Scottish Parliament Goes Real
25 February 2010
By Iain Loe
In the same month that CAMRA announced its first Scottish National chairman, it was appropriate that the Campaign should hold a reception in the Scottish Parliament in Edinburgh. The reception was hosted by Alasdair Morgan MSP (left) who gave a rousing welcome to fellow MSPs, researchers, Scottish brewers and CAMRA members pointing out the importance of the pub to Scottish life and the community. “The pub is the solution not the cause of problems caused by alcohol misuse and abuse” he said.
He congratulated CAMRA on the fine work it did saying it was the most successful consumer group in Western Europe. He also pointed out the growth of Scottish brewers in recent years from just a handful to almost 50 today. Lyndsay Grant (right), CAMRA's Director for Scotland and Northern Ireland, welcomed guests to the reception and said that despite CAMRA's rapid growth of membership there was still much to do in particular working to save Scottish pubs from closure.
MSPs at the reception were able to enjoy real ales provided by Fyne Ales, Harviestoun, Traditional Scottish Ales and Stewart Brewing; something they are unable to do at present in the Parliament bar that currently only serves keg products. A new challenge?