An opportunity we can’t afford to miss - Ian Murray

Ian Murray with Scottish Labour leader Anas Sarwar, right, during a visit to the Harland & Wolff construction yard in Methil. Picture: Andrew Milligan/PA Wire

Scotland simply can’t afford to take that risk when we go to the polls today. Do not underestimate the electoral challenge it will take to oust the Tories – it will require a win of historic proportions by the Labour Party. Every single seat that Labour wins in Scotland will bring the removal van closer to Number 10 to pick up Sunak’s belongings.

It has been a privilege to represent the people of Edinburgh South for 14 years and I am asking residents to continue placing their trust in me to deliver for them. We also have some fantastic candidates in other Edinburgh seats.

In Edinburgh East and Musselburgh Chris Murray will work hard to sort out the problems getting GP appointments, is determined to get action on climate change, will safeguard Portobello Beach from sewage and will stand up for the cultural sector in the city.

In Edinburgh North and Leith our candidate Tracy Gilbert represents 37,000 workers through her trade union role – meaning she understands the issues that affect working families, and the transformational impact of Labour’s New Deal that will deliver a pay rise for 200,000 Scots. In Edinburgh South West, Councillor Scott Arthur has been a trailblazing and dedicated local councillor working hard to represent constituents – something he would continue to do in Westminster if elected as an MP. And right across the Lothian region we have other fantastic candidates who will put Scotland at the heart of the next government if voters give us the honour of serving.

We could be just a few hours away from witnessing Keir Starmer enter Downing Street as our new Prime Minister. Under his leadership, a Labour government will cut bills and create 69,000 green jobs in Scotland with a Green Prosperity Plan, including a new state-owned energy company, GB Energy. We will deliver a genuine living wage, ban exploitative zero hour contracts, end fire and rehire and strengthen day one workers’ rights with a New Deal for Working People.

We will increase funding for the NHS and education by cracking down on tax avoidance and closing non-dom loopholes. And we will grow the economy and create jobs with a National Wealth Fund and British Jobs Bonus.

This election is an opportunity for change that Scotland cannot afford to miss. With a simple cross next to the Scottish Labour candidate, we can elect a government in the service of working people. But it will only happen if people vote for it.

This election is a straight choice between a broken status quo with two bad governments, or change with Labour. The only way to make sure we remove the Conservatives and secure a better future for Scotland is to vote Scottish Labour. In the hours ahead, we can end the Tory nightmare and wake up to a brighter future. The power is now in your hands. That’s an opportunity we can’t afford to miss.

Ian Murray is Labour Candidate for Edinburgh South