I WANT to start this column by acknowledging the recent passing of former First Minister Alex Salmond.

While I did not agree with him on some key political issues, there was never any doubting his many qualities as a politician and his great dedication to Scotland – politics will never be the same without him on the scene.

I was pleased to note the recent 100th day in office for the new UK Labour Government. After waiting 14 years for a Labour government, it has been exciting to see that many of the Government’s early initiatives will bring positive benefits for Scotland.

One of these is the Employment Rights Bill, the most significant upgrade in workers’ rights in a generation. The bill will introduce various employment reforms, from ending exploitative zero-hours contracts and fire and rehire practices to establishing day-one rights for paternity, parental and bereavement leave for millions of workers, and strengthening statutory sick pay.

The establishment of GB Energy is another policy area where Scotland is set to benefit. Based in Aberdeen, GB Energy will help to bring down bills, deliver jobs and put Scotland at the forefront of the global transition to green energy.

However, given my remit as Shadow Minister for Children and Young People, the establishment of a UK Child Poverty Taskforce is the most welcome early initiative. Scottish Labour has been conducting its own work on this crucial issue and it is an area where co-operation between the UK and Scottish Governments is essential if we are to tackle child poverty and enhance opportunities for all of Scotland’s young people.

While the work to deliver change began in July by getting rid of one incompetent government, next we have the chance to complete the journey and remove the tired SNP Government at Holyrood. That is why we will work tirelessly to ensure Scotland has a fresh start and new direction in 2026.