John Erskine

John Erskine

John Erskine

I am standing as Scottish Labour’s candidate for Shetland and on the Highlands and Islands regional list because this election is about the future of our communities – and after nearly 20 years, Scotland needs a new direction.

Shetland deserves an MSP who will focus relentlessly on delivery: stronger public services, a growing local economy, and communities that are properly connected and supported.

My priorities start with getting the basics right. That means ensuring our NHS is there when people need it, improving access to care, and supporting staff who are under real pressure.

It means investing in our schools so every young person in Shetland has the best possible start in life, with real opportunities to stay, work and build a future locally.

Economic opportunity is central to Shetland’s future. Our islands are at the heart of Scotland’s energy system, and we must make that work for local people. I support a balanced approach, backing oil and gas jobs that will remain vital for years to come, while accelerating investment in renewables and community energy. That means cutting planning delays, unlocking investment, and ensuring that the benefits of energy projects are felt directly in Shetland communities.

Connectivity is another key challenge. Reliable ferry services, better transport links and high-quality digital infrastructure are essential, not optional, for island life. I will push for the long-term investment needed to make connectivity work for Shetland, supporting local businesses and improving daily life.

We also need government to work better. Too often, progress is held back by unnecessary bureaucracy and slow decision-making. I will argue for practical reforms that streamline processes, reduce duplication and ensure that decisions are made faster and closer to the communities they affect.

I bring experience of how government and parliament operate, having worked at the heart of decision-making in and around the Scottish Parliament and alongside business and community organisations across Scotland. I know how to navigate the system and how to challenge it when it is not delivering.

But this election is not about politicians, it is about the future of Shetland. It is about ensuring that our islands are not overlooked, that investment reaches our communities, and that people have confidence in the services they rely on.

Scottish Labour is offering a fresh start: a focus on delivery, on fairness, and on building a stronger future for every part of Scotland.

That is what I am standing for and what I will work every day to achieve for Shetland.

Scottish Labour’s election manifesto can be read here.

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