my father who was a journalist, and my wonderful wife and family.



I love Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber. It has a strong sense of identity and unique heritage. It's one of the most beautiful places on earth and it has a really positive culture. It has so much potential.



However, the evidence also shows that far too many constituents suffer from deprivation. Parts of our communities have poor levels of income, poor levels of employment, poor levels of health, poor levels of education, poor levels of crime, poor access to public services and poor levels of housing. After years of the Tories and SNP, we are clearly not fulfilling our potential.



There's been lots to feel gloomy about recently. But looking forward I'm excited.



I wish to convey my strong sense of aspiration to voters. I know Labour has a good plan to help our constituents, economy, and public services. I know Labour is the party that can deliver change.



I want to be a voice for everyone in Argyll, Bute and South Lochaber. I want to fight for our communities, for our public services, for our economy, and for our country. I want more growth and less inequality. I want a stronger public sector supported by a stronger and growing economy.



I've been doing lots of campaigning across Scotland. I'm struck by the strong desire for change. I see this election as our chance to deliver it.



Life has taught me that we can overcome challenges if we work together and invest for the future. If we do this, I'm sure we can deliver the change that our constituents and country need.