Member for Midlothian since 2001. Committees: Member, Work and Pensions Select Committee, Scottish Affairs Select Committee, Procedures Select Committee, Broadcasting Select Committee. Political career: Councillor, Midlothian Council 1995-2001; various positions within Midlothian Labour Party. Special political interests: Energy, biotechnology, economic development, transport. Education: Dalkeith High School. Affiliations: NUM Scotland Area, Co-operative Society. Hobbies: Cinema, films, grandchildren.
b. 24 October 1950, Dalkeith, Midlothian. Married with two children and five grandchildren.

2005				2001
LAB HOLD	Votes	%	+/- %	Votes	%
Labour	17,153	45.5	-	15,145	52.7
Lib Dem	9,888	26.2	-	3,686	12.8
SNP	6,400	17.0	-	6,131	21.3
Conservative	3,537	9.4	-	2,748	9.6
Scot Soc	726	1.9	-	837	2.9
ProLife Alliance	-	-	-	177	0.6
Majority	7,265	19.3	-	9,014	31.4
Turnout	37,704	62.2	-	28,724	59.1