For those in peril...

It is a blustery day in Edinburgh but I suspect much wilder out in the west, with Force 9 gales forecast for tonight.

Appropriate then that the RNLI should be exhibiting in the Parliament this week (which is lifeboat week) encouraging us all to think about and support the vital service they provide 24/7 , and which is wholly underwritten by private donation.

In my own constituency there are countless demonstrations of their committment, courage and competence every year and indeed in Tobermory Sam Jones, a former Parliamentary clerk, is a member of the crew and won this year's RNLI photo competition.