British Liberal Democrat MP for Orkney and Shetland; long-time parliamentarian and committee chair
The government has scrapped plans to pay coastguard rescue officers (CROs) on an expenses-only model, after unions and MPs warned the move would push volunteers away. Ministers say current arrangements will remain, with further engagement planned to understand how CROs can be recognised and rewarded.
Nigel Farage has triggered a by-election bid in Clacton while under a parliamentary standards investigation over a £5 million gift from a crypto billionaire. Major parties refuse to engage, leaving Count Binface as a key challenger. Polls show voters view the move as an attempt to dodge scrutiny rather than a genuine appeal to constituents.
Recent data shows over half of UK fish catch limits have exceeded scientific advice, risking long-term stock depletion. The Marine Conservation Society has downgraded UK-caught cod to the worst rating, urging consumers to avoid it. Oyster restoration projects are underway to rebuild ecosystems and sequester carbon, despite ongoing overfishing and declining fish populations.
Coastguard rescue officers have worker status, and the MCA plans to stop hourly pay in September to classify CROs as volunteers. MPs, unions, and coastguards are pushing for negotiations amid a growing political row.