Phil delivered his maiden speech in
Parliament on the 8th of July.
Phil highlighted the hardship that may
within Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill have faced for decades, noting “the
decades of neglect that our once heavily industrialised heartland has suffered…
It has been that way for decades, and we deserve better.”
However, he praised those living in the
area, stating “we most value is our people. Our people are resilient, honest
and resourceful.”
Phil recognised the mandate he and the
other SNP Members of Parliament have been given by the people of Scotland,
stating that “Scotland
has voted for anti-austerity; free education; an NHS protected from
privatisation… an anti-nuclear stance; and an inclusive, tolerant society that
has social and economic justice at its heart.”
He criticsed the additional cuts introduced
by the new Budget, stating “I fear for the wellbeing for many of my constituents and those of many
other Members. Dark times are indeed ahead, especially as these cuts will see
the further decimation of an already overstretched and struggling social
security system.”
Phil argued
that the right-wing neo-liberal policies introduced by successive established
parties in Westminster have led to “absolute despair.” However, he noted the
awakening to politics occurring in Scotland, and the hope the Scottish people
have in establishing a more progressive, fair society.
“In Scotland, although we are not without aspiration, it is with hope that we
look to the future for all those who live and work in Scotland. We, the 56,
have been sent south with a unique mandate to do our best by those who believe
more in hope for all than in material aspiration exclusively for the few.”