SCOTTISH Labour MP Elaine Stewart has become the latest politician to publicly endorse the campaign for regulation of the electrical industry.
She has backed protection of title by adding her name to SELECT’s Wall of Support as part of a long-running crusade led by Scotland’s largest construction trade association.
“As the Member of Parliament for Ayr, Carrick & Cumnock, I recognise the vital role that qualified electricians play in keeping people safe and supporting our economy,” she explained. “I support efforts to strengthen professional recognition within the industry and welcome the work being undertaken to promote high standards, skills development and public confidence in the electrical profession.”
The backing comes amid rising support for regulation, with a petition lodged in the Scottish Parliament this month calling for statutory safeguards to prevent unqualified individuals from describing themselves as electricians.
Jim Cooper, vice chair of SELECT’s Ayrshire Branch, has been in regular contact with the MP, who joined him and SELECT MD Sharon Miller at a meeting in Ayr in September to discuss the UK Government’s Youth Guarantee initiative and the need for protection of title.
Jim, a director of Maybole-based Electro Installations (Scotland) Ltd, added, “I am delighted that Ms Stewart has taken the time to endorse SELECT’s long-running campaign and help put the need for regulation in the spotlight. She comes across as a proactive politician who will take action and get results, and I look forward to working with her further on this and other important issues.”
Ms Stewart’s involvement was also welcomed by fellow electrician and SELECT member Chic Dobbie, who is the chair of the association’s Ayrshire Branch. Mr Dobbie, owner of Ayr-based C Dobbie Electrical Limited, said, “It’s encouraging that Ms Stewart has chosen to lend her support to our campaign and recognise the crucial contribution that qualified electricians make to communities, businesses and the wider economy.
“As society becomes increasingly dependent on electricity – from renewable technologies and electric vehicles to smart homes and modern infrastructure – it’s more important than ever that work is carried out by people with the appropriate skills, training and competence.”
