Over 100 drug finds in Perth Prison in 2009

Figures have been released that show there has been 127 drug finds in Perth Prison during 2009 so far. The number of finds has been decreasing in recent years, going down from over 200 in 2005 right up until now. Mid-Scotland and Fife Conservative MSP Murdo Fraser has welcomed the drop but still feels that just one incident of drugs being found in prison is one too many. Mr Fraser is now calling for tighter controls to stop drugs getting to Perth Prison inmates.

Companies encouraged to get protected name status

The Scottish Government is running a conference on Protected Food Names at Perth Racecourse tomorrow. Perth Politician and Scotland's Environment Minister Roseanna Cunningham will be attending, with her keynote address including the message that greater protection is needed for iconic Scottish produce. The event highlights the benefits of achieving protected name status which provides legal protection from imitation at European level. It is widely recognised as a sign of true quality and has helped increase export sales. Ahead of tomorrow's address Ms Cunningham has said too few Scottish brands have protected name status, and Scottish companies deserve to have their reputations protected.

Personal safety alarms launched in Perthshire

Tayside Police today became the first Scottish Force to offer personal safety alarms to victims of domestic abuse. The alarms are being rolled out in Perth and Kinross for a six month pilot project with the hope it will protect those victims who are deemed to be at the highest risk of harm from domestic abuse. The lightweight hi-tech device, which incorporates the latest GPS technology, will help the emergency services to react quickly to people who are in danger and locate them wherever they are. The devices have been used in England and Wales, but this will be a first for Scotland.