Born in 1946 and brought up in Cupar, Fife, I was educated at the local school - 
Local MSP Stewart Stevenson welcomed Education Secretary Fiona Hyslop’s recent announced that 2000 extra apprenticeship places in Scotland's retail industry will be created. Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:
"The Scottish Government is committed to doing everything that it can to help people in this current economic climate and ScotAction is the Scottish Government's skills support package for providing real financial support to businesses and individuals through the recession.
"Apprentices are vital for Scotland's recovery. That is why the Scottish Government announced a huge increase in funding of £16 million for 7,800 new apprenticeships this year.
"Our whole economy has faced massive challenges over recent months. The retail sector has been far from immune – but its future success will be absolutely vital to our economic recovery. That is why we want to ensure that those entering the sector develop the necessary skills to succeed.
"The action that the Government has taken to support Modern Apprenticeships demonstrates that where they have the powers, they can deliver for the people of Scotland – and deliver quickly."
Karen Adam is now the MSP for Banffshire and Buchan Coast
