As Scotland steps into 2025, Ian Murray reflects on the dramatic changes that have reshaped the nation, with hopes for a brighter future and a focus on rebuilding the country after a challenging past year.
A Year of Transformation
Looking back to Hogmanay 2024, the political landscape of Scotland and the UK was vastly different. Rishi Sunak was Prime Minister, and Humza Yousaf held the role of First Minister. Now, in 2025, both have moved on, and Scotland has undergone a significant transformation.
The summer of 2024 marked a turning point with the election of 36 new Scottish Labour MPs, who Murray describes as the voice of Scotland in government, finally having an impact rather than languishing in opposition. The Labour MPs are now working from within the government to represent Scotland’s interests, a stark contrast to the past.
Thank You to Constituents
In his New Year’s message, Ian Murray expressed his gratitude to the people of Edinburgh South for their support. Despite differing opinions, he vowed to continue working tirelessly to represent everyone in his constituency and to ensure that the needs of the community are met in 2025.
The Economic Challenges
The shift in leadership has already begun to pay dividends. In October, the UK Government’s budget brought the largest-ever settlement for the Scottish Government, a pivotal moment for the future of Scotland. Murray has been advocating for Scotland at the Cabinet table and has promoted Scottish excellence globally, including the launch of “Brand Scotland” in Southeast Asia.
However, Murray acknowledges that getting Scotland back on track will take time. The legacy of the Conservative government left behind a broken system: crumbling public services, reduced living standards, and a £22 billion deficit. These challenges have made it difficult, but necessary, for the Labour Government to make hard decisions in order to rebuild the country.
The SNP’s Struggles
While the UK Government has seen transformation, the Scottish National Party (SNP) continues to cling to power in Holyrood. Murray criticizes the SNP for its lack of vision, pointing out that despite the additional funding from the UK government, their budget announcement in December failed to address Scotland’s economic and public service needs. Their main proposal, lifting the two-child cap, was merely a policy paper with no funding attached.
Looking Ahead: Optimism for 2025
Despite these challenges, Murray remains hopeful for 2025. The Labour Government has already made strides, raising the minimum wage, protecting the pension Triple Lock, and improving worker and renter protections. The establishment of GB Energy in Scotland also marks a significant milestone.
Murray emphasizes that change will take time, and while the inherited issues are vast, progress is being made. With the continued efforts of Scottish Labour, 2025 is expected to be the year of delivering on promises and making real changes for Scotland’s future
