My initial hope for devolution, as it would be for a state of independence, was for a Scotland that differed from the UK primarily in its more ‘enlightened’ governance. By which I mean greater emphasis on evidence-based policies and the collection of information to allow for proper critical appraisal. In other words – less subjective, more objective, regardless of whether the … [Read more...] about Time to shake up Scotland
Health
Biggest increase in alcohol-related deaths for 20 years
Deaths from alcohol in 2020 were up almost 19% compared with the previous year, according to the latest figures published by the Office for National Statistics (ONS). In total, 8,974 deaths resulting from alcohol misuse were recorded in the UK in 2020. This is the largest single-year increase since the ONS started collecting this data in 2001. As in previous years, there were … [Read more...] about Biggest increase in alcohol-related deaths for 20 years
Covid, conspiracy theories and ‘truthpapers’
A consistent feature of the pandemic has been the presence of a relatively small but vocal number of conspiracy theorists who resist attempts to tackle COVID-19. Their views might seem marginal and extreme but recent research suggests that we should take them seriously. Survey data shows that belief in conspiracy theories is associated with a lack of confidence in steps aimed … [Read more...] about Covid, conspiracy theories and ‘truthpapers’
Regenerative farming could cut methane emissions
Food production will have to change to deliver the methane emissions reductions agreed at COP26. How will this work? Last week, I interviewed a “regenerative farmer” in Fife who may have some answers. Claire Pollock has a mixed farm of animals and arable - she doesn’t plough but sows cereal straight onto harvest stubble. Cows eat only grass or silage and they move around … [Read more...] about Regenerative farming could cut methane emissions
National Care Service: adequately funded?
It’s not every day that “the most significant public service reform since the creation of the National Health Service” comes along. Those words came from the First Minister’s speech at the launch of the Programme for Government (PfG) on 7 September. The scope of the National Care Service has got larger over time, with proposals currently out for consultation. There were some … [Read more...] about National Care Service: adequately funded?