The Highlands has so much going for it. But right now, it’s clear that things just aren’t working the way they should.
Everywhere I go across Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch, people tell me the same thing: their money isn’t going as far as it used to. Whether it’s filling the car, heating the house, or even just treating the kids or grandkids to a day out—it’s all becoming harder to afford.
That’s why tackling the cost-of-living crisis is one of my top priorities. And it needs practical, deliverable solutions—not just warm words.
I’m backing a plan that will make a real difference to household budgets here in the Highlands.
First, we need to bring down energy bills. That means a major emergency insulation programme—cutting waste, keeping homes warmer, and reducing what people pay every month. It’s one of the quickest ways to ease pressure on family finances.
At the same time, we need to make better use of the energy we produce right here in Scotland. We have huge renewable potential, but too often local communities see very little benefit. I want to change that. By rewriting the rules on community benefit, we can ensure that more of the money generated by renewable energy stays in the Highlands—supporting local people and local services.
Transport costs are another major pressure, especially in rural areas like ours where driving isn’t a luxury—it’s a necessity. That’s why I support an immediate 10p cut in fuel duty, helping to bring down prices at the pump and give some breathing space to households and local businesses.
And we also need to support jobs and local businesses properly. That means creating a stable, supportive environment for growth—no more sudden policy shifts that make it harder for businesses to invest, hire and succeed. It also means rebuilding our relationship with Europe, opening up opportunities for trade, tourism and jobs.
For me, this isn’t abstract politics. This is about the reality of life in the Highlands—where distances are longer, costs are higher, and too many decisions are made without understanding the impact on rural communities.
I’m not going to stand here and make promises that can’t be delivered. But I will promise this: I will fight every day for a fairer deal for people across Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch—and I will keep pushing for practical solutions that actually make a difference.
If that’s the kind of representation you’re looking for, I hope you’ll consider backing me in May.