Here is a multiple choice question: Where is Scotland’s first minister Humza Yousaf this week?
Is he: A) In Glasgow attempting to sort the city’s drug problem, B) In the Western Isles apologising for and rectifying the Ferry fiasco, C) In Aberdeen protecting Scotland’s crucial North Sea oil and gas sector, or D) In New York at a “Climate Ambition Summit” on the outskirts of the UN general assembly?
Correct! The answer is D. Yes, rather than actually addressing meaningful local issues, Yousaf is playing the noble martyr as a very small fish in a huge pond.
The UN General Assembly convened this week in New York City with many smaller break-out events also giving world leaders (of smaller countries) a chance to wax lyrical on the pressing issues of our time. It was also Climate Week in NYC and this was where Yousaf starred.
Scotland’s FM gave an extremely weighty speech on the perils of inaction on climate change.
“When you have a crisis, you have to act with urgency. The urgency that crisis demands.” The irony won’t be lost on any number Scottish islanders who have been waiting years for new ferries.
After elucidating the end of days and the “Global North’s” failure to act, Yousaf said: “We are collectively guilty of catastrophic negligence.” The brass neck is quite something.
But worry not hard-working Scots, we were the first country to give primary school pupils a “lesbian, gay, bisexual and transgender (LGBT) inclusive education across the school curriculum.” That’ll make up for the wild fires and floods.
Naturally, the first minister got his obligatory picture taken with climate steward and London mayor Sadiq Khan, and no doubt got his copy of Breathe signed. I’m surprised Chris Packham wasn’t invited; oh yes! He’s too busy breaking the law now.
In his absence, deputy first minister Shona Robison led FMQs.
Ahead of a “safe” drug consumption room pilot scheme launching in Glasgow, Yousaf also met with New York health chief Ashwin Vasan. I’m sure the use of heroin will decrease after it’s de facto legalised.
But anyway, saunter home when you feel like it Humza. Have a Katz’s pastrami on rye on The Hound.
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