The positive side of lobbying

People hear and read a lot about the negative side of lobbying but there is a positive side too. Every week a charity or a not for profit organisation , supported by an MSP , sets up stall in the members lobby ( which is on the way into the chamber) so that Members of the Parliament can learn about important issues and talk to people who work tirelessly for vital causes.

Sometimes this experience allows helps members respond better to constituency cases : sometimes it leads to debates in the Parliament and sometimes it prompts ministers to consider new policy opportunities and needs.

Last week Women's Aid in Glasgow was with us. This week it was the turn of MASScott - Melanoma Action & Support Scotland.

I have met Leigh Smith (pictured here) the chair of the charity before but today she was able to update me on some of the new work they have been doing with schools.