Scenes of destruction across France as young people riot over school cutbacks and the soaring cost of living are alarming to watch. Here in Scotland it might be true that we don’t go in for political rioting in the same way as the French. But politicians need to be alive to the fact that the same forces enraging young people in France are also being keenly felt over here.
Cost of living remains top concern
The cost of living remains the top concern among Record readers and many will feel not enough has been done by governments in Edinburgh and London to help. It is not only the unemployed and the elderly feeling the pinch, as many middle earners are also finding it difficult to make ends meet.
Petrol prices and energy bills are sky-rocketing – and for many families these are not items that can be cut back. Food price inflation is also soaring, adding hundreds of pounds to the family shop over the course of a year.
Plea for budget action
Chancellor John Healey needs to listen to those voices asking for people to be given a break in the next budget. We’re not talking here about massive tax cuts for the rich. But there must be a freeze on fuel duty so people aren’t hit with additional costs. Our leaders also need to keep in mind the need to create good quality jobs and reverse sluggish economic growth.
That must be kept in mind as we await the decision over the approval of the Jackdaw and Rosebank oil fields – with thousands of jobs relying on the continuing success of Scotland’s oil industry.
Young people's future at stake
Our young people need to feel like they have a future here in Scotland – and that means decent jobs, affordable housing and well resourced schools and colleges. Scots might not be taking to the streets or burning down town halls. But that doesn’t mean we are not angry - and our political elites need to recognise that.
In a separate item, Record View also celebrated Wee Gregor Corse, a four-year-old from Orkney who has won a Pride of Britain award. Born with a condition affecting his balance and motor skills, Gregor surprised his family when he learned to walk short distances independently in the last year. He then took on a fundraising challenge – to walk “30 loops o’ the hoose” every day for 30 days – and completed the daily laps around his Kirkwall home, raising £73,000 in the process. Mum Iona says he is an inspiration – and Record View agreed.
