Ishan Crawford

A new study from Heriot Watt University reveals that nearly two thirds of vessels in Scotland's Marine Protected Areas go undetected due to lack of AIS signals. This hidden traffic raises serious risks for whales, dolphins and other marine life in these vital waters. Study Uncovers Vast Monitoring Gaps Researchers from Heriot Watt University conducted over 1800 hours of surveys in six key Marine Protected Areas across Scotland. Their work, done with groups focused on whale and dolphin protection, shows that Automatic Identification System data misses most boat movements. Only about a third of traffic gets tracked, leading to underestimates…

Scotland has raised income tax rates multiple times since 2018 without sparking major backlash, creating the UK's most progressive system where higher earners contribute more to fund public services. Recent polls show Scots are more open to further tax increases than people elsewhere in Great Britain, viewing them as a way to improve finances and support vulnerable groups amid economic pressures. Recent Tax Changes in Scotland The Scottish government introduced its latest income tax adjustments in the 2025-26 budget, building on years of divergence from UK-wide policies. These changes aim to generate extra revenue for essential programs while keeping taxes…

Labour leaders face a tough challenge on immigration policy in Scotland as Home Secretary Shabana Mahmood unveils major asylum changes amid rising concerns over border control. With Reform UK gaining ground ahead of the 2026 Scottish Parliament election, the party must balance national reforms with Scotland's economic reliance on migrants. Mahmood's Major Asylum Overhaul Shabana Mahmood announced sweeping reforms to the UK's asylum system on November 17, 2025, aiming to address what she called illegal migration tearing the country apart. These changes target long standing issues in how the government handles arrivals and settlements. The reforms include forcing those arriving…

Scotland beckons solo travelers this winter with its stunning snow-draped landscapes and quiet charm, especially in the Highlands, Edinburgh, and Isle of Skye. As of November 2025, with recent snowfall in Inverness and forecasts of colder weather ahead, adventurers can explore these spots safely by planning ahead and embracing the season's unique serenity. Winter's Unique Appeal for Solo Travelers Winter transforms Scotland into a peaceful haven for those traveling alone. Shorter days and frosty air create a sense of calm, allowing visitors to reflect while wandering through less crowded paths. Recent reports highlight how the first snow of the season…

Scotland has donated £600,000 to a United Nations humanitarian fund to aid the Occupied Palestinian Territories, where officials describe the contribution as a vital lifeline amid severe hardships. First Minister John Swinney announced the funding in September 2025 as part of efforts to tackle the ongoing crisis in Gaza, highlighting Scotland's commitment to international support. Announcement Details and Government Stance The Scottish Government made the donation to the UN Office for the Coordination of Humanitarian Affairs led fund, which coordinates aid efforts across the region. This move comes at a time when the humanitarian needs in Gaza remain dire, with…

Parts of Scotland woke up to the first snowfall of the season on Friday morning, November 14, 2025, with locals in Inverness sharing photos of a light dusting across the city. This early wintry blast, driven by a cold Arctic front sweeping through the Highlands, also affected areas like Ben Lomond and Lossiemouth, marking a sharp turn from the mild autumn weather that had seen temperatures climb to 18 degrees Celsius just weeks earlier. Areas Affected by the Snowfall The snow arrived quietly around 7 a.m. in Inverness, surprising residents who stepped out to find a thin layer blanketing cars…

Shetland islanders have accused Tom Daley's new Channel 4 knitting show Game of Wool of cultural appropriation after spotting major errors in its portrayal of their traditional Fair Isle craft. The backlash erupted right after the first episode aired on Sunday, leaving local knitters shocked and calling for an apology from the broadcaster to correct the misconceptions. The Show Sparks Outrage Among Local Crafters The program, titled Game of Wool: Britain's Best Knitter, features contestants competing in knitting challenges hosted by the Olympic diver and knitting enthusiast Tom Daley. It aims to highlight British knitting traditions, starting with the iconic…

Scotland's government kicks off the early release of nearly 1000 prisoners from overcrowded jails starting Tuesday. This move aims to fix a record high prison population of 8431 inmates, which exceeds the safe limit and risks staff and prisoner safety. The Growing Overcrowding Problem in Scottish Prisons Scottish prisons face severe strain after the inmate count hit 8431 last week, surpassing the operating capacity of 7805 by over 600 people. This marks the third emergency release scheme in less than two years, as previous efforts failed to curb the rise in numbers. Experts point to several factors driving this crisis.…

The Scottish Medicines Consortium has approved Procysbi for use in NHS Scotland to treat nephropathic cystinosis, a rare kidney disorder that strikes young children. This decision on November 10, 2025, brings new hope to families by offering a more convenient treatment option that could ease daily struggles. Understanding Nephropathic Cystinosis Nephropathic cystinosis is a genetic condition that causes cystine, an amino acid, to build up in the body's cells. This buildup damages organs, especially the kidneys, and often leads to kidney failure by age 10 if left untreated. Doctors diagnose it in infants through symptoms like excessive thirst, frequent urination,…

The Silver Ferns kicked off their 2025 Northern Tour with a solid 63-41 victory over Scotland in Glasgow on Sunday. New Zealand dominated the match from start to finish, winning every quarter and building a strong lead early on. This win marks the teams first test in Scotland since the 2014 Commonwealth Games. It sets a positive tone for the tour as the Ferns prepare for tougher battles ahead against top European rivals. Strong Start Signals Tour Momentum New Zealand arrived in Glasgow after a long flight and showed no signs of jet lag. The team controlled the court with…