WORKING FOR YOU An unreserved apology for my language

I want to begin my latest column by reiterating the apology I have made for language I used during a speech in Edinburgh on February 3, at a social event for Labour students.

At that Burns Supper I used words relating to the Chinese and LGBT communities which were offensive and completely wrong.

I have unreservedly apologised for the offence caused, and I do so here again; I made a mistake and I am sorry.

I want to make it very clear, in particular to the two communities concerned, it was never my intention to insult, offend or attack anyone.

I will do everything possible to make amends with both the Chinese community and the LGBT community.

I would also like to apologise to everyone in Coatbridge, Chryston and Bellshill for any embarrassment this has caused them and reassure you all that I am committed to the equality and diversity training I have now begun.

Within my work in the constituency I have recently met with senior management at the Viridor plant in Bargeddie to discuss a range of issues.

I raised concerns of residents that in the upcoming months, as the weather gets better, there is a fear that the fly infestation will return.

I welcomed the news that the plant has recently started work on a new state-of-theart recycling facility which includes a variety of measures to prevent flies escaping, such as pressure doors.

It was also great to hear that part of the work involves the creation of a hub which will be used for community outreach, so schools can be brought in and pupils taught about recycling, as well as workshops being run for small businesses free of charge.

A hard Brexit is becoming more and more likely as the weeks and months go on.

With Theresa May leading us off the edge of a cliff, we face a post-Brexit where imports are higher and the cost of living sky-rockets because the Tories seem determined on the hardest Brexit possible.

Labour also wants to help the next generation by ensuring that our students are still able to access the Erasmus programme to allow them to study abroad after we leave the EU.

Please note that I have changed my surgery details going forward and they will no longer be on the first Friday of the month.

I will write in to the Advertiser shortly with a full list of my surgeries.

In the meantime, should you wish to get in contact with my office, please call 01236 434565 or email hugh.gaffney.mp@ parliament.uk

I will do everything possible to make amends...I am committed to the equality and diversity training I’ve begun

Offensive speech The remarks I made were completely wrong