Breaking News: Thumping victory for Kate Forbes in the Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch constituency as she takes almost three times the votes of the next placed candidate
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Kate Forbes has retained the Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch constituency for the SNP securing a massive majority for the popular Dingwall native.
She overcame determined campaigning by her rivals but ultimately secured almost three times as many votes as the next placed candidate.
Her tally increased from 17,362 in 2016 to 24,192, her nearest competitor was the Conservative candidate Jamie Halcro Johnston with 8331 followed by the Liberal Democrats Denis Rixson on 6778 and Labour’s John Erskiine on 3855.
Ms Forbes said: “First and foremost, I am grateful to the people of this constituency for their support. I never take a single vote for granted, and I am sincerely grateful for the trust placed in me by the people of Skye, Lochaber and Badenoch.
“As we begin to emerge from the Covid pandemic, I am under no illusion about the challenges ahead for the economy, health and education of the Highlands, and I will continue to work tirelessly for my constituents – just as I have done over the past five years. A lot has been achieved, but there's lots more to do.
“The lack of affordable housing has been well documented, it’s a common problem in all parts of my constituency, so it is something I want to give specific focus to.
“I also want to see vital infrastructure projects moving forwards as quickly as possible. The new Belford Hospital is long overdue, as are road safety improvements at the notorious Munlochy Junction.”
Ms Forbes also paid tribute to her political opponents, saying: “In a day where political exchanges on social media often generate more heat than light, I would like to thank the three opposition candidates, John Erskine, Jamie Halcro-Johnson and Denis Rixson, for their own good natured campaigns and contributions.
“I have always taken a constructive approach to political matters in the Highlands, and my door is always open to those wanting to make our region a better place to live, work and study.”
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