LABOUR was elected to government with a very explicit mission to kickstart economic growth and make the UK the fastest-growing major economy by the end of our first term in government.

The success of small and medium-sized enterprises will be at the heart of this mission. SMEs already account for nearly 17 million jobs across the UK and around half of all private sector turnover.

There are many fine examples of the kind of SMEs we need to support right here in East Lothian. One excellent local business is Sunamp, a world-leading heat battery storage company which has its head office in Macmerry and a manufacturing facility in Musselburgh.

Sunamp develops, makes and sells thermal batteries that store energy, using its patented phase change materials, and discharge it as heat that can be used for hot water, heating and cooling. I welcomed the opportunity to visit this innovative and ambitious business with Martin Whitfield MSP to learn more about its latest development and exciting expansion plans.

One increasing problem for small businesses is the steady withdrawal of local banking services. The Bank of Scotland North Berwick branch is the latest set to close. I wrote to the bank and urged it to reconsider the decision but, unfortunately, it is determined to go ahead with the closure next year.

I believe that community banking hubs, providing a range of traditional banking services via the Post Office network, offer an alternative way of retaining banking facilities in communities. The new Government is committed to establishing at least 350 of these hubs across the UK over the course of this Parliament.

Finally, I promised to highlight a forthcoming fundraising ceilidh event organised by Can Do, formerly the East Lothian Special Needs Playscheme, to celebrate its 40th anniversary. The fundraiser is taking place on Saturday, October 5, at the Harbour Chapel, Dunbar. Tickets are £35 and further information can be found at can-do.scot