I am standing as the Reform Scottish Parliamentary Candidate for Perthshire South and Kinross-shire.

Full statement

I am also the first Candidate on the Mid Scotland and Fife Regional List. Please vote Reform on both ballot papers.

I grew up in the far north of Scotland and, apart from a year in Kent, I have lived, worked and brought up my family in different parts of Scotland – firstly as a veterinary surgeon and latterly working for environmental charities on public affairs and media. These varied experiences have given me a broad view of the needs of Scottish people and has led me to want to work for improved lives and communities locally and across Scotland.

I have lived in beautiful rural Perthshire for twenty-three years and I’m well aware of the challenges in rural areas. In recent years, we’ve seen the loss of post offices and police stations, poor public transport, and a drastic need for housing and jobs to help young people remain in the area. Perth city centre needs regeneration and Reform’s small business policies would encourage new entrepreneurs. Our policy for lowering taxes will help people in work and pensioners.

Standing up for local and national concerns

I have an active and successful campaigning record, including leading a campaign to protect our wild peatlands, leading to Wild Land Areas being recognised as a national asset by the Scottish Government in Scottish Planning Policy. I have campaigned and given evidence in Public Local Inquiries against the deluge of industrial energy projects - such as the proposed 200m turbines in Perthshire and Kinross-shire. I have been an unpaid carer and know that both social care and the NHS need reform.

I am an experienced public speaker and I know how the Scottish Parliament works, not just in the debating chamber but in Committees and other events, so I will be able to engage and effect change immediately. And how needed that change is!

Reform’s policies on key issues are needed to revive our economy and restore healthy communities. Please vote Reform on both ballot papers, and I hope that you will come and visit me in the parliament after 8th May!