MSP Supports Regulation of Scottish Electrical Trade

Stewart Stevenson MSP with
Alan Wilson, MD of SELECT

MSP Stewart Stevenson has become the latest political brick in the Wall of Support for better regulation of the electrical trade across Scotland.

The representative for Banffshire and Buchan Coast has given his backing to the long-running campaign led by trade association SELECT for the recognition of electricians as a profession.

The Campaign calls for Protection of Title to help ensure that anyone calling themselves an electrician is actually qualified to carry out the work.

It has been estimated that as many as 16% of all domestic electricians operating in Scotland are either unqualified or under-qualified.

“I am delighted to add my support to SELECT’s campaign urging for the regulation of all electricians in Scotland,”

Mr Stevenson said.

“It is important for both safety and professionalism that we ensure anyone calling themselves an electrician holds appropriate qualifications.

“Introducing a title of recognition will create greater trust between consumers and industry and should be standard practice in all types of construction work, be they multi-million-pound contracts or small domestic jobs."

Mr Stevenson’s endorsement comes amid a growing swell of support for the campaign.

As part of its 2019-20 Programme for Government released last month, the Scottish Government has pledged to publish a consultation on the regulation of electricians.

“We would like to thank Mr Stevenson for adding his support to this vital cause,”

said Alan Wilson, Managing Director of SELECT.

“Improving the regulation of electricians will not only better help to protect people’s lives, but also has huge benefits for the wider Scottish economy.

“We are also delighted that the Scottish Government has committed to examining this issue, but continue to urge prompt action – this needs to happen sooner rather than later.”