Stevenson Raises Allergy Sufferers' Concerns

Banff and Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has raised the concerns of local allergy sufferers, in particular those with nut allergies, after receiving representations from constituents.

Commenting on the issue, Mr Stevenson said:

"Most people suffer from allergies to a greater or lesser extent; indeed the Royal College of Physicians reported that 18 million people in the UK have allergies. For most people, this causes only mild inconvenience and is easily managed. For others, allergies can be life threatening and allergies today are becoming severe and more complex.

"I have received representations from constituents, a number of whom are members of the Anaphylaxis Campaign, who help people with severe allergies live their lives.

"My constituents have highlighted to me the constant vigilance which is required to check every grocery item’s ingredient list, sufferers must carry an Epipen adrenaline injection at all times and children who suffer from nut allergies cannot accept sweets or drinks from their friends. This obviously has an effect on every day life.

“My constituents are concerned that not enough assistance is available from the Health Service and government. I have therefore written to the Health Minister as well as the local health authorities to press these concerns. I have also raised with local authorities to ask what provision they have to ensure that items such as nut free products are available in school meals.

“I hope that this added pressure will raise awareness of allergies and will lead to action to remedy the situation."

Stevenson Supports Motion Seeking Increased School Transport Safety

Banff and Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson is backing Parliamentary calls to ensure increased safety standards on school transport.

The MSP has recently given his backing to parents concerned that school buses in their area are operating – quite legally – with no safety belts.

Commenting, Mr Stevenson said:

“I think it is something of a loophole that minibuses and coaches used for school transport must have safety belts fitted yet buses which fall between these two definitions can quite legally be used on school runs.

"Every effort must be made to secure contracts only with companies whose buses are fitted out with seatbelts and meet required safety standards.

"The Scottish Executive step up their efforts to make school transport safety a top priority. Parents need a degree of security in knowing that their children will be safe travelling to and from school. In addition, the importance of wearing a seatbelt is a message that should be reinforced in schools."

Stevenson Welcomes Forecast Increase in Farm Incomes

Banff and Buchan MSP Stewart Stevenson has welcomed a survey carried out by Lloyds TSB which forecasts that farm incomes are to rise in the coming financial year.

Speaking following a meeting with NFU Scotland members in Turriff, Mr Stevenson said:

"Farming has suffered some tough challenges in recent years, in particular, low farm incomes. I am therefore encouraged with the results of the Lloyds TSB survey which shows the average Scottish farm income for 2003/04 is forecast to be £17,000, which is a much better figure than in recent years.

“However, I am aware from my discussions with farmers and NFU Scotland members that these forecasts must be treated with some caution as last year’s forecasts were on the optimistic side.

"Generally speaking, the rise in commodity prices last year enabled the average cereal farm to return to profitability, which is good news.

"The survey indicates that the recent industry difficulties may have passed allowing a more optimistic view to prevail. Higher farm incomes, coupled with the approaching reform of the Common Agricultural Policy will ensure a more viable future for many farm businesses which are so vital to Banff & Buchan’s economy.

"An improvement in farming fortunes will enable the industry to carry on delivering a quality product to the consumer and prosperity for the countryside.”