THE draft Scotland Bill to hand more powers from Westminster has now been published.

The proposals that have been outlined mean the UK Government will hold a veto over key powers coming to the Scottish Parliament, including the ability to abolish the ‘bedroom tax’.

The Scottish Government entered into the Smith Commission in good faith and on the presumption that Scotland would receive the powers it needs to transform people’s lives.

However, on publication of the Draft Clauses it would appear the proposals stop short of giving Scotland the necessary levers to tackle poverty and creating a fairer welfare system.

It will be interesting to learn of the reaction by the people of Scotland to the proposals and I look forward to hearing the thoughts of my constituents.

THE Scottish Government has taken the decision to halt the building of a new ‘super prison’, for women, in Inverclyde.

The proposal instead is to build smaller, more regional community-based custodial facilities across the country.

I have had a meeting with the Cabinet Secretary for Justice regarding this decision and will continue to press for investment to come to Inverclyde.

ONE of the great successes of the referendum was public engagement and voter participation in the weeks and months leading up to 18 September.

However, many people in Scotland face being removed from the voters roll due to new voter registration being introduced.

I would urge anyone who thinks they may be affected to contact the Electoral Registration Office on 0300 300 0150.