IN two weeks we will know the outcome of the UK election and what Inverclyde decides.

With the polls as they are, the result locally and across the UK is wide open which makes it fascinating.

This week saw the launch of the SNP manifesto.

We are proposing a modest spending rise of 0.5 per cent per year to enable extra investment into the economy and public services, increasing the minimum wage to £8.70 by 2020, restoring the 50p top income tax rate for those earning over £150,000 and increasing the employment allowance from £2,000 per business to £6,000 to help smaller firms take on and retain staff.

The winter fuel allowance will be protected and there will be a triple lock on pensions.

We will oppose the £3 billion cut in disability support and we will oppose the £100 billion spending on replacement of Trident.

All in all, the manifesto is bursting with positive policies.

Earlier this year, I wrote to the Scottish Government to ask them to consider bringing the Scottish Cabinet to Inverclyde.

I believe Inverclyde has suitable locations to host a cabinet meeting and it would showcase Inverclyde in a positive light.

Also, such a visit would be a great opportunity for the ministerial team to meet businesses, individuals and local groups and to learn more about Inverclyde.

I found out recently that the Scottish Government are considering my suggestion and I’m sure they will receive a hospitable welcome if it were to happen.