
Our Local Hero Lisa Petrie. Today marked the official opening ceremony of the The Scottish Parliament session, following the election. Each MSP is encouraged to bring a Local Hero along to this. I was proud and privileged to nominate Lisa as my/our #LocalHero. What happened to her son John McNab was so horrific and shocked our community to the core. Since then, the courage Lisa has shown to turn her grief into positive action is genuinely remarkable. From campaigning to have bleed kits available in public places in emergencies to efforts weโre working on together to try to change the law, Lisaโs proactive response to her sonโs murder is truly inspirational.
It is a real honour to represent and support her.
๐๐ปโ๏ธ๐ #forever22 … See MoreSee Less
- Likes: 209
- Shares: 9
- Comments: 22
Truly deserved
Well done Lisa Petrie something you should not be having to do. Proud of you xxx
So Proud of you Lisa Petrie โค๏ธ xxx
Truly remarkable doesn't even begin to describe Lisa Petrie's courage . John will be so proud of the amazing work you do to help others. You truly are an inspiration. You deserve the award Lisa xx ๐๐๐พ๐ฅฐ๐๐๐๐
Well deserved ๐ฅฐ
So well deserved Lisa Petrie xx
Well deserved
Thank you so much for nominating me and allowing me to have this wonderful experience, I can’t thank you enough for all your hard work and support with everything and given my John and my self a voice Ben thank you โค๏ธ
Well done Ben, a perfect choice.
So proud of Lisa Petrieโค๏ธ
Very well deserved xxx
Ye done a guid thing there bud…
Any word on an explanation from the judge who bailed the animal that murdered John
Well done Lisa Petrie
๐๐๐
Well Deserved x
Ben are you asking any questions to Scottish Government about the Leith attacker being allowed out of prison early? Despite being a violent criminal? And also the previous contact he has had with Police around anti Muslim rhetoric and ideology? Are you asking questions around this?
youtu.be/Q6xOU_EObus The world is asking why are you silent, we will the Scottish government have an inquiry?
Nonces
From a friend of Scotland. This is some read! The Peter Murrell snp saga is about so much more than Mont Blanc pens and coffee machines. In October 2020 rumours start that the SNP are in financial difficulty after a blogger reveals that the SNP have just over £96,000 in the bank despite raising £666.953, ringfenced for Indy2. In March 2021 the top three SNP officials of the SNP Finance & Audit committee, Frank Ross, Allison Graham and Cynthia Guthrie resigned because they were "denied sight of the accounts." After these resignations and because of growing rumours re: the SNP finances, Sturgeon addresses the SNP Executive via a video call in March 2021, stating that "the party has never been in a stronger financial position than it is right now," and warns members to be careful what they say about the party's finances. At this time, Sturgeon, Murrell and Colin Beattie take on the duties of the Finance & Audit committee, overseeing and the signing off of the accounts. However, in May 2021, Douglas Chapman, SNP National Treasurer also resigns, stating he couldn't do his job due to a lack of financial information. You'd think after the resignation of the SNP Finance & Audit committee and the National Treasurer Douglas Chapman, both of whom cited the lack of financial information as the reason for their resignations that Sturgeon as Chief Executive and as she had sight of the accounts would think that there's a problem with SNP finances and that there was over £600,000 missing from the accounts. However, she didn't. Alarm bells also were silent when in June 2021 when due to a cash flow problem, Murrell loaned the SNP £107,620. This is money Murrell stole from the SNP, loaned back to them and then was paid back to him with interest, you couldn't make it up. It's totally unbelievable that after the accountancy firm, Johnston Carmichael resigned in September 2022 as SNP auditors, that Sturgeon still didn't think there was issues with the SNP accounts. This firm had been the SNP accountants for over 10 years and was now refusing to 'touch their books.' After this resignation the SNP had problems finding an accountancy firm in Scotland to audit their accounts, no one would touch them. Eventually in May 2023, an English firm, AMS Accountants Group became auditors to the SNP. AMS did submit the SNP accounts with a qualification that there was missing paperwork relating to cash and cheque donations. The SNP said this was just down to "administrative processes" and there was "no suggestion of misappropriation of funds". When I use the term "the SNP," I mean Sturgeon as Chief Executive. She mirco-managed the party and would have been well aware of financial irregularities in the accounts as far back as 2020, if not before, but particularly after the resignations of the Finance & Audit committee, the National Treasurer and Johnston Carmichael Auditors. As for Sturgeon, she is now claiming she knew nothing about the irregularities with the party's finances. She never knew about the campervan sitting on her MiL drive, which beggars the question, why didn't she park on the drive while visiting her MiL on various occasions? Sturgeon was very quick to publicly claim that she had "fully cooperated" with police officers of Operation Branchform. Only later it was revealed that during eight hours of questioning by the police, Sturgeon answered every question with "no comment." Sturgeon did later submit a statement to the Branchform inquiry, however she was never questioned on the contents of that statement. Sturgeon is now claiming she is being vilified because of her husbands crimes and her gender. She also has the audacity to suggest that she is a victim of this deceit. It was Sturgeon as Chief Executive who had access to the accounts. It was Sturgeon who shut down people's concerns regarding the party's finances. It was Sturgeon who fostered an environment of secrecy and mismanagement. Sturgeon is guilty of a gross dereliction of duty and this is what she is being "vilified" for. There needs to be a public inquiry into questions the police couldn't ask. Questions of how was this allowed to happen, the true extent of the theft, (Murrell admitted to stealing £400,000 although over £600,000 was missing, £200,000 is still unaccounted for) and how to prevent it happening again? If Swinney doesn't allow a public inquiry this could be construed as a cover-up and a continuation of the secrecy and mismanagement of Sturgeon.
Were your fingers crossed you twat
Unfortunately, I cannot attend this tomorrow as it clashes with the official opening of this session of The Scottish Parliament, which is happening at the same time and I must attend – I wish Stand Up To Racism – Edinburgh and all taking part well, as together we amplify unity, hope and solidarity.โค๏ธ Iโll be with you in spirit!โจ Persevere.โ๏ธ … See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Message from the office of Ben Macpherson MSP:
Ben will be hosting his regular drop-in help and advice surgeries tomorrow 26th June 2026 at Out of the Blue Drill Hall from 11:00, and then at Leith Library from 3:30pm.
The surgeries are open to all constituents in Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith and no appointment is necessary. The surgeries usually last an hour, and Ben will see everyone who comes along.
The Out of the Blue Drill Hall
Leith Library
Leith Central Community Council
Leith Harbour & Newhaven Community Council … See MoreSee Less
That will be a wasted trip there then. !!!
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
3 days ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
4 days ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.On Friday I was at Edinburgh Annandale Mosque to catch up with the congregation. Shockingly and horrifically, that night the awful attack happened in our area. Today I was back at the mosque with FM John Swinney to reemphasise our solidarity with our Scottish Muslim community at this difficult time. I am here for everyone in our constituency – as, with love and in unity, we stand up to those who seek to sow division and engage in hate. Together we are stronger, together #WeAreScotland. ๐ด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ณ๓ ฃ๓ ด๓ ฟโจโค๏ธ … See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Really Appreciated…#WeAreScotland
๐ซก I appreciate your dedication to unity and solidarity with the Scottish Muslim community during this difficult time, it truly shows your character
Thank you, Ben for supporting the Muslim communities in Edinburgh and your vision to model Edinburgh as a intercultural city
Wot a load of crap
I'm relieved and pleased that Marionville Fire Station will be saved, thanks to a decision by the Scottish Fire and Rescue Serviceโs board. Along with many others, I have advocated strongly and passionately for a fire station to be maintained at Marionville to meet current demands and future needs, and to keep response times as short as possible in a local emergency. Recent fires on Arthur's Seat and at Sleigh Drive have again underlined the importance of where Marionville station is located, how brave and effective the fire officers based there are, and why this local asset must be retained. I pay tribute to everyone involved in the campaign to save the station, and we will keep making the case for investment in it to secure its future.
Thank you FBU East of Scotland, Living Rent Edinburgh, Craigentinny Meadowbank Community Council, Northfield and Willowbrae Community Council and everyone else whoโs engaged with me about this issue and campaigned constructively to save the station. We persevere. … See MoreSee Less
Great news Welldone
Good news, my dad Douglas Macpherson was stationed there many years ago ๐
Im fairly sure it was all the members of the public who took time out to campaign, put up fliers etc & its them that should be praised but yeah you take the glory ๐ค. Tell me exactly what you done to support this!. Im so glad that the firestation will stay open but it needs continous support from yourself to ensure the same thing doesn't happen a year from now
Will you please get soft play area foot leith sorted the weeds are horrendous absolutely disgrace
amazing news ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ
Brilliant news ๐๐๐
Brilliant news
Excellent , thank you ๐
Brilliant news.
Great outcome from the meeting today re Marionville Fire Station . The next step must be a new build on the same property just like Liberton . Hopefully this happens ๐๐
Thank you, thank you to everyone involved in the campaign to save Marionville. ๐๐ป๐๐
Thank goodness – well done everybody, and thanks for your support Ben! Now – can you get the Scottish Government to fund the SFRS properly?
The fact that the fight had to be fought is mindboggling, but very good news.
I’m overjoyed with this news. I’ve been supporting this station as an emergency services supporter, I’m a photographer and videographer and I’m glad they are staying open as they are the closest to Arthur seat.
Oh I love this
But for how long?
So glad to hear this ๐
Still missing two pumps and a height in Fife. ๐ค
Great news ๐๐ผ๐๐ผ
Marionville ๐ update! new houses ๐ new college campus ๐ฉ๐
Wonderful news. No time for nitpicking, just celebrate.
๐ ๐๐ป๐๐ป๐๐ป
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
6 days ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Photos from Pulse of the Place's post … See MoreSee Less
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
7 days ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.MI5 stirring up your establishment agenda?
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
1 week ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Ben please let me know if anything is being organised to allow the community to express their outrage at these attacks.
There are a lot of posts that cover this incident. The whole thing is tragic, the attacks on innocent people andthe context that leads an individual to believe attacking people is the right thing to do. What is also really scary is the number of comments on some posts that back the attacker. What happened to our shared humanity? Politics of division has no winners and yet… This kind of politics will be defeated and strong statements from leaders will help pave the way. Thank you for sharing.
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
1 week ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith is at Leith Walk.
1 week ago
Diversity + Love + Unity = #leith. #commonhumanity โค๏ธ#onescotland ๐ด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ณ๓ ฃ๓ ด๓ ฟ #persevere โ๏ธ … See MoreSee Less
Well said Ben, you would be made welcome at Leith Baptist Churc, Madeira St too. โค๏ธ๐
Very well said young man. However, it's the SNP that created a lawless Scotland. Think about that.
Don't think it was mate
Hmmm I think I can smell ๐ฉ
I have been in Scotland being a settled person speaking perfect Scottish having more Scottish friends than others. I believe and am proud to say that Scottish folk are kind. These negative elements in any society do not represent the actual face of it. I have witnessed Scottish people come forward against racism & hate crime before and look at this video. Scotland is pure Love & Beauty. Continue being Scottish guys ๐๐ผ
Never heard you saying you went to church if you have when and where?
Definitely not a terror attack!!
Ask the guy why he went nuts
Why did you not do the same video in March when it was the other way round
Well said Ben. The Leith community knows how to come together when its needed
Love with the Police tape right behind you๐
Nice words But Its SNP who Has problem to support and empower Police in laws, tools and People …So situations like this wouldn't take place in the first place… Its SNP whos waiting for people to get hurt first to change whole bunch of laws that block police from chaseing balaclava thughs on bikes ETC… there's no prevention on crime in scotland there's only reaction to it… and as you can see Its Too late for many people who got hurt alredy.. SNP will say few nice words but hey lets see hum much more society can handle…
People are waking up
Wonderful words , great work Ben , please keep this good work up , you got our full support, together we can defeat the hate preachers , Scotland is not racist and have no place for ๏ฟผ racism . ๏ฟผ
How about the 12 year old that Swinney accused, never heard you speak up then
I agree we should be united not divided but this is not a new thing and it works both ways. 22 years ago, I was crossing the road with my disabled mum at Elm row when an Asian guy reversed at us deliberately at high speed and nearly took us both out. I hit his car with my fist and he then jumped out, threatened me and told me to F off back to where I came from. Portobello? I answered. I reported it and he was well known to the police for attacking white women. It does happen the other way too but rarely reported the police told me. Hate breeds hate, wish we could all just respect each other and be kind but sadly it’s not always the case.
Unity feels in short supply.
And he never mentioned independence.
Nice to see police scotland doi g their job but itbworks both ways. Dont see them rushing out to protect the rest of us. Its no wonder people are getting pissed off.
This 'diversity ' eutopia isn't really working to plan is it
Do you come from leith cause I do I live here work in the community in leith walk and guess what I feel safe I will go to my work tomorrow as u did yesterday and will do today either take care of them selfs and each other even MR sing has a place in the leith heart so jog on mate
Has the SNP dropped the independence referendum.
I support you and SNP 100%
That’s excellent Ben!!! So eloquent… and you said it all!!! ๐๐
Very well said, Ben
What happened last night in our community (and elsewhere in the city) was incredibly concerning. Thank you to Police Scotland Edinburgh for their rapid and robust response. My thoughts are with those hurt and affected by this horrific situation. We will not let hate, discrimination and violence divide us! I will have more to say about this soon. Please report any information you may have to the police: www.scotland.police.uk/. … See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
1 week ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.As the constituency MSP, I'm very glad to see that it looks likely that Marionville Fire Station will be saved, and I will be relieved if and when this is confirmed by the SFRS board on Monday. Along with many others, I have advocated strongly and passionately for a fire station to be maintained at Marionville to meet current demands and future needs, and to keep response times as short as possible in a local emergency. Recent fires on Arthur's Seat and at Sleigh Drive have again underlined the importance of where Marionville station is located, how brave and effective the fire officers based there are, and why this local asset must be retained. I pay tribute to everyone involved in the campaign to save the station, and we will keep making the case for it to secure itsEdinburgh Evening Newsening News: www.edinburghnews.scotsman.com/news/edinburghs-marionville-fire-station-saved-from-closure-at-lea…Scottish Fire and Rescue Serviceue Service: www.firescotland.gov.uk/news/sfrs-board-to-consider-service-delivery-review-recommenCraigentinny Meadowbank Community CounciltNorthfield and Willowbrae Community Councilty Council … See MoreSee Less
Brilliant news. Marionville serves such a built up area of Edinburgh it would be mad to close it down.
The problem with emergency services is you can say "they only handled X call outs last year, we can cope with that using resources elsewhere", which works, until the day, the incident, when it doesn't work. Then you realise, "oh wait, we could really have done with extra people, extra equipment", but by then it's too late. Lives have been lost, lives that could have been saved, if you hadn't cut the people or equipment……. You need reserves, you need spares, hoping you never do need them, but you must have them for that day they are needed
Well done
They need to keep this station open especially after the building fire on the Lochend Road/Sleigh Drive a couple of weeks ago.
Fantastic news! Thank you
Brilliant!!
Its a great outcome!
Great news.
๐๐๐
Sadly another oneset to close, need a march from frire station to firestation raising funds for firefighters/for the work involved but also direct action by firefighters in protest.
Great news xx
Well done
well done
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
2 weeks ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Good to be Leith Festival Gala Day (forgot to take a photo though) – great to catch up with so many folk and thanks to all the volunteers, participants and organisers.๐๐ปโค๏ธโ๏ธ … See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Good to attend Leith Walk Primary Schoolโs summer fair yesterday, as part of their 150th celebrations. Thanks to all involved.
Friends of Leith Walk Primary School … See MoreSee Less
I did my teaching practice there in 1965.
Thank you very much to all the emergency services who have been responding to this fire – if youโve been affected by the incident then please let me know if I can be of assistance in the period ahead. … See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Another reason to fight to keep Marionville station.
Yes please, can you chase Scottish Water as to why the fire hydrant at the top of Restalrig Square, EH7 6EZ was NOT working Firemen were delayed by 20/30mins from tackling this fire They had to run their hoses from Sleigh Drive all the way to Restalrig Crescent
Help and advice surgeries today at Craigentinny Community Centre and Piershill Library – Iโll be doing these on the first Friday of the month going forward. No appointment necessary.
Local | Experienced | Reliable … See MoreSee Less
the library at the front could do with a lick of paint and the front tidied up – K
graffiti and tag removal as well – k
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
3 weeks ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Message from the office of Ben Macpherson MSP:
Ben will be hosting his regular drop-in help and advice surgeries tomorrow 5th June 2026 at Craigentinny Community Centre from 2pm, and then at Piershill Library from 3:30pm.
The surgeries are open to all constituents in Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith and no appointment is necessary. The surgeries usually last an hour, and Ben will see everyone who comes along.
Craigentinny Meadowbank Community Council
Northfield and Willowbrae Community Council … See MoreSee Less
Weโre so pleased to have Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith, Minister for Innovation, Technology and Tertiary Education with us this evening to celebrate the #YLSAwards!
Weโre grateful for his continued support for Scotlandโs youth work sector, and for the recognition heโs given to the vital role youth work plays in young peopleโs lives, learning, wellbeing and communities ๐ … See MoreSee Less
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith is at Marionville Fire Station.
4 weeks ago
In my capacity as the constituency MSP, today Iโve written to the Scottish Government again reiterating my strong view – along with many local people – that a fire station should be maintained at Marionville.๐ The fire last week on Arthurโs Seat recently emphasised this.๐ฅ … See MoreSee Less
For clarify, this was filmed a few months ago which is why I have several jackets on! But the arguments are as true now as they were then.
You need it there is a care home just along the road from there
Well said
Well said .There is a campain to save this station on going .Hopefully the powers that be take head bto what the people are saying !!!!
Well done lad
Well done you
In light of fires through wilful ignorance, the ongoing issue with disposable barbecues and arson, I cannot understand why this should even be an issue. Thank you for fighting fires.
The problem is, this fire station might not make a huge difference today. It might not make a huge difference tomorrow. But what about the next day? You only realise you don't have enough assets, enough fire stations, enough fire vehicles, enough fire fighters when something goes seriously wrong, and then it's too late.
Glad you on it! With the amount of anti-social behaviour escalating as well as global warming/general crime and gangland related crime we need our fireservices more thanever. I haven't seen or heard a valid reason for trying to cut fire services, only that the fire station(s) no longer meet required standards, in which case start building new ones before closing old ones so thefes no gaps betwedn services or we will end up wih a catastrophe on our hands and not enough if any fire fighters/appliances to attend.
I might be wrong but is it not the closest fire station to the two largest hospitals in Edinburgh
Perfectly said Ben
Let them take it away. Then the fires that do start in this area will spread harder and faster, fires are more regular in this area now
No emergency services should be messed with , police fireman and ambulances etc
โค๏ธ
THE Campervan could pay for it.
Who cut funding? Oh yeah, the SNP. ๐
Public holiday for reaching the last 48 of the World Cup costing millions. Money should have been spent elsewhere.
Will you please get the weeds so overgrown sorted out and litter picks done more at the soft play and Foot Leith Walk Absolutely disgrace
If your govt. Hadn't taken the Fire service away from local govt. ,and handed it over to a quango and cut it's budget., then it wouldn't be in this position .Blame lies fairly and squarely with the SNP govt.
Another useless entity.
Are your bosses going to take any notice. The same goes for all the others they want to close down. Funding cuts to pay for all the freebies….
Is not the SNP who have deciamted our fire and police services
And snp cut funding to fire services
Sturgeons house is burning down.. I hear…. The House of Sturgeon’s burning down KENNY MacASKILL looks at the depth of the corruption tolerated within the Scottish National Party and the efforts to keep it from public scrutiny Nicola Sturgeon with Peter Murrell as they cast their votes in the 2019 General Election at Broomhouse Park Community Hall in Glasgow Kenny MacAskill PETER MURRELL’S embezzlement is but a symptom of the wider disease of Sturgeonism. It’ll be him alone when sentenced at the High Court but in the court of public opinion his former boss and spouse, Nicola Sturgeon, also stands accused. It’s only the start of wider investigations into both this fraud and other actions by her and her acolytes. The House of Sturgeon’s burning down, and the flames are now licking at John Swinney’s new abode in Bute House. Murrell’s sentence will be severe not just for the amount taken but the breach of trust. After all a postie can face jail if they even just fail to deliver mail. Blame for the fraud rests only with him even if many wonder why neither Sturgeon nor the party treasurer were not on the indictment at least until his plea of guilty was finally tendered. It certainly was standard practice, and I write that as a former defence agent of 20 years never mind justice secretary for seven-and-a-half years. Why that was not done only the Crown Office can answer. There’s no doubt he fiddled figures and perhaps even falsified documents, but organisations have in-built safeguards, and the SNP was no different. I also served as SNP national treasurer for several years in the 1990s. For sure it was a different world then with the party far smaller and a financial position of carrying a six-figure overdraft. IT and cash room systems have also morphed. No more the cashroom assistant getting a taxi to my office for me to sign the staff’s wages. But those in charge whether the national treasurer, the party leader or the NEC all had and have powers and oversight. Duties, it should be said, not just powers. Those failures are down to Sturgeonism. Control freakery, autocracy and self-obsession rather than the cause or even the interests of members. That the chief executive of a party, let alone the government party, was the spouse of the party leader and first minister was not just absurd but plain wrong, even a bowling club wouldn’t have the chief steward married to the president. But Sturgeon insisted on it. Why, only she can explain. When individuals including one national treasurer sought to dig deep, they were blocked by Murrell and chastised by Sturgeon. There were no issues, she assured all, accusations were deeply damaging — and worse still, individuals were turned on and hounded out by her and her team. I recall phoning the then national treasurer when suspicions first broke in the press. He assured me that the “money was threaded through the accounts.” A ludicrous phrase and unknown in even basic accountancy rules. Of course, that’s not in any way indicative of any guilt or involvement in the crime of embezzlement. That national treasurer simply stands as a patsy and a fool. But both that and the extensive wider circumstances certainly see Sturgeon accused of an abuse of power and a manipulation of party and other levers available to her. Why Murrell took the money we’ll probably never really know. Perhaps, a sense of entitlement as salary increases or even payments were forgone as party funds were down. There was a previous issue with funds when he worked for Alex Salmond in Peterhead but that was dealt with internally and saw him moved on. His appointment as SNP CEO was made by Swinney. He was never a pal, but he was very efficient at his job. I, like most, never queried it viewing the past issue as a minor indiscretion rather than the first sign of kleptomania. But I’ve met wicked and depraved people over my career and he wasn’t one. I’ve known him and Sturgeon for almost 40 years and was even at their wedding. What I do recall is his joy at hooking up with her. He might cruelly be described as wee bald and paunchy which is why some of the items purchased through those embezzled funds sure weren’t for his own use. He felt he’d punched well above his weight in marrying her and she was his princess. He’d do anything for her and so history seems to show. I recall Salmond was irked that funds were kept back in the last few weeks of the referendum campaign rather than spending every last penny. But paying for the Glasgow hydro and other rock star type events for his beloved as she succeeded to the top posts had to be provided for. In some ways I feel sorry for him though he has to pay the price for his sins. But while he’s rotting in prison, she’ll be away gallivanting though not in the EU or UN positions that so many seemed to think were bound to come her way. Instead she’s now rightly being scrutinised and even ridiculed. There’s nothing worse than being laughed at and social media is cruel. After all she was “the selfie queen” unable to walk past a lamppost without stopping for a picture. Now she’s running from the press and their questions. Her reputation was largely made by Covid where her undoubted communications skills were to the fore and compared favourably with the bumbling Boris. But now she’s shown to have spent hours in a police station refusing to comment. For sure that’s the advice I’d have given to a client, but she was a former first minister who promised candour and openness. The focus now turns to her tenure and in particular her actions in Salmond’s prosecution. I’ve always said there was a conspiracy and that is given credence by this. What Jeremy Corbyn endured was dreadful, but what Salmond suffered was criminal. The truth will out and Swinney who has been covering for her is now coming into the frame on both the Salmond case and the wider Sturgeon legacy. Murrell will be sentenced soon and his prison door clang shut. But the exposure of Sturgeon’s sins are just beginning. Kenny MacAskill was an SNP MSP from 1999-2016 and Scottish justice secretary from 2007-14. He was MP for East Lothian from 2019-24.
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith is at Leith Library.
4 weeks ago
First โhelp & advice surgeryโ today since the election – thanks to all constituents who attended. Next week Iโll be in Piershill/Northfield and Craigentinny/Lochend (details will be published here soon). … See MoreSee Less
Good man
SNP getting it done โ
You are brilliant Ben. You stick to your word and get results. You are the best in the SNP. The rest of them could do with copying you and get things done.
Are you going to do anything about the eyesore T in leith library thats has been leaning to one side forever , I feel this is a terrible sight and creates a terrible image for all the cruise passengers visiting the area .
What will you do when Scotlandistan is an Islamic state? No long noo….
Thank you
Who can possibly trust this party now ? Sturgeon didn’t know ? She didn’t ask her husband where the money for a 125k campervan came from , a 5 grand pen , another 5 grand pen. What a lot of utter shite . Your all corrupt liars and look at you standing in your Gap cream chinos trying to convince us your not. . Your party is corrupt , harbours a cult of secrecy and not being allowed to challenge it . Shameful . A disgrace .
Bagging the No.1 devolutionist spot… How's the claim for more devo powers from Westminster getting on?? Independence candidate my fking arse. By way your my MSP, ill be booking a visit for progress on independence… b
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
4 weeks ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
1 month ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Message from the office of Ben Macpherson MSP:
Ben will be hosting a drop-in help and advice surgery tomorrow 29th May 2026 at Leith Library from 15:30.
The surgery is open to all constituents in Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith and no appointment is necessary. … See MoreSee Less
From 15:30 until? It's a key question for people working Fridays
First-time buyers offered up to ยฃ10,000 interest-free loans from next month. The First Homes Fund will be available for properties worth up to ยฃ300,000.
Under the scheme, the government will take an equity share in the property, typically to be repaid upon its sale. There will be no monthly payments or interest charges.
… See MoreSee Less

Scottish first-time buyers offered up to £10,000 interest-free loans
www.bbc.co.uk
The Scottish government has launched the First Homes Fund for those looking to get on the property ladder.Taxi outing is now happening. Thank you to all constituents who contacted me about this. Thank you also to Police Scotland Edinburgh for their constructive engagement with my office, and others, and working to support this meaningful event for our city and communities. … See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
1 month ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
1 month ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.That’s Nicola Burning Peter’s Money
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
1 month ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.As well as working hard for our area as a local MSP, I feel grateful, proud and energised to have been asked this week by the First Minister to continue serving all people in Scotland on skills, opportunities and change, as Minister for Innovation, Technology and Tertiary Education โ continuing collaborative work on enhancing and adapting our remarkably strong tertiary system (apprenticeships, colleges, universities and lifelong learning) as well as now also assisting with driving to support further development and implementation of innovation and technology to improve lives, and make sure we are giving young people opportunities to start their careers, older people help to re-train and up-skill, and use new tools and creativity to improve services and economic competitiveness. As well as supporting genuinely world leading research, invention and academia. Together we face big challenges and must get ready for how the next phases of Artificial Intelligence could impact so much, as it evolves at a rapid rate, and to try to utilise it fairly, beneficially and ethically, to realise positive impacts and avoid negative consequences. With the powers we have in Scotland, we must prepare and be agile to make sure weโre pro-active as well as responsive. Iโm looking forward to engaging with everyone involved in these areas, in education, business and public sector delivery. … See MoreSee Less
Congratulations and well deserved!
Congratulations ๐
That’s quite the role combined! Best wishes. ๐๐ป
Great news! Congratulations Ben!
Excellent news best man from the job ๐
Very pleased for you. โบ๏ธ Good call JS! ๐
Great job Ben. Congratulations.
Congratulations Ben .
Brilliant.
naebody in Leith knows what tertiary means. i'm no fae Leith and i'm no sure either.
Best wishes Ben!
Congratulations mate, good effort! ๐
Well done Ben
Congrats Ben, great news
Congratulations, Ben!
Congratulations Ben
Well done x
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith can you send me a message please๐ค๐ด๓ ง๓ ข๓ ณ๓ ฃ๓ ด๓ ฟ
Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
1 month ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
1 month ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith updated their status.
1 month ago
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Ben Macpherson SNP for Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith is at Scottish Parliament Building.
1 month ago
Felt very grateful, proud and privileged to be sworn in as the MSP for our area of Edinburgh North Eastern and Leith, and for my third session in The Scottish Parliament. Thank you again for this honour and responsibility, to represent our area and serve the common good and the people of Scotland. … See MoreSee Less
Nowt t do with the dough then ?????
Well done ๐xx
Awesome xx awe the best xx ๐
Congratulations my man! ๐๐พ
๐๐ ๐๐
๐๐ป
๐๐๐๐
๐๐๐๐๐ ๐
Imagine having to pledge allegiance to that repulsive family.๐คฎ
#DownWithTheCrown .. I hated hear that bumf…
Wishing all the best in the years to come but frustrating that you have to swear allegiance to Charles Windsor, and not to the people of Scotland.
For awareness, if youโd like to go. … See MoreSee Less
This content isn't available at the moment
When this happens, it’s usually because the owner only shared it with a small group of people, changed who can see it, or it’s been deleted.Thank you very much! Everyone is welcome to attend.