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My work in parliament
Gemma’s interests include Employment, Energy policy, Defence policy and regeneration. She also takes a keen interest in benefits and pension issues.
Gemma made her maiden speech on 7th June 2010 in which she highlighted the stunning scenery of Loch Lomond, the fascinating history of Dumbarton, the proud industrial past of Clydebank and the community spirit of all the areas in the Vale of Leven.
Gemma is a Shadow Defence Minister, with specific responsibility for defence personnel, welfare and veterans. She was appointed to the role by Ed Miliband shortly after he was elected as the new leader of the Labour Party. Gemma holds the Government to account on the decisions they make on delivering help and support to our servicemen and women, armed forces veterans and their families. She successfully campaigned alongside the Royal British Legion to force the Government to table plans to enshrine the principles of the military covenant- the contract between the state, the people and our armed forces- in law. And with thousands of jobs in and around West Dunbartonshire dependent on the defence sector, which is at risk from Tory cuts, Gemma uses her shadow defence role to stand up for local defence jobs.
Before being appointed as a shadow minister, Gemma was a member of the Energy and Climate Change Select Committee, where she raised issues regarding the future security of energy supply and fuel poverty.