Checking up on the work of all your Lothian list MSPs

Plus: Tory-turned-Independent Jeremy Balfour declares his plan for next May’s election

Last week, the Inquirer delved into the work and priorities of Edinburgh’s six constituency MSPs, picking out some of the contributions that our elected representatives have made to the masses of changes brought forward since they were elected in 2021.

This week, we have done the same for our seven regional MSPs; two conservative, two green, two labour and one (very recently) independent. Although regional MSPs are often thought of as “list politicians” for their lack of specific constituency, these seven Lothian MSPs have been just as busy as their peers, and in some cases have made bolder choices too. Take a look at last week’s article for some context on the happenings of Holyrood since 2021, and read on for the part our regional MSPs have played in it.

In speaking to us, one of our local representatives, Jeremy Balfour, who quit the Conservatives last month to become an Independent MSP, declared for the first time his plans for next May. His intentions have been the subject of much scrutiny, but he told us directly: “I hope to stand as an independent at next year's election."

We’re always grateful to the elected representatives, and their communications teams, who take the time in their busy schedules to answer our questions. Those MSPs who are not quoted in this article either did not reply, or refused our request for input.