John Erskine to Fight for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross

6th May 2014

John Erskine has been selected to contest the 2015 general election for the Labour Party in Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross.

John was selected on Saturday (3 May 2014) at a meeting of the local Labour Party in Helmsdale. Despite two other applicants, John was selected unanimously by local members. Commenting on his selection, John Erskine said:

“I am delighted to have been chosen to fight for Caithness, Sutherland and Easter Ross.”

“For too long local people have been without a strong voice at the UK Parliament. We saw this first hand when we missed out the fuel discount scheme. I want to provide local people with that voice to ensure we do not miss out on anything that will help tackle the cost of living crisis that is hurting so many local families. I want to be part of a Government that freezes gas and electricity bills, that promotes the living wage and scraps the vile bedroom tax. I want to build a local economy that ensures our young people stay in the region, not move miles away from their family and friends.”

“The year ahead is an historic one as Scotland decides if we want to separate from the rest of the UK or if we are stronger together. The local Labour Party and I are committed to making a positive case for the Union. We will make the case that we can improve everyone's lives no matter what side of the border they live on. The Labour Party has done it before and we will do it again.”

Chair of the Caithness and Sutherland Area Committee,Councillor Deirdre Mackay said:“That John was selected unanimously speaks volumes. We realise that John has the passion and skills needed to help our region.

“Ours is now the largest constituency in the land, a vast area with diverse and challenging needs. Local to the constituency, John well understands that local issues differ widely among the three parts that make up the constituency but he knows that the cost of living crisis affects us all no matter where we live. As well as practical skills and knowledge of the area John is an engaging person who empathises and relates well with people, qualities which are invaluable for this role. I have already worked with John on a number of local issues and I look forward to working him when he is the MP for our area.”