Stirling is the jewel in Scotland’s crown, and Stirling constituency is the heart of Scotland.

Full statement

I want to make it the heart of Scotland’s politics too.

Politics is local, and the people of Stirling deserve a strong voice to make sure they have the best representation in Westminster and beyond. Yes, we need to promote Scotland on the global stage, but we also have to make sure that your MP is there for you when you need them.

Stirling has become a hotbed of Brexit resistance, with Stirling For Europe out and about most weeks working with all parties (and none). There was a massive vote to remain – 67.7% – and I can speak to that audience. Equally, we should be mindful of the independence vote in 2014, where Stirling voted 59.8% No. There’s a respectful dialogue to be had there to reassure and win people over, to make sure that they see independence not as a threat but as an opportunity to build the sort of city, region and nation we want to be. That includes making sure that our European friends, the same people who've done us the honour of choosing Stirling as a place to live, work, raise their families and enrich our communities, feel supported and welcome.