Kirsten lives with her family in East Renfrewshire, where her children attend local schools.

Full statement

Prior to entering politics, Kirsten was a Human Resources Director.Having served as the SNP MP for East Renfrewshire between 2015 and 2017, Kirsten was elected again in 2019. She was the first female Business Convener or chair of the SNP from 2018 to 2023, and Deputy Leader of the SNP Westminster group between 2020 and 2022.Kirsten has been the SNP Spokesperson on Armed Forces and Veterans, Northern Ireland, and since 2021, Women and Equalities and has consistently spoken up for women and minority groups, including campaigning for justice for WASPI women.She was at the forefront of moves to ban the sale of disposable vapes to young people, and prior to the election being called had secured a commitment on the banning of vape advertising in sports.In 2021, the World Uyghur Congress honoured her work for the cause of the Uyghur people, oppressed by China.Kirsten has consistently spoken up for constituents in East Renfrewshire, including on matters of faith, and has a consistent focus on interfaith matters and freedom of religion and belief.Prior to her election, Kirsten was a community volunteer, serving on the local community council, school parent council and other local groups. She has worked hard to engage with and support residents, groups and organisations in East Renfrewshire, holding regular surgeries, and taking the issues raised with her up in parliament.